Summary

This post appeared originally on the CHILDREN AT RISK website: https://childrenatrisk.org/opportunityyouthannouncement2025/

CHILDREN AT RISK (C@R) is excited to announce we have received a $200,000 grant from the Trellis Foundation to strengthen our advocacy initiatives supporting Opportunity Youth and Young Adults (OYYA) across Texas.

This critical funding will power our efforts to improve outcomes for young Texans aged 16-24 who are disconnected from both education and meaningful employment opportunities.

Powering Change During the 89th Legislative Session

With the Trellis Foundation’s support, our team will:

  • Advocate for systemic policy changes benefiting OYYA during the 89th Legislative Session
  • Disseminate critical data to inform decision-makers
  • Build consensus among stakeholders
  • Engage communities directly affected by these issues
  • Develop a collaborative strategy for the 2026 Sunset Review

“We are deeply grateful to the Trellis Foundation for their support of our mission,” said Dr. Bob Sanborn, president and CEO of CHILDREN AT RISK. “This funding will be used to advocate for policies that improve the lives of Opportunity Youth.”

A Shared Vision for Texas Youth

The partnership between CHILDREN AT RISK and the Trellis Foundation represents a shared commitment to ensuring all young Texans have pathways to success.

“Ensuring a talent-strong Texas requires that we support a no-wrong-door approach to education, training, and workforce preparation – particularly for students who have stopped out of our formal education systems,” said Kristin Boyer, President and CEO of Trellis Foundation. “Trellis Foundation is proud to support this vital work and looks forward to seeing the positive impact of CHILDREN AT RISK’s advocacy on the lives of Opportunity Youth and Young Adults across Texas.”

About Trellis Foundation

Trellis Foundation advances equitable educational opportunities in Texas by supporting postsecondary programs, practices and systems that reduce disparities and lead to success for low-income students and students of color. More information is available at www.trellisfoundation.org.

About CHILDREN AT RISK

CHILDREN AT RISK is a non-partisan research and advocacy nonprofit dedicated to understanding and addressing the root causes of child poverty and inequality. Established in 1989 by Houston child advocates and researchers, CHILDREN AT RISK has grown into a statewide organization tackling Texas children and families’ most pressing needs. Learn more at https://childrenatrisk.org/.