Seeds of Hope
Learn more about Seeds of Hope and the impact we have already had on our community. Learn about our initiatives and how you can help.
Seeds of Hope: Growing Wellness in Our Community
Seeds of Hope, an initiative of Blossoms of Hope, focuses on cultivating mental health awareness, resilience, and self-care throughout Howard County.
Our three-branch approach supports wellbeing from childhood through adulthood, creating a lasting culture of hope and connection.
Elementary School Branch: Calming Corners & Zen Dens
For our youngest learners, we fund and implement Calming Corners and Zen Dens — safe spaces within classrooms that help students self-regulate, refocus, and return to learning.
We began this initiative at Stevens Forest Elementary School and Laurel Woods Elementary School, where teachers and students have seen remarkable results.
Our goal is to expand to every Title I and Community School in Howard County.
Through our Calming Corner Grant Program, schools can apply for funding to design and implement spaces that promote emotional balance and wellbeing.
Grant applications open November 10 – December 12
Grantees announced in late December/early January
The process will reopen twice a year or as funds permit.
Middle & High School Branch: Fostering Hope Summit & SHAPE Club
To support mental health during the critical teen years, Seeds of Hope offers opportunities for connection, learning, and leadership through:
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The Fostering Hope Summit — a high-energy, hope-filled event that empowers students, educators, and families to build stronger mental health foundations.
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The SHAPE Club (Seeds of Hope Ambassador Peer Empowerment Club) — a student-led initiative that promotes mental health awareness, self-care, and service among peers in grades 7–12.
Together, these programs help students develop resilience, empathy, and leadership skills that they carry beyond the classroom.
Community Branch: Respite Spaces & Heroes Grove
Beyond schools, Seeds of Hope brings restoration to the broader community through Respite Spaces — areas designed for reflection and renewal.
Our most meaningful example is Heroes Grove, a serene community space honoring those who serve while offering all visitors a place to pause, breathe, and recharge.
These spaces serve as reminders that caring for our mental wellbeing is vital at every stage of life.
Funding & Sponsorship Opportunities
Funding for Seeds of Hope programs comes from:
- Grants
- Sponsorships
- Donations
- The Annual Seeds of Hope Fundraiser
Sponsors help bring these programs to life — expanding Calming Corners, empowering students through the Summit and SHAPE Club, and supporting Respite Spaces like Heroes Grove.
Sponsors are recognized:
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On our website and social media
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In event and program materials
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And, when applicable, within the spaces they help create
Together, we’re growing a healthier, more compassionate community — one seed of hope at a time.
A Message From Dr. Shafeeq Ahmed
Dr. Shafeeq Ahmed, President of Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center talks about the needs in our community around mental and behavioral health.
Seeds of Hope Sponsors
