Non-profit behavioral healthcare agency providing alcohol and drug treatment, licensed counseling, domestic violence education and intervention programs, and support services for families affected by addiction. They also offer a summer camp, UCANN Serve and UCANN Lead programs for ages 11-17 to experience mentorship and civic engagement, Urban GEMS science and gardening after-school program for ages 12-19, and awards two scholarships per year for youth ages 17-22 pursuing higher education. The organization was founded by and centers the African community but serves all regardless of race, gender, disability, or economic status.
1409 East Livingstone Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 253-4448
apdsinc.org
A mentoring program for youth attending Independence, Walnut Ridge, Whitehall Yearling High Schools and teens who have had contact with the Juvenile Court system. They also offer homework help, life skills training, and workforce development programming.
4117 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43227
(614) 745-0007
all-that.org
A week-long summer program offered to young women entering their senior year of high school who want to develop leadership skills, learn how government works, and the responsibilities of good citizenship. Participants are divided into “political parties” for hands-on experience and participate in activities including debates, journalism, campaigning, music, and field trips. The program is funded by the American Legion and is free for participants. Students must apply and show above average academic standing to be considered. Find program details online.
PO Box 2760, Zanesville, Ohio 43702
(740) 452-8245
buckeyegirlsstate.org
A week-long summer program offered to young men entering their senior year of high school who want to develop leadership skills, learn how government works, and the responsibilities of good citizenship. Participants are divided into “political parties” for hands-on experience and participate in activities including debates, journalism, campaigning, music, and field trips. The program is funded by the American Legion and is free for participants. Students must apply and show above average academic standing to be considered. Find application details online.
(740) 362-7478
ohiolegion.com/programs/buckeye-boys-state
Their One-to-One Friendship program creates social inclusion and friendships for people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities at middle and high schools, colleges, and online across Ohio. The Leadership Development program empowers people with and without IDD to become leaders, public speakers and advocates.
PO Box 45353, Westlake, Ohio 44145
(614) 928-3383
bestbuddies.org/ohio
A one-to-one mentoring program that matches children of incarcerated parents with volunteers from the community. Visit the website or call to find out how to enroll a child.
1855 East Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 837-2447
bbbs.org/amachi
Offers one-to-one community-based and school-based mentoring programs, as well as week-long, overnight camps during the summer for youth. Visit the website or call for program details and to enroll a child.
Central Ohio: 1855 East Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 839-2447
Ohio Offices: bbbsohio.org/locations
bbbscentralohio.org
Non-profit empowering Black girls ages 11-18 and their families in Akron, Columbus, Dayton, and Lima, Ohio. Their goal is to serve girls who have experienced trauma and stress by promoting community, authenticity, and resiliency. They have monthly meetings and programming for adults, in addition to their conferences and resiliency-based activities for youth.
P.O. Box 09110, Columbus, Ohio 43209
(614) 300-0323
blackgirlrising.net
Nationally-acclaimed club providing after-school and summer programming for youth 5-18. Programs are oriented around Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, Character & Leadership, and Mental Health & Wellbeing. Club members have access to tutoring, gym space, teen-specific areas, field trips, career-readiness opportunities, and mentoring. Go online for a full list of locations, including Newark, 3 Marion Clubs, and 8 Columbus Clubs.
(614) 221-8830
bgccentralohio.org
Non-profit dedicated to empowering Brown Girls of all shades to embrace their confidence and natural beauty, strive for excellence, and grow in sisterhood and community. They provide mentorship opportunities for young women and their parents through group programming in Columbus. They meet several times a month at various Columbus Parks and Recreation Centers. The program includes lectures, trainings, and fun activities to build self-confidence, develop relationships, resolve conflict, and develop practical life skills.
(614) 831-0955
browngirlsmentoring.org
A high-impact leadership development experience for rising high school juniors and seniors in Central Ohio. The six-day summer experience is free, participants receive a financial award upon program completion, and transportation accommodations are available. Students make friends while developing personal leadership skills, have the opportunity to network with Columbus community leaders, and participate in additional programming as alumni. Go online to apply.
