Every Child

Deserves a Chance to Succeed

At ONGB, we believe in the power of community to change lives. Founded by three Oakland natives who faced their own struggles with education, our mission is to ensure every student—regardless of their background—has the support and resources they need to thrive.

Every Child Deserves a Chance to Succeed

At ONGB , we believe in the power of community to change lives. Founded by three Oakland natives who faced their own struggles with education, our mission is to ensure every student—regardless of their background—has the support and resources they need to thrive.

A Community-First Mission

We are dedicated to uplifting youth to prosper and grow with authenticity, kindness, and self-confidence. Starting in Oakland, CA, we saw how curated support could transform lives. Today, our mission extends across the globe, helping communities combat chronic absenteeism, boost graduation rates, and inspire young people to dream big.

We believe in SHARING IT FORWARD—giving back to foster success, nurture today’s youth, and provide the resources they need to become tomorrow’s leaders.

Through innovative programs and a passionate commitment to educational equity, ONGB has

Distributed thousands of fully-loaded backpacks to kickstart school years.

Launched programs like the Girls Equity Movement (GEMs) to close attendance gaps for young women.

Partnered with educators and organizations to create sustainable solutions to chronic absenteeism.

ABOUT ONGB

Established in 2008 by three Oakland-native Black women with a love for their community, Oakland Natives Give Back is a collection of innovative, community-first programs and funds designed to combine community efforts to help inspire, educate, and uplift the future leaders.

EDUCATE

EMPOWER

INSPIRE

UPLIFT

OUR MISSION

We create and scale innovative solutions that empower young people and improve educational equity.

OUR VISION

A world where all children receive a quality education and the tools they need to succeed.

Being a part of GEMs was an experience that will always mean a lot to me. It taught me a lot about myself and even more about how to start a business. It's worth the experience and if you ever get the chance you should experience it as well.

— Asha T.

GEMs Alumn

My name is Zion Bill, and I want to say thank you for keeping me focused and supporting my future. The program helped me regain my focus, showed me the importance of going to class on time and attending school consistently, and helped me build bonds with people from different backgrounds. I truly appreciate everything.

— Zion.

From Achievement Influencer Program

My name is Tyler Shank. I'm a part of the Achievement Influencer Program. This program helped me increase my attendance by a lot and become a better role model to my peers. It put money in my pocket and, uh, it's overall the best program I've been in.

— Tyler S

From Achievement Influencer Program

There is no way around it: If we want the youth of today to succeed, we have to start uplifting them to feel safe, empowered, and inspired to dream big.

These statistics are concerning, but the good news is that they are not set in stone! Together, we can work towards improving these statistics. By donating to or getting involved with ONGB, you are standing up to say that our children deserve the best, and actively choosing to be a part of positive change to help students achieve their dreams – and beyond!

i’m in! what’s next?

We’re thrilled to have you on board! ONGB collaborates with schools, parents, and communities to create impactful programs designed to uplift students and provide them with the resources they need to thrive. Through targeted grants and tailored initiatives, we work together to address chronic absenteeism, foster academic achievement, and prepare the next generation of leaders.

Our Programs Make a Difference – AND YOU CAN BE A PART OF IT!

We believe that every action, no matter how small, contributes to building a brighter future. Our programs are designed to address the critical challenges students face, from chronic absenteeism to the lack of educational resources. By joining us, you can directly impact the lives of students, empowering them to succeed academically and beyond.

Our WORK focus

FOR SCHOOLS

WE ARE YOUR COLLABORATOR

Partner with us to strengthen your school’s impact. We provide comprehensive capacity-building services, including conducting home visits to re-engage families, supporting attendance and COST meetings to address challenges, and assisting with tailored attendance plan creation. Our team offers accountability partnerships to keep initiatives on track, outreach to reconnect with disconnected students, and data-driven intervention advisory for measurable improvements. Together, we can create meaningful change and ensure student success.

