Inclusive Mentoring: Expanding Access, Belonging, and Opportunity
Learn how mentoring can expand access to information, networks, guidance and opportunities for young people, while creating a stronger sense of belonging.
The people of OhanaHC, in their own words
Meet the people who are the heart of OhanaHC, and experience their moments, big and small, that made a lasting impact.
In Our Words
Latest from the community
Showing 9 of 38 stories, page 4 of 5
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A Career Built Around Young People
For Chris Matthews, mentoring feels like a natural extension of the work he has spent more than two decades doing with students and families across Howard County Public Schools.
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What Young People Gain From Experiencing Different Cultures and Perspectives
Experiencing different cultures, customs, and perspectives can broaden how young people see the world, communicate with others, and understand what is possible.
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A Rewarding Way to Show Up
Jayna Crandell is a pre-nursing student at Howard Community College who joined OhanaHC because she enjoys helping people and building new connections.
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What to Know About Neurodiversity and Supporting Young People
Every young person thinks, learns, communicates, and experiences the world a little differently. For some, those differences may be connected to autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or another form of neurodivergence.
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Showing Up for the Next Generation
Howard County has been home to Thomas King for more than 20 years, and community service has been part of his life for even longer.
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Mentors Keep Growing, Too
Strong mentoring takes more than good intentions. It takes listening, learning, and a willingness to grow alongside young people.
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OhanaHC Picked for a YEP! Grant
In 2025, OhanaHC was one of 33 community programs selected to receive a Howard County Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) grant.
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Helping Shape What’s Next for Howard County Youth with the YES! Council
Creating better opportunities for young people takes more than one program. It takes schools, community organizations, local leaders, and families working together.
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Impact
OhanaHC in FY2026
- 67+ young people served in FY2026
- 192+ mentors and volunteers
- 8,000+ mentoring and volunteer hours
Impact
The outcomes funders ask about. 85% of parents noticed positive change, 94% of students report a trusted adult, and 80% of students report a stronger sense of belonging.
Annual Report
A full year of the work, published as a web page you can read on any device, with the PDF there too for anyone who wants it.