37 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 225-6934
leadershipcolumbus.org/cola
Serves: Adolescents and women ages 13-21 at any stage of pregnancy or parenting in Franklin County.
Young Mom Connections group meets twice a month for dinner, activities, childcare, and access to Kairo’s Closet boutique; which provides infant and toddler clothing, diapers, bedding, and more. They also provide mentoring programs and parenting classes.
4142 Westerville Road, Columbus, Ohio 43224
(614) 477-1426
chloeinc.org
Ohio State University mentoring program between college parenting students and Columbus area high school and young adult moms who are parenting or pregnant. They offer one-on-one mentoring, college prep workshops, and monthly gift cards for participants that complete all program criteria. They accept applications into the fall for the school year.
84 North Seventeenth Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 247-8258
odi.osu.edu/champs
Provides programs for teens who are interested in leadership and international issues. The programs are offered through the students’ local high school. Contact for more information.
51 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 229-4599
columbusworldaffairs.org
A nine-month program for youth entering 6th-8th grade, who are residents of the City of Columbus and are interested in becoming community leaders. Participants receive mentorship from city leaders and improve teamwork, public speaking, community awareness, and leadership skills. Participants must complete the application with recommendation letters and be available for monthly meet-ups during the school year.
(614) 645-3330 or (614) 645-0918
columbusrecparks.com/youth-success/city-leaders-academy
A community‐based, non‐profit, advocacy organization that works to empower Black and urban communities through economic, educational and social progress with programs, classes and services.
788 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 257-6300
cul.org
Offers weekly prenatal education classes for expectant fathers and mothers. Classes focus on positive parenting, safe sleep, how to support during pregnancy and when baby comes home. Dads receive a mentor for a year after the birth of their child and linkage to resources such as healthcare and social work.
1741 Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 817-1950
urbanfdc.org/dads2b
Offers programming for youth ages 11-18 focused on leadership training, mentorship and empowerment. The sessions are comprised of fun, interactive, educational and community service activities. The activities are a 10-month commitment. They also offer college scholarships.
P.O. Box 163304, Columbus, Ohio 43216
(614) 470-1913
columbusohdeltas.org/youthapplications
Provides free interview and work-ready clothing, mentoring and career center resources (like professional development, computers with Microsoft software, printers and more) for Central Ohio women ages 16 and up. A referral is required to receive services.
1204 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 291-5420
dfscmh.org
Is an empowerment and mentoring organization for girls and teens in the community through their school program, community workshops, events and speaking engagements.
(614) 285-7465
erynpink.com
Helps immigrants and refugees from all countries establish roots and gain self-sufficiency in Central Ohio. They offer job training, resettlement support, mentoring, English language classes (ESL), after school tutoring for children, youth summer camps, case management for victims of domestic violence and much more.
4300 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43123.
(614) 252-5362
ethiotss.org
Family Adolescent and Child Community Engagement Service (FACCES) is a non-profit providing support for families on the South side of Columbus. Programs include a free fresh market, urban gardening, cooking classes, family fitness classes, access to healthcare through OSU Wexner Medical Center Community Care Coach and family gatherings. FACCES Life Ready Urban Gardening Class is a free, weekly program for youth to learn about how to grow their own food, careers in agriculture, and environmental stewardship. Go online to register for programs and find upcoming events.
2515 Lockbourne Road, Columbus, OH 43207
(614) 319-6070 or (800) 464-0920
thefacces.org
A non-profit providing life-skills training, career exploration, college readiness, wellness management, and direct mentorship opportunities for girls, women, and families. Programs include summer overnight camp for girls grades 6-12, mentorship for girls ages 12-18, volunteering events, and professional development opportunities for women. The Femergy Center offers a space for professional and personal events, a co-working space, and Zen room for families and entrepreneurs.
49 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 653-8454
femergy.org
A leadership program for high school students ages 14-18 to provide leadership and improve services for youth in Franklin County. FCYC members will be empowered to be ambassadors to represent the concerns and be the voice of youth in Franklin County, meet with key officials to advocate for community change and represent FCYC at conferences and special events.
