–Our Impact
Thirty years of measurable change
Independent research shows Roots of Empathy creates lasting change in how children relate to one another — and to themselves.
1.2M+
Children Reached
Children reached across 3 continents since 1996.
0
Every Baby Deserves Love
Of students reported that their Roots of Empathy Baby helped them understand that every baby has the right to be loved.
0
Supporting Mental Health
Of teachers agreed or strongly agreed that the program supported students' mental health and wellbeing.
0
Hope for the Next Generation
Of parents strongly agreed or agreed that seeing the children interact with their baby gave them more hope for the next generation of citizens.
~ Global Annual Program Evaluation Report 2024-25 ~
–Instructor Spotlight
Susan McKane: Raising a Hand for Empathy
For 24 years, Susan McKane has been a steady, empathic presence in classrooms, parenting centres, and as a Mentor and Trainer to so many Roots of Empathy Instructors across Ontario and beyond (Ireland). As Roots of Empathy celebrates its 30th anniversary, Susan’s story reminds us what happens when empathy is nurtured, practised, and modelled— one baby, one classroom, one relationship at a time.
–Instructor Spotlight
A Life in Empathy: Celebrating Darlene MacDonald
For two decades, Darlene MacDonald has quietly shaped a more empathic world—one classroom at a time. As Roots of Empathy celebrates its 30th anniversary, we honour Darlene’s extraordinary contributions: 20 years as an Instructor, reaching more than 1,000 children across New Brunswick; over six years as Provincial Manager; and a dedicated Mentor who supported and connected an entire network of Instructors. Her impact is both measurable and deeply human—felt in classrooms, communities, and in the lasting relationships she built. But to understand Darlene’s legacy, you have to begin where she did: with a lifelong commitment to children and families.
–Instructor Spotlight
Jen Mulqueen: Empathy Woven into Life
When Jen Mulqueen became a Roots of Empathy Instructor in 2011, she was just weeks away from her first child’s first birthday. What followed was a journey that would quietly shape not only the children she worked with — but also the mother, friend, and community member she was becoming. As Roots of Empathy celebrates its 30th anniversary, Jen’s story is a reminder of what happens when empathy takes root close to home.
–Instructor Spotlight
Susan McKane: Raising a Hand for Empathy
For 24 years, Susan McKane has been a steady, empathic presence in classrooms, parenting centres, and as a Mentor and Trainer to so many Roots of Empathy Instructors across Ontario and beyond (Ireland). As Roots of Empathy celebrates its 30th anniversary, Susan’s story reminds us what happens when empathy is nurtured, practised, and modelled— one baby, one classroom, one relationship at a time.
–Instructor Spotlight
A Life in Empathy: Celebrating Darlene MacDonald
For two decades, Darlene MacDonald has quietly shaped a more empathic world—one classroom at a time. As Roots of Empathy celebrates its 30th anniversary, we honour Darlene’s extraordinary contributions: 20 years as an Instructor, reaching more than 1,000 children across New Brunswick; over six years as Provincial Manager; and a dedicated Mentor who supported and connected an entire network of Instructors. Her impact is both measurable and deeply human—felt in classrooms, communities, and in the lasting relationships she built. But to understand Darlene’s legacy, you have to begin where she did: with a lifelong commitment to children and families.
–Instructor Spotlight
Jen Mulqueen: Empathy Woven into Life
When Jen Mulqueen became a Roots of Empathy Instructor in 2011, she was just weeks away from her first child’s first birthday. What followed was a journey that would quietly shape not only the children she worked with — but also the mother, friend, and community member she was becoming. As Roots of Empathy celebrates its 30th anniversary, Jen’s story is a reminder of what happens when empathy takes root close to home.
Voices From Roots of Empathy
● Volunteer Story
An Olympian, a Nurse, a New Parent — and a Roots of Empathy Volunteer
Heather Abdilla (née MacLean) represented Canada at the 2012 London Olympics. Today, she’s helping nurture empathy in the next generation. In this video, she shares her hopes for Roots of Empathy and the impact she sees it having on children and communities.
● In the News
How Bringing a Baby into Class is Helping to Teach Children Empathy
In the video by RTÉ News in Ireland, you’ll hear from a school principal who has both observed Roots of Empathy in his school and delivered the program as an Instructor. Based on that direct experience, he believes that every primary school child should receive Roots of Empathy —he sees the immediate impact during each lesson.
● Instructor Spotlight
What It Means to Be a Roots of Empathy Volunteer Instructor
What does it mean to be a Roots of Empathy Instructor? Hear firsthand from volunteers who have seen the powerful impact of the program on children—and how the experience has transformed their own lives as well.
–Join us
How to get involved
Become a Roots of Empathy Family
Help foster empathy in children, reduce bullying and promote children’s positive mental health and wellbeing!
Bring Roots of Empathy to your School
Help foster empathy in children, reduce bullying and promote children’s positive mental health and wellbeing!
Become a Roots of Empathy Instructor
Want to make a lasting difference in children’s lives in your community? Volunteer to become a Roots of Empathy Instructor!
Help us reach the next million children
You can help children develop the empathy they will need to make friends, care for others, and be parents and leaders who will change the world.