About Buddy Builders LLC
Buddy Builders LLC is a dedicated mentoring and coaching organization committed to supporting youth ages 5 to 21. Our primary mission is to provide comprehensive mental health services through
structured after-school programs and summer camps.
We prioritize daily check-ins with participants to assess their emotional well-being, understand their concerns, and identify any issues they may be facing. Our trained professionals offer guidance and teach coping skills to help young individuals navigate life's challenges effectively.
Our services are primarily covered by Ohio RISE, Medicaid, and other private insurance plans,
reflecting the recognition of the critical need for accessible mental health support for youth in today's society. At Buddy Builders LLC, we are committed to fostering resilience,
emotional health, and positive development in every young person we serve.
Mission Statement:
At Buddy Builders LLC, our mission is to empower young minds by providing compassionate mentorship and mental health support, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.
Guided by our core belief — "Empowering young minds, one buddy at a time" — we are dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where every youth feels valued, understood, and equipped with the skills to navigate life's challenges confidently. Through our after-school programs and summer camps, we strive to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of the youth we serve.
Empowering young minds one buddy at a time!
About Essence Johnson, Founder & President of Buddy Builders
Qualified Mental Health Specialist
Essence Johnson is a qualified mental health specialist and the visionary founder and president of Buddy Builders. As a dedicated mother of five, Essence’s personal experiences and understanding of the complexities children face today inspired her to create a supportive space for their growth and development.
With a deep passion for nurturing young minds, Essence founded Buddy Builders to provide children with essential resources and a safe outlet to express themselves. Her journey as a single mother navigating her own challenges has given her firsthand insight into the importance of mental health and emotional support for children and families alike.
Driven by a genuine desire to see kids succeed and thrive, Essence’s leadership is rooted in compassion, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of children. Through Buddy Builders, she aims to empower the next generation by offering tools, guidance, and a sense of community—ensuring they have a brighter, more promising future.
About
Dr. Rassaun Johnson,
CEO - Qualified Mental Health Specialist
Dr. Rassaun Johnson is the CO Founder and CEO of Buddy Builders LLC, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep passion for youth development and mental health. As a qualified mental health specialist, Dr. Johnson is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive support to young individuals.
With over 20 years of extensive experience working with children and adolescents, Dr. Johnson has a proven track record of making a positive impact in their lives. His involvement extends beyond mental health, having served as the President of a youth football organization, where he fostered teamwork, discipline, and leadership.
Throughout his career, Dr. Johnson has worked with children facing various challenges — from family and school issues to discipline and emotional struggles. His holistic approach combines his expertise in mental health with his genuine commitment to nurturing the well-being and resilience of every young person he serves.
At Buddy Builders LLC, Dr. Johnson leads with a passion for empowering youth, ensuring they receive the support and guidance needed to thrive both today and in the future.