360 South Third Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 272-1464 ext. 777
fcycoh.org
liveunitedcentralohio.org/franklin-county-youth-council
Offers free adult education classes (GED preparation, ESOL, job training, computer skills), community engagement programs, and youth programming (after school homework help, mentoring, summer programs, and TEEN career exploration program).
195 North Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 294-5476
godmanguild.org
High school student athletes participate in a one-year “coaching” program to develop skills in perseverance, professionalism, positivity and more. The program consists of a college scholarship, the assignment of a Handshake Coach, and several meetings throughout the calendar year to help prepare student-athletes for their future. The students submit applications in the middle of their junior year.
4010 East Fifth Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43219
handshakeamerica.org
National organization providing unique leadership training and service-learning experiences for youth, empowering youth from all backgrounds to become leaders with purpose. The flagship State Leadership Seminars accept high school sophomores who have been nominated by their school or a community organization. State Seminars are held at three sites in Ohio: Ohio West, North, and South. HOBY also offers a World Leadership Congress for juniors and seniors, and Community Leadership Workshops for 9th graders at various sites across the country.
National: hoby.org
Ohio West: hobyohiowest.org
Ohio North: hobyohionorth.org
Ohio South: hobyohiosouth.org
Mentorship program for young men of color in middle and high school throughout the school year and summer. The program offers safe and healthy ways to have fun while building career, artistic, academic, professional, and physical strengths. Participants may be placed with internships, hands-on learning experiences, drug, alcohol and violence prevention activities depending on their individual needs. Participants must be ages 9-15 whose families meet income eligibility. Call for enrollment.
788 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 257-6300
cul.org/initiatives/i-am-my-brothers-keeper-iambk
Offers a range of services for students in Columbus City Schools to prepare them to enter and succeed in college, including providing help with financial aid and scholarships.
4200 East Regent Street, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 233-9510
iknowican.org
A mentoring program created to provide young men of all nationalities with practical lessons and positive examples of how to navigate life. Through personal interactions with program mentors and real-world examples, they teach young men from grades 6th-12th not only how to go through life, but how to live meaningful lives fueled by purpose and propelled by passion. Visit the website for addition contact information.
(614) 604-3859
icementors.org
Non-profit working with high school students from underserved communities to prepare them for careers in the legal profession. They provide a year-round, four-year-long program which includes academic programming, a legal internship, ACT/SAT prep, college visits and application help, and moot court competition. The program is free and students are provided bus passes and lunch. They also offer trainings for professionals, a Summer Institute experience, and a Diversity in Leadership Undergraduate Fellowship.
303 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 236-6305
lawandleadership.org
Organization bringing STEM education to underserved youth. Programs include STEM mentorship, leadership development, and tutoring for students K-12. The ACT Advantage Academy provides affordable ACT prep for 8th-12th graders. Some services are free. Scholarships are available.
PO Box 361061, Columbus, Ohio 43236
(614) 407-6049
leademerging.org
Non-profit organization helping high-achieving students from under-resourced backgrounds, especially first generation college students, gain admission to the nation’s most selective colleges. Each year 100 high school juniors are invited to a 7-week summer program at Princeton University, which includes leadership training, standardized test prep, career guidance, and more. Participants have access to support and advising through college and beyond. All services are free. Find application details online.
121 West 36th Street, New York, New York 10018
(646) 582-3608
ledascholars.org
A faith-based organization serving individuals and families in Columbus. They offer transitional housing for previously incarcerated women, low-income families and individuals, and women struggling with substance use. Their adult mentorship program includes a weekly hot meal, job and finance mentoring, life coaching, and supportive services. They offer homework help, mentoring, and a summer day camp for at-risk youth ages 7-17. The Lower Lights Salon hosts free haircut events, and work training for women who have experienced addiction or incarceration.
