Resources

SPARK is a student-led, non-profit organization located in Maryland that fosters curiosity and passion among future science professionals through interactive workshops, newsletters, research opportunities, and note-trading systems. SPARK aims to empower students with the knowledge, resources, and connections needed to be successful in the evolving world of science. SPARK currently focuses on four branches of science: biology, physics, mathematics, and environmental science.

MONUMENTAL:

A student-led organization, MonuMental works closely with teenagers to develop outreach material and help destigmatize mental health throughout Howard County. In order to execute this plan, MonuMental creates original social media content, publishes student-written educational material, and hosts quarterly Zoom meetings. Students, teachers, and residents of Howard County can share their own experiences, provide guidance, and attend the Zoom meetings free of charge. MonuMental continues to work towards our goal of providing free support and a safe, relatable space for all teens across the nation!

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health!

NOTICE: If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, CALL 911 immediately!

GRASSROOTS:

- Free, 24-hour mental health, substance use, crisis and homeless services support to individuals and families.

- Call 410-531-6677, call/chat/text 988 or walk in anytime at 8990 Old Annapolis Road, Suite A in Columbia.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE:

- HC Drug Free: a place for prevention, rehabilitation, and resources.

- 5305 Village Center Drive, Suite 206, Columbia, MD 21044

- (443) 325-0040

- www.hcdrugfree.org

- nfo@hcdrugfree.org

HOTLINES:

- 988 is the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline

- Abuse https://www.thehotline.org/

- Click the red “X” in the upper-right corner or “Escape” button on your keyboard twice at any time to leave TheHotline.org immediately.

- Relationship Abuse (dating, romantic, sexual, etc.) https://hopeworksofhc.org/

- Click "Quick Escape" to leave at anytime

- Human Trafficking https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en

- Click the red “Quick Exit” in the upper-right corner to leave immediately.

- Help for runaways https://www.1800runaway.org/

- If you need a place to stay: https://grassrootscrisis.org/emergency-shelter/

- Maryland Specific Hotlines https://health.maryland.gov/bha/Documents/httpshealth.maryland.govbhaDocumentsMaryland%2520Crisis%2520Hotlines.pdf.pdf

- Hotlines including help finding a psychologist, do not be afraid to ask for help.

LINKS:

- The Trevor Project - LGBTQIA+

- Directory of Behavioral Health Services for Youth in Howard County - includes resources for autism, ADHD, speech & language therapy, and social workers

AUTHORS NOTE:

I'm gonna be blunt, life sucks. I won't make a false promise about "everything getting better". Even so, if it seems hopeless, know that I, the girl writing this, want you to be safe and happy. It may take days, months, years, decades even. But please try, if not for yourself, then for someone else who knows that life sucks and just wants you to have the chance to one day maybe - at the very least - live happier and healthier.

ECONOMIC RESOURCES

Authors note: I don't know who needs to hear this, but it is okay to ask for help. You are no stronger for struggling alone and no weaker for asking help from others. You are not a burden. :)

HONOR SOCIETY FEES:

Honor Society Cares Application

AP FEES:

https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/exam-administration-ordering-scores/ordering-fees/exam-fees/reductions