The Henry Allen Munson Owen Foundation has supported Upsilon Theta Sigma in their first active semester not only through the awarding of a scholarship but also in promoting their values and name as it is congruent with their mission. The HAMO Foundation is an organization named after and in honor of Henry Alan Munson Owen. Henry passed away from suicide on September 17, 2020, at the age of 17. Henry knew no strangers. He was outgoing and had a love of life that was contagious to all who crossed his path. Those closest to Henry will tell you Henry was always an “old soul" and he was devoted to helping others. Henry would brighten their days with flowers or simply with his ear-to-ear grin. The HAMO Foundation was created to continue Henry’s legacy.
Upsilon Theta Sigma supports the HAMO Foundation as they work with communities to raise awareness and provide accessible tools around mental health. Henry loved to read and The HAMO Foundation encourages reading and literacy through Henry’s Helpers. Early in 2021, a group of classmates and friends created a way to honor Henry’s love for reading. Beginning with some scheduled events during a local Iowan farmers market, friends, teachers, and classmates volunteered to hold a read-aloud time where anyone was welcome to sit in and listen to some old and new favorite children’s books. Henry’s Helpers continues to grow across the country and has hosted over 275 hours of read-aloud. The HAMO Foundation also offers scholarships as a message of hope to those who share and embody Henry’s spirit. In their second active semester, Upsilon Theta Sigma hopes to serve as Henry's Helpers.
The HAMO Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. All proceeds go directly towards supporting their mission: to work with communities to raise awareness and provide accessible tools around mental health.
To learn more about the mission and initiatives of The HAMO Foundation, visit their website:
National Suicide Prevention Hotline
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Move Mindfully
Zero Suicides
On Our Sleeves
The Movement for Children's Mental Health
If there is an immediate safety concern, please ALWAYS dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room