Provides rising high school juniors and seniors with an opportunity to get an inside look at working in Ohio law and government. Selected students serve a one-year term to advise the Attorney General on issues related to teens, collaborate with others to develop solutions, attend meetings, professional presentations, and community events. Applications generally open in late spring and are due in summer, go online for details.
ohioattorneygeneral.gov/State-and-Local-Government/Schools/Teen-Ambassador-Board
OSU College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences works with families, farmers, business owners, and community leaders to build better communities in Ohio. They offer soil testing kits, 4-H Youth Development Clubs, community courses on Urban Agriculture, Beginner’s Grant Writing, and Food Safety. Their Family & Consumer Sciences office offers nutrition and lifestyle resources including SNAP education, Dining with Diabetes, Food Preservation, and more.
2548 Carmack Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 866-6900
franklin.osu.edu/home
Free program serving vulnerable youth through sports-based positive youth development at various school and community center locations in Columbus. They offer after school programs, summer camps, and sports clinics for youth ages 5-14. The Youth Leadership Academy is a 4 year program for high schoolers to experience professional development, mentoring, career visits, and college prep. Free meals and transportation are provided. Go online or call for registration details.
2400 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio, 43210
(614) 514-5942
osulifesports.org
This week-long summer career leadership training program is for 11th and 12th grade high school students with disabilities. Participants learn about choosing a career, available resources and assistive technology, develop a personalized leadership plan, and connect with peers. Forums are held in Athens, Canton, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo Ohio.
614-809-1513
ohiosilc.org/youth-leadership-forum
A nonprofit organization that supports high-achieving, low-income students to achieve success in college through their programs that offer an academic mentoring program for juniors and full four-year scholarships to colleges.
445 Sherman Ave, Palo Alto, California 94306
(888) 275-2054 Toll-free
questbridge.org
Provides free trauma-informed, culturally-relevant after-school and summer programs to help teens in Columbus City Schools reach their full potential. Programs include job skill & training opportunities, one-on-one mentorship and leadership training, and teen nights. They also host events for parents and community members. Go online to apply.
(614) 342-0505
ruurbanlegends.org
Organization using chess to help underserved youth develop critical thinking, stewardship, leadership, and have fun. They offer Chess Clubs, a 10-12 week Academy program, and workshops at various schools, libraries, and community organizations. Clubs receive supplies, training, and ongoing support from ROI to launch and maintain weekly chess clubs and leadership activities. Contact the ROI to find a club near you or start one at your organization. Their 4C Cooperative Chess Cultural Center on the East side of Columbus offers monthly memberships to access co-working space, event rentals, art, community open chess play, and more community events.
80 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 500-3406
theroichess.org
Offers school and community programming for girls on team building, healthy communication, dealing with girl drama/bullying, healthy relationships, navigating social media, body image, support systems, safety and violence prevention, stress and coping, academic and career development and leadership. Provides research-backed tools and support for caregivers and professional development for educators, youth-serving mentors, and mental health professionals. Call or visit the website to access resources.
1335 Dublin Road, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 488-8080
rulingourexperiences.com
Serves: Single Adults & Families
Offers various faith-based services for Central Ohio families. Housing Services include finding housing, financial assistance, and case management. They also offer programs for youth after-school programming and tutoring, food assistance, emergency utility assistance, support for human trafficking survivors, and addiction recovery. Their thrift stores offer items at bargain prices to fund programs. You can find thrift store, church locations, and program details on their website.
easternusa.salvationarmy.org/southwest-ohio/central-ohio/home
This non-profit educational organic farm and nature preserve offers workshops and classes for children, farm tours, and family programs. Programs include Farm School, which qualifies as an Alternative Learning Experience credit in Ohio. They offer a variety of summer camps for youth and families which include learning the rhythms of nature and a farm, fun activities, and leadership opportunities for high schoolers. Their internships for adults provide opportunities in sustainable agriculture, non-profit administration, family programming, and more.
