Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: The Crayon Initiative
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 540 Glasgow Circle
City: Danville
State: CA
Postal Code: 94526
Main Phone: 8558272966
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://thecrayoninitiative.org/
Employer ID Number: 80-0938971
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/18/2026
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: The Crayon Initiative
Project Description:

The Crayon Initiative requests a $10,000 grant to fund the remanufacturing and distribution of high-quality art materials for pediatric patients. This investment directly supports our mission to promote creative therapy while practicing environmental responsibility.

Operational Allocation: The requested funds will be utilized to manage the end-to-end lifecycle of our program, specifically:

Production & Manufacturing: Covering the costs of melting and refining raw wax into our custom-designed, ergonomic triangular crayons, which are easier for hospitalized children to grip.

Logistics & Distribution: Funding the shipping of finished products to our network of over 260 partner hospitals, ensuring these resources arrive at no cost to the medical facilities.

Quantifiable Outcomes: A $10,000 contribution yields significant, measurable results for both healthcare and the environment:

Patient Reach: We will produce and deliver 6,850 crayon packs, distributing over 54,000 individual crayons to children facing the stress of hospitalization.

Environmental Stewardship: This project diverts 1,370 pounds of non-biodegradable, petroleum-based wax from landfills, repurposing waste into a therapeutic tool.

Conclusion
By funding this initiative, you provide nearly 7,000 pediatric patients with a vital outlet for expression and normalcy. This grant ensures that the logistical chain—from the collection of discarded wax to the delivery of a child’s first hospital art project—remains seamless and impactful.

Total Project Budget: $360,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Events, ongoing donors, and grants

Project Duration: Calendar Year 2026
Geographical Area Served: Nationwide
Age Group To Be Served: 2 – 21

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr
Contact First Name: Bryan
Contact Last Name: Ware
Contact Title: Founder
Contact Phone: 9257856044
Contact Email: bryan@thecrayoninitiative.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: PFK Shield & Shelter
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: PFK Services
Mailing Address: 1705 Leander Drive
City: Little Rock
State: Arkansas
Postal Code: 72204
Main Phone: 501-240-1086
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.pfkservices.org
Employer ID Number: 39-3173659
Organization Tax Status: Non-profit, Tax Exempt

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/18/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Vision Access Initiative
Project Description:

The Vision Access Initiative is an existing program of PFK Shield & Shelter designed to address a critical barrier to student success in Southeast Arkansas, the lack of access to basic vision care. Through our partnership with Ambassadors for Christ Youth Ministries and Rising Warriors Academy, we have identified a growing number of students in grades 5 through 12 navigating school and daily life with undiagnosed vision challenges that impact their ability to read, focus, and fully engage in learning.

Through this collaborative effort, we have begun connecting students to vision screenings and support when resources allow. However, a lack of dedicated funding has limited our ability to consistently meet this need. For many of the families we serve, the cost of eye exams and prescription glasses remains out of reach, leaving students to struggle academically and socially through no fault of their own.

With support from the Hermanowski Foundation, PFK Shield & Shelter will expand this initiative to provide 50 underserved youth in grades 5 through 12 with comprehensive vision support, including screenings, eye exams, and prescription eyewear at no cost. Participants will be identified through Rising Warriors Academy and Ambassadors for Christ programs, as well as through referrals from local schools and community partners.

We have already seen how access to proper vision care can improve student confidence, classroom participation, and academic performance. This funding will allow us to respond more consistently to a need we are actively encountering.

By strengthening this existing initiative, we are removing a direct barrier to both health and education, ensuring that youth have the support they need to succeed.

Total Project Budget: 10,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): PFK Shield & Shelter has committed internal funding to support the Vision Access Initiative through revenue generated by PFK Services, LLC, including a structured profit-sharing model that allocates a portion of earned income toward programmatic efforts. In addition, the organization has received donor contributions that have supported early implementation and direct assistance for youth in need of vision care.

