After 10 years, THRU Project co-founder Elaine Andries Hartle hands over the reins to new CEO Courtney Laverty.San Antonio nonprofit THRU Project is entering a new era of leadership, partnership and growth in its mission to bridge the critical gap between foster care and independent adulthood through mentoring and support services.
THRU Project began as a mother’s quest for resources for her two foster sons before they aged out of care at age 18. Realizing the need for transitional services, Hartle founded the mentorship program in 2011 after repeatedly asking the same question:The statistics were shocking. Former foster youth have the highest risk factors for homelessness, unemployment, substance abuse, unplanned pregnancy and incarceration. While homeless, they are easy prey for human trafficking and violent crime.
With the mentoring program in place, Hartle noticed how the lack of transportation and communication hindered their progress. Even when their lives seem on track, buried childhood traumas and suppressed grief can arise and thwart their progress. Hartle said they learn how keeping a job, paying their bills, and saving money builds the foundation for their transition to independence. For college students whose state aid halts at age 21, it allows them to stay in school knowing they have a safe place to live and study. It also offers much needed stability for young mothers who have lost — or are at risk of losing — their own children.
In July 2021, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services contracted THRU Project to house 10 young adults who choose to stay in extended foster care. This Supervised Independent Living Program adds a new layer of case management and expense. The state covers the cost of rent, utilities and groceries, but not THRU Project staff’s collaboration in case management.In September 2021, Hartle turned over the reins to the new CEO to take THRU Project to the next level.
“My goal is to grow our program so that we can serve not only every one of those foster youths, but any former foster youth living in our community,” she said. “This can only happen with more financial resources so we can grow our small staff and broaden our reach while simultaneously building community awareness among potential mentors. We also need to increase awareness among youth in foster care who may not be familiar with our programs.