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Carl Hilliard named Executive Director of Tulsa Boys' Home

Carl Hilliard Appointed as New Executive Director of Tulsa Boys' Home

TULSA, Okla. — In a significant leadership transition for one of Tulsa's longstanding nonprofit organizations, Carl Hilliard has been named the new Executive Director of Tulsa Boys' Home. The announcement, made by the organization's board of directors, marks a new chapter for the residential treatment facility that has been serving at-risk youth for nearly a century. Hilliard, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in youth services and nonprofit management, steps into the role with a vision to enhance the home's programs and expand its impact on the community.

Tulsa Boys' Home, founded in 1918, has long been a beacon of hope for boys facing challenges such as behavioral issues, family disruptions, and emotional difficulties. Located on a sprawling 160-acre campus in Sand Springs, just outside Tulsa, the organization provides residential care, education, counseling, and life skills training to boys aged 12 to 18. Over the years, it has helped thousands of young men turn their lives around, offering a structured environment that emphasizes personal growth, academic achievement, and emotional healing. The home operates under a philosophy that every boy deserves a second chance, blending therapeutic interventions with recreational activities to foster resilience and self-sufficiency.

Hilliard's appointment comes at a pivotal time for the organization, as it navigates the evolving landscape of youth mental health services amid increasing demands post-pandemic. With rising rates of adolescent anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders, facilities like Tulsa Boys' Home are more critical than ever. Hilliard, who brings over 25 years of experience in social services, is poised to lead the home into its next phase of development. His background includes key roles in similar organizations across the Midwest, where he has specialized in program innovation and community partnerships.

Prior to joining Tulsa Boys' Home, Hilliard served as the Director of Operations at a prominent youth residential center in Kansas City, where he oversaw a team of 50 staff members and managed budgets exceeding $5 million annually. Under his leadership there, the center implemented evidence-based therapeutic models that reduced recidivism rates among participants by 30 percent, according to internal evaluations. Hilliard's expertise extends to fundraising and grant writing, having secured significant funding from state and federal sources to support expanded mental health initiatives. He holds a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma and is certified in trauma-informed care, making him particularly well-suited to address the complex needs of the boys at Tulsa Boys' Home.

In a statement released by the board, Chairman Robert Ellis praised Hilliard's selection, noting his "proven track record of transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to vulnerable youth." Ellis emphasized that the search for a new executive director was thorough, involving input from staff, alumni, and community stakeholders. "Carl's passion for empowering young people aligns perfectly with our mission," Ellis said. "We are confident he will build on our legacy while adapting to the challenges of today."

Hilliard himself expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, highlighting his personal connection to the Tulsa area. Born and raised in Oklahoma, he has deep roots in the community and has volunteered with local youth programs for years. "Tulsa Boys' Home has been a cornerstone of support for boys in need for over 100 years, and I'm honored to lead this incredible organization," Hilliard stated. "My goal is to strengthen our programs, foster stronger ties with families, and ensure every boy who comes through our doors leaves equipped for a brighter future."

The transition follows the retirement of the previous executive director, Gregg Conway, who served for more than a decade and oversaw significant expansions, including the addition of on-site vocational training facilities. Under Conway's tenure, the home modernized its campus with updated dormitories, a state-of-the-art gymnasium, and enhanced counseling centers. Hilliard plans to build on these advancements by introducing new initiatives, such as integrating technology into education and therapy sessions. He envisions partnerships with local tech companies to provide coding workshops and digital literacy training, preparing residents for the modern workforce.

Community leaders have welcomed the news, recognizing the vital role Tulsa Boys' Home plays in addressing juvenile delinquency and family crises. Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum commented on the appointment, saying, "Organizations like Tulsa Boys' Home are essential to our city's fabric. Carl Hilliard's experience will undoubtedly elevate their efforts to support our youth." Similarly, representatives from the Tulsa Public Schools system, which collaborates with the home on educational programs, expressed optimism about continued cooperation.

Delving deeper into the organization's history provides context for Hilliard's new role. Established during a time of social upheaval following World War I, Tulsa Boys' Home was initially created to house orphaned and abandoned boys. It evolved through the decades, surviving economic depressions and adapting to changing societal needs. In the 1960s, it shifted focus toward therapeutic care, incorporating psychological counseling influenced by emerging child development theories. Today, the home serves approximately 50 boys at a time, with a staff of licensed therapists, educators, and mentors who provide round-the-clock support.

One of the home's standout features is its equine therapy program, where boys work with horses to build trust, responsibility, and emotional regulation skills. Hilliard has indicated plans to expand this and other experiential therapies, potentially adding adventure-based activities like ropes courses and outdoor expeditions. These programs are designed to complement traditional therapy, helping boys process trauma in non-verbal ways.

Financially, Tulsa Boys' Home relies on a mix of state funding, private donations, and grants. Hilliard's fundraising acumen will be crucial as the organization seeks to increase its endowment and reduce dependency on government support. He has already outlined strategies to engage more corporate sponsors and alumni donors, aiming to create scholarships for post-residential support, such as college tuition assistance or job placement services.

The impact of Tulsa Boys' Home extends beyond its residents. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers in fields like business, education, and public service, often crediting the home for their turnaround. Stories of transformation abound: one former resident, now a local entrepreneur, attributes his success to the life skills and mentorship he received. Hilliard aims to amplify these success stories through enhanced alumni networks, using them to inspire current residents and attract more community involvement.

As Hilliard assumes his duties, he faces challenges common to youth services organizations, including staff retention in a competitive job market and adapting to regulatory changes in child welfare. However, his proactive approach suggests a forward-thinking strategy. "We must innovate while staying true to our core values," he said. "That means listening to the boys, supporting our staff, and collaborating with the community."

In summary, Carl Hilliard's appointment as Executive Director represents a blend of continuity and fresh vision for Tulsa Boys' Home. With his extensive background and passion for youth advocacy, he is well-positioned to guide the organization through future growth. As Tulsa continues to address the needs of its young population, the home remains a vital resource, offering hope and healing to those who need it most. The community watches with anticipation as this new era unfolds, confident in the positive changes ahead.

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Read the Full Fox 23 Article at:
[ https://www.fox23.com/news/carl-hilliard-named-executive-director-of-tulsa-boys-home/article_8b9b035b-022d-4647-bb44-6d9bf2ece653.html ]