Project Duration: The Vision Access Initiative will be implemented over a 12-month period, with all funds fully utilized within the year following the grant award.
Geographical Area Served: Southeast Arkansas: Specifically Jefferson and Chicot Counties
Age Group To Be Served: 10 to 18 year olds

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Gwendolyn
Contact Last Name: Middleton-Rockett
Contact Title: CEO
Contact Phone: 501-444-2064
Contact Email: gwendolyn@pfkservices.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: PFK Shield & Shelter
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: PFK Services
Mailing Address: 1705 Leander Drive
City: Little Rock
State: Arkansas
Postal Code: 72204
Main Phone: 501-240-1086
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.pfkservices.org
Employer ID Number: 39-3173659
Organization Tax Status: Non-profit, Tax Exempt

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/18/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title:
Project Description:

The Vision Access Initiative is an existing program of PFK Shield & Shelter designed to address a critical barrier to student success in Southeast Arkansas, the lack of access to basic vision care. Through our partnership with Ambassadors for Christ Youth Ministries and Rising Warriors Academy, we have identified a growing number of students in grades 5 through 12 navigating school and daily life with undiagnosed vision challenges that impact their ability to read, focus, and fully engage in learning.

Through this collaborative effort, we have begun connecting students to vision screenings and support when resources allow. However, a lack of dedicated funding has limited our ability to consistently meet this need. For many of the families we serve, the cost of eye exams and prescription glasses remains out of reach, leaving students to struggle academically and socially through no fault of their own.

With support from the Hermanowski Foundation, PFK Shield & Shelter will expand this initiative to provide 50 underserved youth in grades 5 through 12 with comprehensive vision support, including screenings, eye exams, and prescription eyewear at no cost. Participants will be identified through Rising Warriors Academy and Ambassadors for Christ programs, as well as through referrals from local schools and community partners.

We have already seen how access to proper vision care can improve student confidence, classroom participation, and academic performance. This funding will allow us to respond more consistently to a need we are actively encountering.

By strengthening this existing initiative, we are removing a direct barrier to both health and education, ensuring that youth have the support they need to succeed.

Total Project Budget: 10,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): PFK Shield & Shelter has committed internal funding to support the Vision Access Initiative through revenue generated by PFK Services, LLC, including a structured profit-sharing model that allocates a portion of earned income toward programmatic efforts. In addition, the organization has received donor contributions that have supported early implementation and direct assistance for youth in need of vision care.

Project Duration: The Vision Access Initiative will be implemented over a 12-month period, with all funds fully utilized within the year following the grant award.
Geographical Area Served: Southeast Arkansas: Specifically Jefferson and Chicot Counties
Age Group To Be Served: 10 to 18 year olds

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Gwendolyn
Contact Last Name: Middleton-Rockett
Contact Title: CEO
Contact Phone: 501-444-2064
Contact Email: gwendolyn@pfkservices.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Open Doors for Multicultural Families
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: ODMF
Mailing Address: 24437 Russell Road Ste. 110
City: Kent
State: WA
Postal Code: 98032
Main Phone: 253-216-4479
Main Fax: 253-499-0014
Organization Website: www.opendoorsWA.org
Employer ID Number: 27-1206272
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/18/26
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Little Keys
Project Description:

ODMF’s Little Keys early learning program equips young children with developmental disabilities, delays, and complex support needs with the foundational skills, stability, and family resources they need to thrive. Rooted in a whole-child and whole-family approach, Little Keys provides culturally responsive early intervention services, developmental screening, inclusive parent-child learning groups, and intensive family navigation to ensure that every child enters school ready to learn and able to reach their full potential.

Each year, Little Keys supports more than 60 families with infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children who face barriers stemming from disability, poverty, limited access to child care, and systemic inequities. Families work closely with our Family Resource Coordinators and Parent Educators to build developmental skills across language, social-emotional growth, early literacy, problem-solving, and physical development. We layer evidence-based curricula with individualized coaching to meet children where they are and help them progress at their own pace.

Because a child’s success is deeply interconnected with family wellbeing, our program also strengthens the caregivers who support them. Parents receive personalized guidance on navigating medical and educational systems, accessing early intervention services, securing basic needs, and advocating for their child’s long-term success. We offer ongoing workshops, peer support groups, and targeted outreach to ensure underserved families, especially those caring for children with intellectual/developmental disabilities, can access resources without stigma or barriers.

By nurturing developmental growth early and empowering families with knowledge and support, Little Keys interrupts disparities before they widen. With support from the Hermanowski Foundation, we will enhance our parent-child learning opportunities and ensure that every young learner has the tools, confidence, and stability they need to thrive in school and beyond.

