Turning Setbacks Into Stepping Stones.
We believe that a past conviction should never define a person's future. TLH Nonprofit was built on that belief and every program, every partnership, and every team member reflects it.
Why We Exist.
TLH Nonprofit exists to bridge the gap between incarceration and opportunity — providing returning citizens with the tools, resources, and support they need to rebuild their lives with dignity.
Our Vision
A world where every person leaving incarceration has a clear, supported path to stability, purpose, and belonging.
Dignity
Every person deserves to be treated with respect, regardless of their past.
Empowerment
We equip individuals with tools and knowledge to take ownership of their journey.
Community
Lasting change happens when people support one another through shared experience.
Accountability
We hold ourselves and our partners to the highest standards of integrity.
Hope
We believe transformation is possible for everyone willing to take the next step.
Legacy
Everything we do honors Troy's vision and the lives he dedicated himself to changing.
Troy Leon Harrigan
Founder
Built From Lived Experience.
Troy Leon Harrigan founded TLH Nonprofit after navigating his own reentry journey and experiencing firsthand the barriers that make rebuilding a life so difficult from transportation and identification to employment and mental health support.
What began as a personal mission to fill those gaps grew into a structured organization offering nine distinct programs, each designed to address a specific obstacle that returning citizens face.
Troy's legacy lives in every client served, every license reinstated, every job secured, and every family reunited through TLH's work.
His vision continues to guide the organization's growth, partnerships, and commitment to treating every individual with the dignity they deserve.
"I built what I needed but never had. If one person walks out of incarceration and finds a door open instead of closed, then this work matters."
People Who Have Walked This Path.
Our team is made up of individuals who bring both professional expertise and lived experience to their work because we believe the most powerful advocates are those who truly understand the journey.
Troy Leon Harrigan
Founder
Troy founded TLH Nonprofit after his own reentry experience revealed the systemic gaps that returning citizens face. His vision and leadership have shaped every program and partnership the organization has built.
Catarina Mendes
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & President
Provides strategic leadership and oversees TLH's mission, programs, organizational development, partnerships, and long-term vision. Leads initiatives that strengthen community impact, expand resources, and ensure the organization continues honoring Troy Leon Harrigan's legacy.
Kyla Horton
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & Interim Board Chair
Oversees financial planning, budgeting, financial reporting, and fiscal accountability. Supports responsible resource management, funding strategies, and organizational sustainability while providing interim board leadership.
Casper Fort
Chief Operating Officer (COO) & Interim Vice President
Oversees daily operations, internal systems, organizational procedures, and operational efficiency. Supports team coordination, technology integration, and the development of processes that strengthen TLH's ability to deliver services effectively.
Abigail Velazquez
Director of Development
Leads organizational development initiatives, funding opportunities, donor engagement, and strategic relationship building. Supports grant development, resource expansion, and long-term organizational growth.
Jaisa Pratt
Director of Outreach & Community Development
Leads community outreach, relationship building, and partnership development. Connects TLH with organizations, resources, and opportunities that increase awareness, strengthen community engagement, and expand support for the individuals we serve.
Dominique Mendes
Lead Coordinator — Butterfly Experience
Coordinates the overall Butterfly Experience, supporting client engagement, program coordination, and service delivery. Helps ensure clients receive organized, compassionate assistance throughout their journey with TLH.
Aaliyah Lamarre
Client Intake Coordinator
Coordinates client intake appointments, initial communication, documentation, and consultation preparation. Helps guide prospective clients through the intake process and connects them with appropriate next steps and available TLH services.
Xavier Owens
Fundraiser Coordinator
Coordinates fundraising activities, campaigns, and community giving initiatives. Supports event planning, donor engagement, and fundraising opportunities that help sustain TLH programs and services.
Join Us in This Work.
Whether you want to volunteer, partner with us, or simply spread the word — there is a place for you in this mission.