About The HEY Project
Helping Empower You.
The HEY Project is a York County–based nonprofit delivering mental-health–informed, social-emotional wellness programming for youth, young adults, and families across Central Pennsylvania.
HEY stands for Helping Empower You. We exist because too many young people are expected to “just handle it” without being taught how. Through structured, creative SEL programming and community outreach, we build real coping tools, strengthen emotional awareness, and create safe spaces for expression — so people feel supported, connected, and equipped.
Why We Exist
Why This Work Matters
In schools and communities, young people are navigating anxiety, pressure, trauma, and emotional overwhelm at earlier ages than ever before — yet many are never taught how to identify what they’re feeling, regulate their responses, or communicate safely.
The HEY Project was created to change that.
We don’t offer inspiration alone. We offer tools.
Our Approach
Where Creativity Meets Emotional Skill Building
Our programs combine creative expression with structured social-emotional learning principles. Every workshop is designed to be:
- Mental-health–informed and safety-centered
- Developmentally appropriate
- Interactive and hands-on
- Grounded in SEL skill-building
- Built to strengthen coping tools — not just motivation in the moment
- Aligned with CASEL's SEL framework to support key competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making
We use creativity as a bridge — because it lowers defenses, invites honesty, and makes emotional learning accessible. Our lessons are designed to reinforce SEL skill development in ways that are practical, age-appropriate, and easy to apply in school and everyday life.
H.E.Y. is mental-health–informed and non-clinical.
We do not diagnose or provide therapy. We provide prevention-oriented skill-building, supportive programming, and connections to community resources.
CASEL is a framework reference; HEY is not affiliated with or endorsed by CASEL.
Leadership
Meet the Founder
Founded by Celeste Kaough, The HEY Project grew from hands-on youth enrichment experience and deep community engagement in York County. Celeste leads program design and partnership development with a focus on safe, supportive delivery and measurable growth.
Celeste Kaough
Founding Executive Director
Leading HEY’s mission, programming, and community partnerships since founding.
Carita Cassell
Board President
Guiding governance and organizational strategy as HEY grows its community impact.
The HEY Project is governed by a 7-member board and is a woman-led, minority-led, community-rooted nonprofit.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
Creative Expression as Connection
We believe creativity opens communication, builds confidence, and supports emotional growth.
Safety & Care
We create spaces grounded in emotional and relational safety — every session, every time.
Community-Rooted Collaboration
We work alongside schools, families, and local partners to strengthen the whole community.
Empowerment Through Skill Building
We teach practical tools youth and young adults can carry beyond the classroom.
Integrity & Accountability
We communicate clearly, document responsibly, and grow with purpose.
Where We Work
Rooted in York County
The HEY Project proudly serves York County and surrounding Central Pennsylvania communities. Through partnerships with schools and community organizations, we’re building a network of support that strengthens homes, classrooms, and neighborhoods.
We currently deliver programming in 8 York City K–8 schools through our partnership with ReProgram York, and are actively expanding to serve more schools and community organizations across Central PA.
Bring HEY to Your School or Organization.
Whether you’re a school administrator, foundation partner, nonprofit leader, or community organization, we would love to collaborate.