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About ENA Foundation

ENA Foundation is a community-driven nonprofit based in Odenton, Maryland, dedicated to empowering youth through arts, culture, mentorship, and meaningful experiences. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to explore their creativity, build confidence, and discover their full potential.

Our Story

The ENA Foundation Inc. was established in April 2014 in honor of a remarkable woman whose life was devoted to serving children and youth. ENA stands for “Enhancing, Nurturing, Assisting”, a reflection of both her legacy and the mission that continues today.

Ena served as a midwife and nurse, dedicating her professional life to caring for others. While she did not always have the financial resources to directly support the children and youth she worked with, she never allowed that to limit her impact. Instead, she consistently sought out opportunities, connections, and resources to uplift and assist those in need, always finding a way to give, guide, and support.

Her compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to others became the foundation of what ENA represents today.

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 Our Mission

ENA Foundation exists to enhance, nurture, and assist youth by providing access to creative arts programs, cultural enrichment, and mentorship opportunities that inspire growth, confidence, and leadership.

Community Gardening Activity

Our Vision

We envision a community where every young person has access to the resources, support, and opportunities needed to thrive creatively, academically, and personally.

What We Do

Arts & Cultural Programs

We provide hands-on experiences in music, visual arts, and cultural activities that allow youth to express themselves creatively.

 

Mentorship & Youth Development

We connect young individuals with mentors who guide, support, and encourage personal growth and confidence.

 

Community Events & Experiences

Through events like Jazz & Joy, we bring the community together while raising funds to support youth initiatives.

 

Scholarships & Educational Support

We offer scholarship opportunities to help aspiring young creatives pursue their education and passions.

2017 Gala
2023 Masquerade Gala
2017 Gala
2023 Masquerade Gala

Why Arts & Culture Matter

We believe that arts and cultural experiences are a universal language—one that transcends barriers and opens doors for expression, confidence, and connection.

Every child deserves the opportunity to explore their creativity, discover their talents, and develop the skills that will carry them into the future.

Through exposure to the arts, youth gain more than creative ability—they gain confidence, discipline, perspective, and a sense of belonging.

Our Commitment to Youth

ENA Foundation is committed to enhancing the lives of youth by:

  • Providing access to arts and cultural experiences

  • Supporting mentorship and personal development

  • Creating opportunities for education and growth

  • Connecting families and youth with meaningful resources

 

We strive to be a trusted resource within the community, continuing Ena’s lifelong mission of uplifting others through care, connection, and opportunity.

Rooted in Community, Serving Odenton & Beyond

ENA Foundation proudly serves youth and families in Odenton, Maryland and throughout Anne Arundel County.

Our work is grounded in the belief that strong communities are built by investing in the next generation and that every young person deserves access to opportunity, creativity, and support.

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Meet Our Board Members

Fulfilling ENA's mission through community and acts of service.

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Esther Parker

Founder & President

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Gale Stephens

Programs Director

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Carolyn Nelson-Goedert

Chair, Scholarship & Mentorship

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Autumn Wilson

Consultant

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Derrick Byrd

Consultant

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Chris Brown

Historian

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Brenda Buck

Co-Chair, Resource Development

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Teresa Willis

Treasurer & Consultant

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Evangela Butler

Chair, Programs & Grants

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Roxanne

Rhinehart

Consultant

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