Let's talk about the school-to-prison-pipeline
Our mission is to help youth and their families find hope and purpose beyond trauma.
Statistics prove that children living in poor neighborhoods are more likely to suffer from traumatic incidents, like witnessing or being the victims of violence, neglect, or abuse. These kids also struggle with daily stress caused by food or housing insecurities and overworked, underemployed, stressed-out parents. Children who have gone through abuse or other trauma have a higher risk of developing a mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Unfortunately, schools have not been equipped to support these needs; and once a youth enters the juvenile justice system, it is hard for them to find their way out. Research proves that exclusionary disciplinary practices (e.g., suspensions, alternative school programming, and/or expulsions) often change the trajectory of their education and land them directly in the school-to-prison pipeline. Our approach is to work side by side with schools and families to disrupt this system.
Ways You can Help
Gifting OnPurpose
Almost half (46%) of Houston families are living below the poverty level. Of those families, 47% are Black or Hispanic. Many are uninsured and dealing with trauma, stress, and mental anguish.
Grant funding only takes us so far in our mission to support individuals on their journey to healing and self-sufficiency. We have a very strong reputation in our communities and with our partners. These are just some of the assets that have set us up to lead, expand, and sustain our movement. We need help from companies and people like you to help us grow and continue to make a difference.
Single Contributions
Make a One-Time Donation
Planned Giving
Schedule a Monthly Contribution
comprehensive counseling & support
Our Services
School-based
Therapy
Our school-based therapists work within elementary, middle, and high school facilities
Therapeutic Afterschool
Anxiety therapy to help students respond to stressful situations from a place of peace and security
Prevention
programs
Our programs give students the skills to resist social pressure to fight, smoke, drink, and use drugs
Family Support
Services
Our team of caring professionals helps families rebuild their lives and get back on track


OnPurpose president & ceo
Renae Johnson, MPA, PhD Student
As the founder of OnPurpose, I am humbled by what our team has built over the past six years. I am even more excited about where we can go next! By increasing access to mental health, healing can happen! Children and families can discover relief, life-inspiring purpose, and resilience.
Our hope is that a whole-person approach to supporting individuals on their journey to healing and self-sufficiency levels the playing field for poor black and brown communities.
We have a strong foundation already, with an eye on continued healthy and strategic growth. As you get to know more about OnPurpose, I hope you can envision yourself as a future partner or donor in some capacity.