A Mission For Hope
Stories for Stars is an independent for-profit organization founded on one simple mission: Hope. With suicide rates growing, society becoming more tumultuous, and kids’ reading less than ever-before, something needs to change. There are a variety of organizations, charities, and influencers trying their best to change the direction of how we perceive mental health and the epidemic surrounding it. Stories for Stars is focused on becoming a mainstay. A household name. Something that can surpass the limits of what we once thought possible. An innovative, inexpensive, all-inclusive program that can comfortably sit in the homes of anyone and everyone needs to be brought to life, and that is exactly what we plan to do.
This program was founded, created, and brought to the world by Evan Nova. An EMT-B and Nursing Assistant who first-hand saw the extent of the epidemic daily when teenager after teenager sat in the ER for suicidal ideation. With a background in business, storytelling, writing, and creating characters- he set forth on the mission you have discovered today!
Below, you will find some backstory on the team that came together to build this program!
The Creator/Founder/Author
Evan Nova
With a deep obsession with the Stars, a love for art, desires to change the world, and passion to provide more mental health resources worldwide- Evan Nova set forth on a mission to combine all of that into one program: Stories for Stars!
By 12 years old he was writing poetry, songs, and short stories. By 18, he had written his very first novel! In his adult years, he found success working in the medical field as an EMT and Nursing Assistant- where he first-hand saw the extent of the youth suicide epidemic. By the time he was 23 years old, his true love for Entrepreneurship became clear- and he set forth to build a beautiful program that can aid in this fight. With extensive experience writing stories, creating characters, and developing creative concepts- his vision for Stories for Stars was one he knew he could bring to life.
You can read his Mission Statement below which covers more of his background, how this program came to life, and what his vision is all about!
Childcare Specialist/Parent Educator
“M.J.” Maretta Johnson
MJ, owner of MJ2 Coaching, empowers families to increase their emotional intelligence to gain control of their mental wellness and strengthen our communities. MJ2 Coaching, changing lives through inspirational speaking (articulation) in combination with workbooks/journals (literacy) to connect with one person/family at a time.
Star Note: M.J. is responsible for validating and developing all of the educational material through the program. She is a creative, highly-experienced woman who can never be thanked enough for her contributions. You will see her all across the program, so please make sure to check out her website and share your appreciation for her!!
Illustrator
Elen de Souza
"Since I was a little girl I've always leaned towards the creative side of things. While studying to be a Graphic Designer I also found myself in illustration and since then I fell in love with illustrating stories and bringing characters to life."
Star Note: Elen was gracious enough to portray her beautiful illustrations as “Ralphie’s Paintings”, showcasing her humility and dedication to our mission. She is the dream artist for anybody looking to bring beautiful characters to life.
Lead Graphic Artist
Sterki Herz
Sterki Herz was tasked with one thing: Bring our content to life! She is responsible for almost every visual you’ll find in the program: The themes for Star Stories, Star Sheets, Journal Entries, the graphics across the website- including the space background behind these words! She has risen beyond all expectations, so please check out her page if you need a designer!
Graphic Artist
Justine Buenaventura
Justine Buenaventura was tasked with some important projects across the program. He helped design & create the “Parent Guide”, the “Star Skill Showcase”, the “Superstar Checklist” and the “M.J. Resume.” With a background in both illustration and graphic design, his efforts and passion for mental health awareness are shown through his contributions to Stories for Stars.
Graphic Artist
Lewis Phillips
Lewis Phillips was first given a unique task: Design maps for “Dreambrook” (where the characters live) as well as “Planet Starlight” (where the characters venture to.) He delivered exceptionally- then he designed the “Character Bio” pages in our “Introduction Month.” He was then given a big task: The Star Shop. He designed and created both the cover photo, and the merchandise designs for the characters and Star Skills! His professionalism and dedication to our program will forever be appreciated.
Visual Artist
Khalil King
Khalil King delivered and designed what many would say is the most beloved part of the program: Star Books. The moving background, as well as the rocket ship animation and character animation were done by him. His passion for contributing to our mission and his belief in this program is undeniable, and our belief in him is mutually felt!
