The IE in our name means “I’m enough” because we believe in people.

Through creative skills-based education, collaborative leadership development, and holistic well-being, our mission is to empower young people from historically marginalized communities.

Ordinarie Heroes aims to be more than just a nonprofit organization. Our hope is to inspire others to use their passions, voices, skills, resources, and ideas to create a better world. There is transformative power in creating genuine relationships through quality engagement. We believe community is our greatest superpower so our approach is always founded in inclusion, dignity, and joy. The best part is you don’t need a cape or superpower to join the fun!

We believe in order to effectively cultivate the potential of young people, we must also support the environments which surround them. We are committed to the belief that addressing the issues faced by their communities goes hand in hand with breaking the cycle of systemic disadvantage and creating a brighter narrative for young people. Through creative programming and community partnerships, we work toward equitable access to quality education and food stability.

Our core values not only reflect who we are but also guide us toward who we hope to be. They are what directs our decision making and actions.

Connection

Connection is the heartbeat of our organization because unity makes us strong and community is our greatest superpower. The power of connection allows us to build bridges, understand one another, and collectively navigate the human experience. It’s impossible to understand the significance of our work without first connecting with the people we serve and work alongside.

Character

Respect for others serves as our cornerstone and creates an environment where authenticity and integrity can flourish. Our joy for our work not only brightens our shared experience but also reflects the passion and enthusiasm we bring to everything we do. Together, these values build a culture where every person is valued, and their uniqueness contributes to our vibrant collective character.

Progress

Innovation and creativity are the engines that power our mission for today and propel us toward a brighter tomorrow. Not only do they help us address present needs but also lay the groundwork for sustained improvement and lasting change. Our commitment to seeing progress is a pledge to continually innovate in order to help build a community where every person, regardless of their starting point, will thrive over time.