Total Project Budget: $289,847

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Pierce County Human Services (potential); Foundry10 (potential); Ellison Foundation (potential)

Project Duration: 1/1/27 – 12/31/27
Geographical Area Served: King and Pierce Counties, Washington
Age Group To Be Served: 0-5

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Stacy
Contact Last Name: Sage
Contact Title: Senior Grant Writer
Contact Phone: 253-263-4372
Contact Email: stacys@opendoorswa.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Calm Waters Center for Children and Families
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: Calm Waters
Mailing Address: 501 North Walker, Suite 140
City: Oklahoma City
State: Oklahoma
Postal Code: 73102
Main Phone: 405-841-4800
Main Fax: 405-841-4803
Organization Website: www.calmwaters.org
Employer ID Number: 73-1561707
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 18, 2026
Requested Amount: $5,000

Project Title: School Support Groups
Project Description:

We’re excited to apply this funding to support the growth of our student support groups so we can reach more children, especially those with limited access to resources. Our goal is to provide safe, caring spaces where students can share their grief, build coping skills, and feel supported. We’re inspired by our students daily. But recently one little girl really captured our hearts. After participating in one of our support groups, following the death of her father by suicide, she gathered $23 of her own money to donate to us. It’s moments like these that show us the real difference, and need for our program. We’re reminded of the importance of our mission every time we see these impacts. The primary focus of our support groups is getting the mental health support to kids who desperately need it.
Dealing with grief, emotions, and family changes can affect academic performance, attendance, and emotional well-being for children. Support groups offer students a chance to talk openly, learn healthy coping skills, and feel less alone. Showing them that many of their peers are going through similar experiences makes all the difference in their world. It’s well known that students who feel supported at school are more likely to be involved both academically and socially, which leads to success into adulthood.
With the help of your funding, we will offer structured support groups led by trained facilitators at schools across the state of Oklahoma. Sessions will be age-appropriate, inclusive, and culturally sensitive. Participation will be voluntary and confidential.
This grant will help cover staff training, materials, and resources needed to run effective groups. We strive to build a base of healing that will support students through their grief journey.

Total Project Budget: $207,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): united way of central Oklahoma, private individual and organizational donations

Project Duration: June 1, 2026- July031, 2027
Geographical Area Served: Oklahoma
Age Group To Be Served: 4-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Sue
Contact Last Name: Smith
Contact Title: Development Coordinator
Contact Phone: 405-841-4800
Contact Email: sue@calmwaters.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: SIS Sisters in Service Inc.
Legal Name (if Different): SIS Sisters in Service Inc.
Also Known As: SIS Sisters in Service Inc.
Mailing Address: 739 High St.
City: Portsmouth
State: Virginia
Postal Code: 23704
Main Phone: 8047280004
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://sistersinserviceinc.org
Employer ID Number: 861674439
Organization Tax Status: 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/17/2026
Requested Amount: 10000

Project Title: EmpowerHER Leadership & Workforce Readiness Initiative
Project Description:

The EmpowerHER Leadership & Workforce Readiness Initiative is a structured youth development program designed to equip middle and high school girls in Hampton Roads with the skills, confidence, and exposure needed to successfully navigate adolescence and transition into future educational and career pathways.

This initiative responds to gaps in access to mentorship, leadership development, and workforce readiness opportunities for girls in underserved communities. Through a structured multi-week program model, participants engage in consistent, skill-based experiences that promote personal growth, decision-making, and long-term goal planning.

The program integrates leadership development, financial literacy, and career exploration with real-world application. Participants engage with local professionals and mentors who provide insight into various career pathways while reinforcing the importance of education, responsibility, and community involvement. Guided goal setting and accountability practices help participants build self-awareness and develop a stronger sense of direction for their future.

In addition, participants take part in service-oriented activities that encourage civic responsibility and connection to their communities. These experiences are designed to strengthen both individual growth and collective impact.

By investing in early leadership development and workforce exposure, the EmpowerHER Initiative supports improved confidence, increased engagement in positive opportunities, and stronger readiness for post-secondary success. The program reflects SIS Sisters in Service Inc.’s commitment to creating pathways for young women to thrive academically, socially, and economically while contributing positively to their communities.

