Our Inspiration
OhanaHC was inspired by the amazing work of Thread, a Baltimore non-profit organization that was founded in 2004 by Sarah and Ryan Hemminger. Its mission is to harness the power of relationships to create a new social fabric of diverse individuals deeply engaged with young people facing the most significant opportunity and achievement gaps. Thread is committed to ending social isolation and building a more equitable culture in which everyone thrives.
Our Founders
Susan and Steven Porter are Howard County residents who have experience in growing for-profit companies and volunteering in Howard County nonprofits. Both Susan and Steven are Leadership Howard County (LHC) alumni. They have served on several boards including the Howard County Chamber of Commerce, the Bright Minds Foundation, the Howard County Arts Council, LHC, and the Community Foundation of Howard County.
Through their volunteerism in the community, the Porters recognized the need for a Thread-like operation in Howard County, to help academically struggling, underserved students. This county has an abundance of resources, but equal opportunity does not mean equal access. The Porters recognized that there was an opportunity to spread awareness and access to the incredible resources that exist in our county while supporting those who are underrepresented or isolated. Empowering all students to take advantage of the resources around them enables them to chart a better course for their lives and build a stronger community for us all.
The Porters co-founded OhanaHC as a non-profit in 2020; the organization has only grown because of the committed community members who volunteered to make OhanaHC a reality. It started with a steering committee of 15 volunteers who launched the pilot.
We now have 150+ community members serving as board members, committee members, and mentors. Our pilot program started at Wilde Lake High School with just ten students and has now expanded to Hammond, Oakland Mills, and Guilford Park.
Our Mission
OhanaHC empowers underrepresented youth in Howard County to define and achieve success. We build community by creating relationships beyond our usual social circles.
Vision
Everyone in Howard County can have the opportunity to thrive and pursue success, while isolation is actively reduced for all.
Our Core Values
- Youth at the Center – We put youth first. Their voice, goals, and growth are at the heart of everything we do.
- Equity in Action – We stand for equity and justice. We actively challenge the systems that hold people back, and work to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
- Continuous Learning – We believe everyone has something to learn. Mentoring is a two-way street, mentors grow, mentees grow, and we all learn together through reflection, curiosity, and shared experiences.
- Authentic Connection – Strong relationships start with real connections. We show up, listen deeply, and create spaces where people feel like they belong, and where they can explore, share, and lead.
- Respect Every Community – We’re part of many powerful communities. We honor the cultures, traditions, and lived experiences of those we walk alongside, always showing humility.
What is Ohana?
Ohana in Hawaiian means family. You may have heard the word used in the popular Disney movie, “Lilo & Stitch”, where characters quote, “Ohana means family. Family means no one gets left behind”. Though true, there is a deeper meaning to the word and spirit of Ohana. It goes beyond inclusion or not being forgotten. Ohana is about fostering loving and lasting relationships with those closest to us, including family, friends, and our community. As an organization, we strive to implement the value of Ohana into our lives and daily work.
Our Villages
The term “village” is used throughout the organization to identify a group of our Ohanas. The mentors, mentees, and their families at each of our four high schools constitute a village. This follows Jim Rouse’s vision for the Columbia, MD area where practical and affordable housing options were available to everyone. The spirit and well-being of the individual can be seen in the town’s numerous parks, businesses, residential areas, and community centers where all are included, all belong.
