

EARLY THRIVER
PROGRAM


Early Thrivers successfully fundraised over $4,000 to curate and distribute over 200 kits to individuals experiencing homelessness during the initial wave of the COVID pandemic. Included were items such as handcrafted facemasks, blankets, water bottles, and reusable THRIVE ON! shopping bags. The campaign garnered recognition and distinction as the recipient of the prestigious $2,500 COV-AID Student Engagement Award from The Talloires Network for Engaged Universities in collaboration with the Open Society University Network (OSUN), securing its place among the top 10 selected initiatives from a vast pool of international applicants.
2020
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Early Thrivers raised over $4,500 to create and distribute kits tailored for individuals facing homelessness amidst the harsh winter and ongoing COVID crisis. This round of kits included meal cards, blankets, facemasks, hygiene essentials, and more. This comprehensive effort sought to alleviate the immediate challenges faced by marginalized individuals, providing them with critical resources and support during an unprecedented time of need.
2020

Early Thrivers engaged in a meaningful collaboration with community members and housing advocates to gain a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted inequalities inherent in Low or Moderate Income housing in Kingston. Through dialogue, research, and community-driven initiatives, THRIVE ON! Network endeavored to uncover the root causes of these disparities and develop strategies that promote equitable access to safe, affordable housing for all.
2021

Early Thrivers engaged in the production and sale of customized THRIVE ON! facemasks. With proceeds from this
effort, THRIVE ON! Network began work to combat food insecurity by working with community partners to distribute over 650 meals to individuals in need.
2021

THRIVE ON! Network collaborated with Citizens for Local Power in the formulation and development of a court document, which became an important resource in the collective struggle against Central Hudson's proposed utility rate increase. This collaborative effort aimed to safeguard the interests of local residents, advocating for fair and reasonable utility rates, and championing the principles of equitable access to essential services.
2021

During winter, Early Thrivers distributed more than 100 sweaters, accompanied by servings of hot cider and soup to help residents grappling with socio-economic challenges.
2020

Early Thrivers went on to create "THRIVE in the Margins," a weekly journal amplifying stories of resilience and celebrating the accomplishments of THRIVERS — individuals who defy socio-economic obstacles to make a positive impact in the community. This publication fostered connections and inspiration while illustrating triumph over adversity, showcasing remarkable achievements and underscoring the power of resilience and determination.
2021

Early Thrivers fostered connections with eminent intellectuals and visionary thinkers from diverse cultural backgrounds, facilitating stimulating conversations and knowledge-sharing
through the esteemed platform of the bi-weekly podcast, "Thinking in the Margins." By engaging with these thought leaders, we expanded the horizons of imagination, challenging existing paradigms and pushing the boundaries of what is considered possible.
2021

In partnership with the Hudson Valley Current, THRIVE ON! Network conceptualized and implemented an innovative financial literacy program for children and teens. Leveraging
the power of a complementary currency, this initiative provided young people with practical knowledge and skills related to monetary systems, economic concepts, and alternative modes of exchange. This initiative sought to cultivate a sense of agency amongst Kingston youth to promote economic empowerment within our community.
2021

Collaborated with Empower Kingston to actively promote the participation and engagement of marginalized communities in the ongoing pursuit of equitable energy policies.
2020
Youth of Today.
Architects of Tomorrow.
Early Thrivers (ETs) program provides opportunities for young adults, ages 18-24, to become social change agents. ETs are recruited from area colleges and universities and local NGOs. Projects build on the interests and skills of young people and provide them with many roles and tasks to choose from in diverse community and economic development areas. The program embodies the spirit of social responsibility, inspiring young individuals to become agents of change and empowering them to create a better future for themselves and their community, while delivering tailored learning experiences through workshops and conferences. Through their actions and initiative, Early Thrivers demonstrate the transformative power of youth-led philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of compassion, inclusivity, and collective action in building a more equitable and thriving society. Check out their projects, accomplishments, and partners below.











Our Partners and Collaborators
By the Numbers
Dollars
Raised
Through
Campaigns
$10,000+
People
Serviced
2,000+
Early Thriver Initative Success Rate
100%