A 501(c)(3) youth mentoring nonprofit · Howard County, MD 501(c)(3) · Howard County, MD

Six Years of Showing Up

StoryMentoring

September 2026

Lisa Terry, mentor

The story

When Lisa Terry became an OhanaHC mentor, she signed up to be there for a young person. Six years later, she says the experience has given just as much back to her.

Through the conversations, milestones, and everyday moments that come with mentoring, Lisa has seen what can happen when someone keeps showing up. She has also learned, grown, and built connections of her own along the way.

This experience has been incredibly meaningful to me. It’s not only about guiding a teen, but also learning, growing, and being reminded of the impact that consistent support and connection can make in someone’s life.

Lisa Terry, OhanaHC mentor

For Lisa, mentoring isn’t a one-way relationship. It’s a chance for both people to grow.

When she’s not volunteering, she’s the Manager for the Department of Community Resources and Services, Howard County Office of Veterans and Military Families, providing military families and veterans guidance, information, and access to employment, education, mental health, wellness, recreation, housing, and human services. She also co-founded the Howard County Veterans Foundation, which raised millions for a Veterans and Family Monument.

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Refer a student

Every story here started with an introduction

Somebody told a ninth grader about OhanaHC. If you know a young person in Howard County who could use more adults in their corner, connect us.