About

We build

We empower students to believe in their potential through immersive college tours, hands-on seminars, and mentorship—equipping them with the tools to pursue academic and personal success with conviction.

1. Student’s Confidence

2. Voice

We create a vibrant community of students, professionals, families, and volunteers to build bridges between underrepresented youth and higher education.

3. Understanding

We cultivate environments where understanding of self and history allows for future possibilities and opportunities. Acknowledging the past while embracing the future creates compassion, awareness, and mutual respect.

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Meet the Team:

CEO

  • Ms. Jacobs is a dedicated youth-development leader with extensive experience directing after-school programs, mentoring initiatives, and community services throughout Fresno and Madera Counties. Her leadership roles include Project Director at Fresno EOC, Director of the Highway City Science Center with Fresno County PARCS, and Site Director with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno.

CFO

  • Every day, Officer Jones provides guidance, mentorship, and accountability to help young people make responsible decisions.

    Collaborating closely with teachers, administrators, and parents to respond to concerns and ensure a secure learning atmosphere lead to a desire to form Mary Ann's Hands with Ms.Kym to further create a steady presence and resource for students as they navigate the challenges of high school to college.

Volunteer Program Consultant

  • Mrs. Turney is an educator and nonprofit program leader with over 25 years of experience in college access and leadership development. A Fresno State alumna and former scholar-athlete, she has led HBCU college exposure programs nationwide and passionately supports students in reaching their full potential through leadership and higher education pathways.

Guided by compassion, Mary Ann's Hands empowers students from middle school through community college with transformative leadership development, academic enrichment, and meaningful college exposure experiences. We are an all-inclusive organization committed to serving students and families from all communities and walks of life by expanding access to opportunities that inspire confidence, broaden perspectives, and prepare them for future success. We firmly believe that where a student begins does not determine their potential for greatness. Our commitment to student success is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses unique strengths, talents, and purpose waiting to be discovered, developed, and realized.