3083 Liberty Road, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(740) 363-2548
stratfordecologicalcenter.org
Empowers youth in Columbus through equity and justice, bridge building, empowerment, belonging and fun. Programs include Guns DOWN group for ages 13-24 to heal from trauma and prevent violence, Unleashing Potential for ages 18-24 navigating the criminal justice system, and Summer Workforce for ages 14-24 to gain paid work and community service opportunities. Call for details.
(614) 323-9297
tmlyouth.org
Non-profit offering school-based mentoring to youth in grades K-3 at Stevenson Elementary in Grandview Heights and Greensview Elementary in Upper Arlington. The weekly program is run by their Mentoring Coordinator and volunteer teenage mentors. TVML awards two college scholarships each year to volunteer mentors who are graduating seniors from Grandview and Upper Arlington.
3600 Tremont Road, Columbus, Ohio 43221
(614) 255-7942
tvml.org
Community teen center in Gahanna serving students grades 3-12. Students from Gahanna and surrounding communities are invited to build relationships, play games, craft, snack, get homework help, and hang out in a safe and inclusive environment for free. They also offer special events and trips, family nights, a space for community organizations to meet, and opportunities to volunteer.
254 Agler Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
(614) 414-2326
gaap4gahanna.org
A week-long experience for two high school juniors or seniors from each state to see national government in action and meet and hear from senators, cabinet members, officials from the Departments of State and Defense, directors of other federal agencies and more in Washington, DC. All transportation, hotel and meal expenses will be provided by The Hearst Foundations. In addition, each delegate will also be awarded a $10,000 college scholarship. In Ohio, the United States Senate Youth Program makes its student selections from among participants who attend Buckeye Boys State, Buckeye Girls State or the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) program.
(614) 387-3200
ussenateyouth.org
education.ohio.gov/Topics/Other-Resources/Scholarships/US-Senate-Youth-Program
Nonprofit for families needing support during the incarceration of a parent. Provides parenting classes, case management, annual holiday family party, and Generational Leadership program for youth in grades 3rd-12th.
(614) 385-0771
unlockingfamilyfutures.org
Pre-collegiate and collegiate student success program at The Ohio State University (OSU) for academically-talented, first-generation students in Ohio with high financial need. Student scholars receive college advising, academic coaching, mentoring, college planning tools, and more. They also have the opportunity to engage on-campus for day visits and overnight summer stays. Participants who successfully complete all program requirements receive a financial package at OSU. Applications are generally available in winter and due in spring. Go online for details.
154 West Twelfth Avenue, Columbus Ohio 43210
(614) 292-4884
odi.osu.edu/young-scholars-program
Offers faith-based mentoring for youth ages 14-21 to experience fellowship and mentorship at various middle schools, high schools, and colleges in Central Ohio. They offer several groups for youth with special needs. The YoungLives program serves teen moms who are pregnant or parenting through mentorship, community, and a life with Christ. Go online for additional contact information and to get registered.
1200 Chambers Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 547-3167
YoungLives: (614) 329-3994
greatercolumbusoh.younglife.org
Website for youth to find resources, opportunities, and inspiring stories that empower them to make a difference in their lives and in the world around them. The website has a searchable directory with opportunities across the country for internships, scholarships, professional development, and volunteering. The Topics section of the website has helpful toolkits, blog posts written by teens, and important information on topics like mental health, relationships, disabilities, foster care, finances, and more.
engage.youth.gov
A community-based drug prevention and youth leadership program for middle school and high school students. The goal of its many projects is harnessing the powerful influence of peer pressure, making it a positive force that encourages youth to live free of tobacco, alcohol and drugs. Call for meeting schedules and more information.
118 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43125
(614) 224-4506
youthtoyouth.org
Serves: Women and families (referring to emergency shelter access)
Provides affordable housing and supportive services for families and women who may be recovering from addiction and mental illnesses. The YWCA Family Center provides emergency shelter, meals, childcare, and employment help for families without homes. The Women’s Residency program is a permanent housing program that provides long-term housing and supportive services for women. YWCA Kids Place offers after-school programming for families in Gahanna, Westerville, and United Schools Network districts. The organization also offers leadership training and advocacy opportunities for adolescents and adults.