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.
The Woman Behind Our Name
Honoring the Life & Legacy of Mrs. Mary Ann
Mrs. Mary Ann was more than an educator and businesswoman. She was a woman of vision, compassion, and purpose who believed deeply in the potential of young people and the transformative power of education.
Her love for students was evident in her unwavering desire to see them succeed, pursue their dreams, and embrace opportunities beyond what they may have imagined possible. As a proud graduate of Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO), she understood firsthand the value of higher education and the doors it could open.
She believed that education was more than earning a degree; it was a pathway to independence, personal growth, and generational opportunity. Her passion for helping young people reach their fullest potential continues to inspire the mission of Mary Ann’s Hands (MAH).
Today, Mary Ann's Hands proudly carries her name as a living tribute to the values she embraced. Through educational experiences, mentorship, leadership development, and college exposure, we strive to continue the work she cared so deeply about.
"Her hands helped shape lives. Her legacy continues to open doors."
IN LOVING MEMORY
October 16, 2026
On this day, we pause to honor and remember Mrs. Mary Ann. Although she is no longer with us, her compassion, dedication, and belief in the power of education continue to inspire our mission.
“Her name is our inspiration. Her legacy is our responsibility.”
Mary Ann's Hands
Meet the Team:
Chief Executive Officer
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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.
Chief Financial Officer
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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
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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.
