Frequently asked Questions
Is the Re|Root Collaborative a 501(c)(3) organization?
Almost! Re|Root has applied to the IRS for 501(c)(3) tax-exemption and our status is pending approval. The IRS allows donors to contribute to nonprofits with tax-exempt status pending approval. Once the IRS approves our application, your donation is fully tax-deductible and we’ll provide you written confirmation.
Where does the money go when I donate to Re|Root?
When you donate to Re|Root, your contribution goes directly toward building community-led waste and recycling solutions in Ghana. Donations support program activities such as training local women and underemployed workers, establishing small-scale recycling infrastructure, providing safety equipment, and expanding access to environmental health education. A smaller portion helps cover essential operational costs that keep our programs running effectively and transparently.
How can I get involved in Re|Root’s mission?
Although our programs operate in Ghana, global waste challenges begin in the countries where products are made, purchased, and eventually discarded. Even well-intentioned donations can become waste when they exceed what local markets can absorb. You can get involved by being mindful of what you buy, how long you keep it, and how you pass items on. Small, intentional choices to minimize consumption help reduce the global waste stream and support more equitable systems for everyone.
What is Re|Root’s mission?
Re|Root’s mission is to reduce the health impacts of inadequate waste management in Ghana by creating community-led recycling and empowerment initiatives. At our core, we believe all people and communities have equal value, and the current global system of waste dumping in Ghana does not reflect that. We are working to build solutions that do.
Why start in Ghana?
Ghana is one of the world’s largest receivers of post-consumer textiles and other waste, much of it arriving in volumes far beyond what local systems can manage. This creates environmental, economic, and public health challenges for communities who did not create the problem. We chose to start our work here because the need is urgent and because we have strong local partners committed to community-led solutions.
Over time, we hope to expand this work to other countries navigating similar challenges, adapting what we learn in Ghana to meet the needs of different local contexts.
What is Re|Root’s long-term vision?
Ultimately, we envision a world where waste no longer harms people or the environment; where communities have the tools to transform discarded materials into opportunity; and where global systems value people and the planet equally. Re|Root works to make that shift possible, rooted in deep collaboration with the communities we serve.
Contact us.
Have a question that’s not answered here or just want to say hi? Fill out our contact form or email us directly at collab@rerootcollaborative.org