We exist to help children in need.
Why did we start this foundation?
Based in USA and Ghana, Sankofa Roots Foundation is a non-profit organization co-founded by William and Kathleen Forson, natives of Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago respectively. The organization was established with a deep commitment to reconnect communities to their cultural heritage while addressing pressing social challenges. Inspired by the African philosophy of “Sankofa”—which emphasizes learning from the past to build a better future—the Foundation was formed to serve as a bridge between tradition and modern development. Founded through the initiative and support of dedicated individuals and community leaders, the organization seeks to uplift underserved populations, particularly in Ghana, by promoting education, empowerment, and sustainable community growth.
Since its inception, the Foundation has made meaningful strides in laying a strong foundation for impactful work. Key achievements include community engagement and awareness initiatives that promote cultural identity and social responsibility. The Foundation has also supported vulnerable individuals through small-scale outreach efforts such as educational support, donations, and mentorship activities. In addition, Sankofa Roots Foundation has begun building partnerships and networks with like-minded organizations and stakeholders to enhance its reach and effectiveness. These early efforts demonstrate the Foundation’s commitment to making a difference and its potential for long-term impact.
Looking ahead, Sankofa Roots Foundation aims to expand its programs and deepen its impact across communities. The Foundation plans to introduce structured educational initiatives, including scholarship schemes, training workshops, and youth development programs. It also seeks to implement sustainable community projects in areas such as health, sanitation, water, and economic empowerment. A key priority is to strengthen partnerships both locally and internationally to mobilize resources and expertise. Ultimately, the Foundation envisions becoming a leading non-profit organization that transforms lives, preserves cultural heritage, and contributes significantly to national development
Meet our founders
Natives of Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago who are on a mission to help underprivileged children.
William Forson
William Forson is a native of Ghana who holds two degrees, a bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a masters degree in Leadership and Management.
With the support of his wife and family, William founded Sankofa Roots to help address some of the inequities and assist needy children in Ghana through humanitarian service.
Kathleen Forson
Kathleen Forson is a native of Trinidad and Tobago who is a Registered Nurse and a Certified Surgical Technologist with over 30 years of operating room experience.
At this stage in her illustrious career, she has decided to join her husband, William, in their mission to help address some of the inequities and assist needy children in Ghana through humanitarian service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are donations to Sankofa Roots tax deductible?
Yes, donations made to us are tax deductible. Our organization was incorporated on 7/12/2022 and the Internal Revenue Service determined we are exempt from federal income tax under Internal Revenue Code Section 501 (c) (3) on June 5, 2024. As a result, donors can deduct contributions they make to us under IRC Section 170.
Is it better to donate to Sankofa Roots by check or credit card?
Donating by bank account is the least expensive method of payment in terms of fees to payment processors. In that case, the non-profit organization gets more from your donation, thereby allowing for more of your contribution to be put to work to fulfill its mission.
How can I partner with Sankofa Roots?
Anyone interested in partnering with us should send us an email to sankofarootsoutreach@gmail.com, or contact us via WhatsApp.
Does Sankofa Roots collect large donations from donors, such as foldable chairs, laptops, food items and school supplies?
Yes, you can contact us if you are making large donations and we'll make arrangements to pick them up.
How can we measure the effectiveness of Sankofa Roots?
We will provide updates regularly (quarterly) or report on how we are progressing and or share how we are impacting children's lives on our website.
How can one know that donations to Sankofa Roots are reaching their desired targets in Ghana?
We will provide updates on our travels to Ghana, inventory of donations received, and how they were distributed. Due to security and privacy concerns, once permission is granted from parents and or community leaders, pictures and videos of recipients will be shared on our website.
Since Sankofa Roots is based in New York, how is the organization able to stay abreast with developments in Ghana?
Nowadays, globalization, the internet and social media facilitates how businesses are operated internationally. Also, there are volunteers standing by and we have ample time to travel to and from Ghana to oversee operations.