About HorizonHelp

The Horizon Foundation, in collaboration with United Way's First Call for Help, has developed HorizonHelp, a web-based resource for service providers and the citizens of Howard County, Maryland. The goal of this site is to provide easy access to information on health and human service providers that serve the population of Howard County. You'll see that providers may be located outside the County, but they still provide services for the County (e.g. there are national resources that serve not only Howard County residents, but the rest of the country as well).

Whether you are looking for child care resources, services for a family member with a disability, or a local advocacy group, you'll be able to start your search here. On every page, there is a 'Click Here to Find Resources' button to take you directly to the list of providers. You can perform as many searches as necessary to find the resources to satisfy your requirements.

This web site is for non-emergency information gathering. If you are experiencing an emergency situation, you should call 911 or First Call for Help at 1-800-492-0618 or 410-685-0525.

HorizonHelp is a partnership of the following:

The Horizon Foundation

The Horizon Foundation is a philanthropy founded in 1998 to advance the health and wellness of the Howard County community. With assets in the $80 million range, it is a highly strategic organization that seeks involvement at the policy, program and project levels. Foundation goals include solidifying the community health and wellness infrastructure, improving social conditions and quality of life, increasing access to health and human services, and strengthening the integrity of local safety net programs. The Foundation funds grants for new and existing programs that are consistent with its mission.

Howard County Department of Citizen Services

The Department of Citizen Services is dedicated to high quality, comprehensive human service delivery for individuals and families. It specializes in services for older adults, youth, people with disabilities, women, homeless and people seeking consumer assistance. The Department also manages community service grants to non-profit human service agencies.

The Association of Community Services

The Association of Community Services is a network of human service providers (government, for-profit and not-for-profit), organizations and citizen advocates. Its mission is to advance human services in Howard County through advocacy, education and member services.

Howard County Office on Aging

The Office on Aging plans, develops and coordinates programs for seniors (60+), disabled citizens (55), or older adults and their families. The Office works to enrich the lives of older people across their life span, whether they live independently in the community, require assistance or are residents of long term care facilities.

Howard County Office of Children's Resources

The Office of Children's Resources oversees planning, assessment of needs identifying resources and services for children and youth. Direct services are provided through the Child Care Resource Center where families receive assistance and referrals in locating child care, the Child Advocacy Center, which is a child friendly environment that promotes comprehensive investigations and appropriate interventions for children and their families in cases of child abuse. The Office also provides administrative support for the Local Children's Board.

Howard County Library

The Howard County Library promotes lifelong learning and enrichment through access to information, a knowledgeable staff, and services in a free and open environment. They bring people together to stimulate the free exchange of ideas and a sense of community.

Coalition of Geriatric Services

The Coalition of Geriatric Services (COGS) fosters communication and cooperation among providers of geriatric services to facilitate access to resources and decrease gaps in service. COGS provides networking and information sharing to its members, as well as, educational programs, research and discussion forums.