Total Project Budget: 25000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Portsmouth Police Department, Norfolk Southern, Cox Charities, Hampton Roads Community Foundation

Project Duration: Summer (May) 2026 through Winter (January) 2027, consisting of three 12 week program cohorts implemented especially during key school break periods.
Geographical Area Served: Hampton Roads region, including Portsmouth, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and surrounding communities.
Age Group To Be Served: 12-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Marissa
Contact Last Name: Adams
Contact Title:
Contact Phone: 8047280004
Contact Email: admin@sistersinserviceinc.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Hearts of Mercy
Legal Name (if Different): Hearts of Mercy, Inc.
Also Known As: Hearts of Mercy
Mailing Address: 364 N. Main Street Suite #1
City: Manahawkin
State: NJ
Postal Code: 08050
Main Phone: 9087830269
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.hearts-of-mercy.org
Employer ID Number: 47-1170968
Organization Tax Status: Active/Approved

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/18/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Summer Camps / Mentoring
Project Description:

Hearts of Mercy recognizes that the stresses facing too many families in the 21st century negatively impacts their children — emotionally, physically, and socially. We are here to alter that impact with an impact of our own by helping under-resourced children break the cycle of poverty. We do this by providing a safe learning environment, increasing caring connections, and creating endless opportunities for the children we serve to have fun while learning and growing their curiosity and their quest to learn and achieve more, towards a brighter future. Hearts of Mercy’s mission statement is “To break the poverty cycle through learning and enrichment programs that motivate at-risk children to create a better tomorrow.” Hearts of Mercy (HOM for short) believes enriching activities and academic and emotional support can place these children on the right path to better decision-making and long-lasting careers. This will lift the next generation out of poverty.
In the early 2010s, Hearts of Mercy’s founder, Kristin Santorelli, moved from Roswell, New Mexico, to Manahawkin, New Jersey. In her new neighborhood, she saw poverty on levels she hadn’t seen before and was motivated to help. By connecting with local teachers, Church members, Police, artists, and Government officials, she built Hearts of Mercy to support the mission.
Kristin collaborated with community members to provide haircuts and holiday parties through a local hotel. In 2015, HOM became a 501(c)(3) organization. Through the early years of the organization’s 501(c)(3) status, Kristin and her team grew and developed the versatile programs HOM has today that support growth and stability for these children.
Hearts of Mercy supports at-risk children with life enrichment through tutoring, mentoring, art classes, summer camp, access to sports, and this summer a unique weekly camp for Art, STEAM/Science, Dance/Drama and Sports Agility. Our services are guided by trained volunteers, mentors, coaches, many retired certified New Jersey Teachers, and industry-leading professionals in the community. They offer consistent support throughout the year to these Students. We offer all programs at a very reasonable rate and adjusted so all can afford! We now bring families in all levels of income status.
Our Tutoring / Mentoring Program runs 2 days a week with certified Teachers, as we provide the additional curriculum and supplies needed to best support their student. The happiness we see in the child’s eyes as they walk in the door is amazing as the improvements are continuously noticed by the Tutors, the Parents and the Teachers.
Connections are the foundation of our organization, which is why we organize outreach events throughout the year. These events bring new children to our programs, and strengthens our long-lasting connections. We have an annual winter outreach with snacks and gifts donated from the community organizations and we reach 50+ Students as they are getting off of the bus. We too meet students throughout the summer with our certified Coaches to encourage and get kids off of their phones.. it works! In the 15 + years, we have had Christmas, Easter, Park Parties, Clothing drives and much more, while building relationships with the students that need our services the most.
Hearts of Mercy has begun conducting a routine survey for its programs to show our impact on at-risk youth. The survey assesses multiple functions, including the overall performance of the staff and organization, skills and goals attained by individual youth, and approaches and challenges reported by volunteers. Through measured academics and goal setting led by effective staff, these children and teens will be set on the path to a better future, with the potential to raise them above the poverty line.
Quantitative Impact Through all of our programs, Hearts of Mercy seeks measurable evidence of social-emotional learning. One of the major factors our annual survey measures is the level of confidence and excitement to tackle new skills. HOM will also be measuring academics through report cards and will report any decrease or increase in grades. Through positive social activity and academic support, these children and teens can grow into well-rounded, confident, and compassionate members of society as adults.
Qualitative Impact Hearts of Mercy asks for input throughout the year from the Ocean County community through testimonials. Family members and educational professionals have expressed how HOM’s programs have helped children grow emotionally, socially, and intellectually. The youth HOM serves grow more confident, compassionate, and hopeful through each of our programs. Enriching activities and educational support are certainly part of HOM’s social-emotional impact, but the tutors, coaches, and mentors leading these programs are essential to our success. These professionals carefully guide each child and teen, taking into account their individual needs. HOM is proud to have a majority of certified professionals leading our programs.
Focusing on our new expansion of our Mentoring Program and our Summer Camps, it is similarly designed for the amazing Mentors to provide hands-on initiative to empower our youth to explore their own unique talents and grow in self confidence while building character and resilience, as well as themselves making the world a better place.
One of our Guiding Principles, Inclusion, is defined to include diversity, equitability and inclusion. Currently, with the exception of our executive director, HoM is powered exclusively by volunteers. As we grow our capacity and advance our sustainability, including the retention of specialized staff and/or outsourced expertise to support our human resources and administrative operations, we will define processes to further support our commitment
Referrals come from local social services agencies, school districts, CASA, word of mouth, website, social media, newsletters and multimedia press. We are actively forming connections with local county youth/human services agencies, NJ Child Protection and Permanency, and other youth-serving organizations for cross-referrals.
Testimonials will tell the story of how this particular program benefited these minors.
We are a full volunteer run organization and run by hearts!