BE INVOLVEDclick here to learn how to be involved

FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS

WE ARE YOUR ALLY

We partner with districts to drive impactful change through qualitative and quantitative research, uncovering valuable insights to inform decisions. Our offerings include professional development workshops, specialized courses, and certifications to empower educators. Additionally, we provide leadership coaching to strengthen district-wide initiatives and foster a culture of growth and innovation. Together, we can shape a stronger future for education

BE INVOLVEDclick here to learn how to be involved

For FAMILIES and STUDENTS

We Are the Bridge

We serve as the vital connection between home and school, working to provide meaningful support, raise awareness, and eliminate barriers that hinder daily attendance. Together, we empower students and families to thrive academically and beyond.

BE INVOLVEDclick here to learn how to be involved

FOR RESEARCH

We Are Your Partners in Progress

At ONGB, we believe that data tells the story behind every student’s attendance journey. Our research services are designed to empower schools, districts, and policymakers with actionable insights that address absenteeism at its roots. From trend analysis to program evaluation, we provide evidence-based strategies that bridge gaps and create measurable impact.

By turning complex challenges into clear solutions, ONGB supports educators and administrators in fostering environments where students thrive and attendance improves. Together, we turn research into results that shape brighter futures.

BE INVOLVEDclick here to learn how to be involved

For MENTAL HEALTH

We Are Your Advocates for Mental Health

At ONGB, we recognize that mental health is essential for a student's success both in and out of the classroom. Our mental health initiatives aim to remove barriers to attendance by providing the emotional tools and support students need to thrive. From counselling sessions to wellness workshops, we empower students to navigate challenges like trauma, anxiety, and social isolation.

Together with our community partners, we create a network of care that fosters resilience, strengthens families, and builds brighter futures. Because every student deserves to feel seen, supported, and ready to succeed.

BE INVOLVEDclick here to learn how to be involved

At ONGB, we’re transforming school attendance through innovative, data-driven strategies. With Attendance Learning Institute (ALI), we collaborate with schools, communities, and parents to create personalized solutions that fight chronic absenteeism. Our hands-on approach combines professional development, targeted funding, and expert support, making a measurable difference in student attendance.

Join us in empowering students and breaking barriers—because every day in school counts.

Programs within the

Attendance Learning Institute

GIRLS EQUITY MOVEMENTEmpowering the Next Generation of Women Leaders

ACHIEVEMENT INFLUENCER PROGRAMConnecting Future Leaders to their Futures through Stem Exposure

EVERYDAY COUNTS ATTENDANCE CHALLENGEMotivating PK-12 Students with Cash Incentives and Prizes for Strong Attendance

Empowering the Next Generation of Women Leaders

The Girls Equity Movement (GEMs) is dedicated to creating transformational change by equipping young women with the skills, networking, and leadership abilities needed to make a lasting impact on their communities and the world. We strive to build a space where young girls can thrive, grow, and confidently pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all.

connecting future leaders to their futures through stem exposure

The Achievement Influencer Program connects high school seniors with skilled professionals dedicated to youth development. Participants sharpen workplace skills, build community, and grow as influential leaders—all while receiving a monthly stipend (up to $4,500 per school year).

motivating PK-12 students with cash incentives and prizes for strong attendance.

EDCAC is an awareness campaign that is designed to inspire consistent school attendance the foundation for lifelong success. EDCAC makes showing up exciting and rewarding! Healthy attendance habits are essential, so we award up to 10 cash awards of $500 monthly and have various other larger prizes.

Professional Development

ONGB’s Professional Development services empower educators and community leaders with cutting-edge training to meet the diverse needs of today’s students and families. Through workshops, mentorship, and resources, we enhance skills in equity-driven practices, mental health integration, and innovative teaching techniques.

Together, we prepare professionals to inspire, lead, and create meaningful change.

Join us in shaping stronger leaders.

CONTACT US

capacity building

Our Capacity Building services focus on strengthening organizations and schools with the tools and strategies needed to drive long-term success. Leveraging funding from transformative initiatives like the EIR Grant and CYBHI, we help build collaborative networks, implement advanced technologies, and address critical challenges. The result? Resilient systems that foster brighter futures for students and families.

Partner with us to create lasting impact.