Founded in 2008, Thread is an organization that rallies volunteer community support around underperforming students in Baltimore public high schools. Students who are facing major life challenges: poverty, homelessness, family breakdown or single parents who are overwhelmed by work, illness or other problems, are identified in the ninth grade and are in the bottom 25 percent of their classes academically and are often chronically absent. Thread connects them with a team of up to five volunteers who commit to support them in any way necessary, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for 10 years. The benefits of the student/volunteer relationships flow both ways and are designed to leave lasting imprints not only on the students, but also on our volunteers. By creating a new social fabric, where relationships are woven strong among students, volunteers and collaborators, Thread fundamentally alters the definition of “family” and cultivates communities that transcend barriers, creating a future where everyone thrives.
