Our mission is to empower Howard County youth, starting in 9th grade, helping them overcome barriers to success and build community and relationships with people outside their usual social circles.
OhanaHC is more than a mentoring program. “Ohana” means family, and every mentee is paired with three diverse adults from the community who offer unique perspectives and support to help the young adult self-define success. Mentees also have the opportunity to develop relationships and a sense of community with other students and mentees at OhanaHC events and weekly school meetings.
We have 150+ volunteers ready to support Howard County youth, so every person can unlock their potential.
OhanaHC is a proud Howard County YEP! (Youth Engagement Programming) grant recipient.
How We Support Students
- Provide Mentorship
Get insights and feedback from 3 mentors and the larger OhanaHC community. - Develop Life Skills
Attend workshops to sharpen skills and develop new ones. - Set Goals
We believe youth should self-define success and life goals. - Remove Barriers
OhanaHC helps youth identify and address challenges and obstacles, ensuring they have the resources and support to grow and thrive. - Foster Engagement
In addition to the mentoring opportunities, we have monthly activities and weekly school meetings to engage students. - Build Community
We focus on building new and diverse connections that foster collaboration and a sense of community.
“Building relationships with my mentors has provided new opportunities and new confidence to do so many things. My grades are better, I’m involved in more things at school, and I’m thinking about my future in a way I never had before.”
– Fourth Year Mentee, Hammond High School
What We Offer
- Events
- Weekly club meetings
- Network
- Community
- Skills training
Participating Schools
Starting in 9th grade, students are eligible to participate in OhanaHC for up to 10 years. This allows Howard County youth to fulfill lifelong change. OhanaHC supports students long after high school graduation, because the 6 years after are critical for youth trying to make it in the world on their own.
Student Impact
Listen as Hammond High School students talk about what OhanaHC means to them.