To support Alternate Roots, an organization based in the Southeast whose mission is to support the creation and presentation of original performing and visual art that is rooted in a particular community of place, tradition or spirit. Roots is committed to social and economic justice and the protection of the natural world. Roots artists monitor and evaluate collaborative artmaking processes that strengthen communities. NCF funding in 2002-2003 supported Roots Resources for Social Change and Community/Artist Partnership Programs as well as the group's Annual Meeting. In 2003-2004, Roots will continue to promote communication and provide networking opportunities for members; nurture the development of new community projects; broker arts/community partnerships; increase the skills of member artists; develop strategies for promoting the work and the community issues beyond the region and maintain an organization where members are engaged and involved.