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

Our mission is to create a holistic ecosystem of care for young people from historically marginalized communities, through education, mental health support, leadership development, and access to essential resources.

Ordinarie Heroes is more than a nonprofit organization—we are a movement for systemic change. We strive to inspire others to harness their passions, voices, skills, resources, and ideas to build a more just and equitable world. Transformative power lies in creating authentic relationships and driving change through meaningful, community-led engagement. We believe collective action is our greatest strength, and our work is rooted in principles of inclusion, dignity, and joy. The best part? You don’t need a cape or superpower to join the movement.

To truly nurture the potential of young people, we must also address the systems & environments that shape their lives. We are unwavering in our commitment to tackling the structural challenges faced by their communities, recognizing that breaking cycles of systemic inequity is essential to creating brighter futures. Through innovative programming and strategic partnerships, we advocate for equitable access to quality education, sustainable food systems, and opportunities that empower communities to thrive.

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.

Our impact areas bring our mission to life by focusing on what every young person deserves: the ability to lead, the power to speak, and the support to heal.

Leadership

Leadership begins with believing that young people already hold the strength and brilliance needed to shape their own paths. We create spaces where youth can practice real decision-making, strengthen their confidence, and step into roles that reflect their potential rather than their circumstances. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and opportunities to guide their peers, we nurture leaders who are grounded in purpose, compassion, and courage. Our work ensures that when young people rise, they rise with the skills, resilience, and clarity to lead meaningful change in their communities.

Voice

Every young person deserves to be heard, and their stories deserve a place in shaping the world around them. We amplify youth voice by equipping young people with creative tools, public platforms, and the confidence to share their experiences with truth and power. Whether through filmmaking, photography, public speaking, or community dialogue, we help youth reclaim their narratives and influence the systems that impact their lives. When young people use their voices, they not only advocate for themselves but also inspire others to imagine new possibilities.

Wellness

Healthy young people come from healthy communities, and healthy communities are strengthened by young people who feel supported, nourished, and cared for. We believe wellness is a shared ecosystem, where tending to the spaces and environments around young people is just as important as supporting their individual growth. True wellness goes beyond the absence of harm — it is the presence of safety, nourishment, and belonging. Through efforts like our mobile pantry and farm, mental health education, trauma informed practices, and access to consistent, caring relationships, we help build environments where youth and families can truly thrive.