ABOUT H.O.N.E.Y

H.O.N.E.Y. Inc. (Honoring Our New Ethnic Youth) was founded in 1983 in Eugene, OR, by a passionate group of community members, including Sarah and Randy Ross, Dona Mittasch, Bev Pile, Rose Fong, Kathy Maris, CJ Mann, and Ruben Cota. These individuals, many of whom were parents of interracial children, came together to create a space where multiracial families could find support, share experiences, and celebrate their diverse identities. Their vision was to offer a fun, safe, and welcoming environment for children and families to engage with one another, fostering connection and cultural learning.

The name “H.O.N.E.Y.” was carefully chosen to reflect the founders’ desire to raise awareness about the often-overlooked experiences of mixed-race individuals, who were frequently labeled as “other” by society. The founders recognized the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the identities of multiracial youth, ensuring that they felt seen, heard, and valued in their communities.

One of H.O.N.E.Y.'s earliest and most impactful initiatives was organizing the first community Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Eugene, which brought hundreds of people together. This event underscored the need for continued opportunities for multiracial and ethnic communities to unite, learn from each other, and celebrate diversity.

Today, H.O.N.E.Y. continues to thrive under the leadership of Niyah Ross, daughter of Randy and Sarah, who carries forward the founders' vision of empowerment, cultural awareness, and community connection for multiracial, ethnic, and underserved families across Oregon.