Total Project Budget: $10,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Business Donations/Sponsorship

Project Duration: Tutoring/Mentoring and Summer Camps through 2027
Geographical Area Served: Ocean County, NJ
Age Group To Be Served: K-High School

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Kristin
Contact Last Name: Santorelli
Contact Title: Founder / Executive Director
Contact Phone: 908-783-0269
Contact Email: kristin@hearts-of-mercy.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Home of the Sparrow, Inc.
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: Home of the Sparrow, Inc.
Mailing Address: 1991 Duncan Place
City: Woodstock
State: IL
Postal Code: 60098
Main Phone: 8152715444
Main Fax: 8152715406
Organization Website: https://www.hosparrow.org/
Employer ID Number: 36-3494491
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/18/2026
Requested Amount: 5,000

Project Title: Homeless to Housed
Project Description:

Home of the Sparrow (HOS) is now in its fourth decade of service, dedicated to reducing the prevalence of homelessness among women, children, individuals, and families through creative strategies and community partnerships that result in lasting self-sufficiency. As a leading provider of homeless services in the region, HOS offers tailored support through shelter, supportive housing, or rental assistance, combined with case management, guiding clients toward self-sufficiency. Following the Housing First model, HOS prioritizes safe housing, allowing clients to begin addressing challenges and barriers in a stable environment as the foundation for recovery and growth. In fiscal year 2025 (ending June 30, 2025), HOS served 488 individuals across its shelter, housing, intake, and outreach programs, including 240 adults and 248 children (51% of the clients served), representing a 13.8% increase in children served compared to the prior year. Eighty-five percent of clients exited to positive housing destinations, and 70.2% of households increased or maintained income. Overall, HOS served 184 households and provided 64,739 nights of shelter.

HOS sustains its programs through a diverse funding strategy, including government (federal, state, and local) and private grants, private donations, net revenues from fundraising events, and third-party fundraisers. HOS operates seven Thrift Stores in the Chicagoland area, providing mission visibility and awareness, and whose net proceeds go toward the agency’s programs and services. Additionally, HOS volunteers significantly impact the community. In fiscal year 2025, over 600 dedicated individuals contributed hours to HOS’s programs and operations, equating to a diversion of $1.7 million. This strategy ensures no single funder is solely responsible for supporting a program or initiative, and funds are flexibly directed to the areas of greatest need.

