Alumni Feature: Vallejo Roots stays grounded in friendship and service to Vallejo High

VALLEJO, Calif. — What began as a group of longtime friends seeking a meaningful way to give back has evolved into a community-driven effort to uplift Vallejo High School students.

Vallejo Roots was founded in 2022 by eight Vallejo High alumni, class of 2008, who expressed deep gratitude for the city that will always be home and for the school that bonded them. Rooted in friendship and community, the group’s mission is to empower Vallejo through love, service, and respect.

The founders: Liann Amagan, Alex Aquino, Joyce Bunggay, Shann Bunggay, Frances Villote Francisco, Travis J., Alex Oribello, and Maricar Pascual, have been friends since their days at Vallejo High, a bond that has lasted nearly 20 years. They said working together as Vallejo Roots has been “uplifting, humbling, empowering, and exciting.”

That connection is central to why Vallejo Roots continues to focus its efforts at Vallejo High School. The group said it wanted to give back to students who come from the same foundation they once did, and to connect with them in a way that feels personal and relatable, as they have walked similar paths.

To support seniors, Vallejo Roots created the Youth Excellence and Empowerment Award, known as the YEE Award, which recognizes Vallejo High seniors who embody grit and determination while demonstrating personal excellence through their actions and experiences. The group stated that the award is intended for students who embody its core values of perseverance, authenticity, compassion, and integrity.

Unlike many awards and scholarships, the YEE Award does not require a minimum GPA or proof of college plans. Vallejo Roots said its goal is to create an inclusive opportunity and reduce barriers for students who may feel intimidated by traditional application processes.

“Vallejo Roots understands how overwhelming and vulnerable it can feel to apply for awards, but we believe all Vallejo students have a unique story and we encourage them to share it,” the group said. 

Students are evaluated based on the application, requested documents, and a Zoom meet-and-greet. After the application window closes, Vallejo Roots members review submissions, verify materials, and contact applicants to schedule interviews. The group said the Zoom meet-and-greet is one of the most meaningful parts of the process because it allows students to share who they are beyond what’s written on paper.

Vallejo Roots primarily communicates through social media and direct outreach to the school community. The group shares updates through its Instagram and Facebook pages and works closely with Vallejo High School counselors, former teachers, and staff to spread the word about the opportunity.

Vallejo Roots typically begins outreach to Vallejo High each school year around January and February, encouraging seniors to apply and reminding students that the award centers on story, character, and perseverance, not a number.

Looking ahead, Vallejo Roots said it hopes to continue recognizing Vallejo High seniors each year and inspire students to build their own legacy. For students who may be doubting themselves, the message remains simple: take a chance.

“Just go for it,” the group said. “You’ll never know if you never try.”

Where to Find Vallejo Roots

Vallejo Roots shares announcements and application updates on social media:

Instagram: @vallejoroots
Facebook: Vallejo Roots

Vallejo Roots members also coordinate directly with Vallejo High School counselors and staff to ensure students receive information about the Youth Excellence and Empowerment Award.