Hous Foundation camp participants. L to R: J'Ana, Jakyla, Hous Foundation Executive Director Sonya Thesing, Girls LEAP founder Gabriela Edon, Yanleh, Liyah When London arrived at Girls LEAP Camp, she probably didn't expect to leave knowing how to sew. By the end of the week, the fifth grader proudly shared, "I can use a back stitch to sew my own things now." It's a simple statement, but it represents something much bigger—a young person discovering she is capable of learning a new skill and...

Sometimes one small moment can turn into something big. For Henry, age 12, it started with a test run in Soap Box Derby. He gave it a try, had a lot of fun, and decided right away he wanted to keep going. “I did the test run and it was really fun,” Henry said. “I decided to do it.” More Than Just Racing Henry loves racing down the hill, but that’s not the only thing he enjoys. “Having fun. Playing with friends between races. Going down the hill,” he said when asked about his favorite part....

Hous Foundation Activity Scholarship recipient Ki'Marra Jones (standing, third from right) as a member of the dance ensemble for the Short North Stage production of the Wiz in November and December of 2025. When Ki'Marra Jones steps onto a stage, she brings years of hard work, confidence, and joy. The Gahanna Lincoln High School senior has been dancing since she was six years old, learning majorette, hip hop, ballet, and contemporary. Of all the styles, majorette has her heart. “It’s the...