Transforming hardship into hope through mentorship, community, and education.
Our Heart
Compassion drives every program we create
Our Community
Together we build stronger neighborhoods
Our Mission
Where dreams become direction
Our Story
Founded in 2022 by a group of educators and community leaders, Northstar began as a small weekend meetup in a college dorm room. We witnessed firsthand how a single caring adult can change a child's life—whether by sparking a love of science, cheering them on at their first public performance, or simply believing in their dreams.
Today, that spark fuels every program we run. What started as informal mentoring sessions has grown into a comprehensive support system that addresses the multifaceted challenges facing underserved youth.
Every young person we serve reminds us why we started this journey—because potential exists everywhere, but opportunity does not.
Our Location & Community
Why Cleveland Needs NorthStar
Northstar operates out of Cleveland, Ohio—a city where we've seen firsthand
the challenges facing our youth.
Cleveland, Ohio
Neighborhoods struggle to secure safe homes and quality learning opportunities
Limited access to mental health care and community support
48.4% of youth (35,000 children) lived in poverty in 2023
We saw neighborhood after neighborhood struggle to secure safe homes, access mental health care, and find quality learning opportunities. The statistics were sobering, but the individual stories were what truly moved us to action.
Every child we meet has dreams and aspirations, but systemic barriers often stand in their way. Our programs are designed to remove those barriers and create pathways to success.
For us, this work isn’t charity—it’s solidarity. We rise together when every child is given the chance to thrive
"We don't just serve Cleveland—we're part of Cleveland.
This community raised us, and now we're committed to raising it up."
Our Vision
Driven by the belief that "Where Dreams Become Direction," we set out to transform hardship into hope through three pillars of empowerment: mentorship, community, and education.
Mentorship
Connecting young people with experienced professionals who provide guidance, support, and real-world insights into their chosen career paths.
Community
Building strong networks of support that celebrate culture, foster belonging, and create lasting connections within neighborhoods..
Education
Providing access to quality learning opportunities, practical life skills, and the resources needed to pursue higher education and career goals.
The NorthStar Promise
We believe that every young person, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams. Our vision is a world where zip code doesn't determine destiny, and where every child has access to the mentorship, education, and community support they need to thrive.
Why Education Matters
Knowledge turns dreams into achievable directions. But for too many low-income youth, opportunities to learn and thrive remain painfully limited.
The Education Gap
Education isn't just academics—it's also the practical skills for adulthood. Financial literacy, critical thinking, and career readiness are essential for breaking cycles of poverty.
Beyond the Classroom
Our approach to education extends far beyond traditional learning. We focus on mentorship, life skills, and real-world application that prepares young people for success.
"Stronger kids today,
Stronger communities tomorrow."
Our Commitment
At Northstar, our commitment is clear: we help youth build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills. Together we can empower young people to turn their dreams into clear, achievable directions!
What We Promise
Personalized mentorship matching
Free, high-quality educational workshops
Ongoing community support and resources
A safe, inclusive environment for all participants
Building Strong Foundations for Brighter Futures
Our Goal
To ensure every young person we serve has the tools, support, and confidence to pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Expansion Plans
Guided by our promise — "Where Dreams Become Direction"— our story is far from finished as we are expanding from Cleveland to communities across the nation.