Total Project Budget: 8,554,963

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Goverenment and Non-Government

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Northeren Illinois
Age Group To Be Served: 0-21

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Kim
Contact Last Name: O’Brien
Contact Title: Grant Writer
Contact Phone: 8152715444
Contact Email: kobrien@hosparrow.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Elev8 Baltimore, Inc.
Legal Name (if Different): Elev8 Baltimore, Inc.
Also Known As: Elev8 Baltimore, Inc.
Mailing Address: 210 W 28th ST, 1st floor
City: Baltimore
State: MD
Postal Code: 21211-3054
Main Phone: 5034101882
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.elev8baltimore.org
Employer ID Number: 46-0889783
Organization Tax Status: 501 c 3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/18/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Elev8 Experience Corps
Project Description:

Experience Corps tutoring through Elev8 Baltimore is an intergenerational program that brings older adult volunteers into schools to support early literacy and student development. The program pairs trained tutors—often adults aged 50 and older—with elementary school students, focusing primarily on improving reading skills by the end of third grade, a critical milestone for long-term academic success.

Within Elev8 Baltimore, Experience Corps operates as part of a broader community school model that integrates academic support with family engagement, health services, and enrichment opportunities. Tutors work consistently with the same students, building strong, supportive relationships that boost confidence, motivation, and classroom engagement. Sessions typically include one-on-one or small group reading practice, literacy activities, and individualized attention tailored to each student’s needs.

Beyond academic gains, the program fosters social-emotional growth. Students benefit from having a caring adult mentor, while tutors gain a sense of purpose and connection to their community. This reciprocal model strengthens both youth outcomes and community well-being.

Experience Corps also collaborates closely with teachers and school staff to align tutoring with classroom instruction, ensuring that support is targeted and effective. By embedding this program within Elev8 Baltimore schools, it contributes to a holistic approach to student success—addressing not just literacy, but the broader ecosystem that helps children thrive.

Total Project Budget: 178,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): AARP Foundation (committed), AmeriCorps (pending)

Project Duration: September 2026-June 30, 2027
Geographical Area Served: Baltimore City
Age Group To Be Served: Elementary (7-10 years old)

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.):
Contact First Name: Alexandria
Contact Last Name: Warrick Adams
Contact Title: CEO
Contact Phone: 5034101882
Contact Email: aadams@elev8baltimore.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Bar None Pathways, Inc.
Legal Name (if Different): n/a
Also Known As: n/a
Mailing Address: 10330 Highway 6 Suite D #5010
City: Missouri City
State: TX
Postal Code: 77459
Main Phone: 410-241-1121
Main Fax: n/a
Organization Website: barnonepathways.org
Employer ID Number: 39-4686450
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3) public charity

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/18/26
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Bar None 2027 Law School Access Cohort
Project Description:

Bar None supports college juniors and seniors of color, ages 20 to 21, as they prepare for law school and begin building pathways into the legal profession.

Despite decades of diversity initiatives, the legal profession remains significantly underrepresented by attorneys of color. Students from underserved backgrounds, including students of color, face barriers well before they apply, including limited exposure to legal careers, the high cost of LSAT preparation, and a lack of structured mentorship. As law school admissions become increasingly competitive, students with access to test preparation, advising, and professional networks are better positioned to navigate the process, while those without these resources face a clear disadvantage in preparing competitive applications.

Bar None addresses these gaps through an eight month Law School Access Program that provides LSAT preparation, individualized coaching, and group support. Participants receive guidance on school selection, personal statement development, application strategy, and timeline management, along with mentorship and a community of peers navigating similar decisions. The program serves students nationally, including participants from Virginia and Florida, with a partnership at Hampton University.

This work is grounded in the understanding that admission alone does not resolve the barriers that affect long term success in the profession. Bar None is building a model that begins with admissions support and extends into continued mentorship, skill building, and professional training to help participants enter the legal field with confidence. By providing access to law school and the tools to persist and succeed, Bar None helps open pathways to careers that offer long term economic mobility, professional stability, and leadership opportunities.

Building on insights from initial implementation, Bar None is refining this model for its 2027 cohort to strengthen readiness and provide consistent support. Funding will support LSAT preparation, individualized coaching, and continued refinement of the program model and curriculum.

Total Project Budget: $50,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Law School Admission Council (Pending), Camelback Fellowship (Pending), Pollination Project (Confirmed), Individual contributions (Committed & Ongoing)

Project Duration: March 2027–October 2027
Geographical Area Served: National, with a concentration in Virginia through a partnership with Hampton University
Age Group To Be Served: 18-21 (primarily 20-21)

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Nicole
Contact Last Name: Harris-Crest
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 410-241-11121
Contact Email: nicole@barnonepathways.org