The THRIVE Network: Everyone Paddles at the Same Time!

Charles A. Archer is the co-founder and CEO of The THRIVE Network, which offers programs and services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the New York metro area. Archer is also the author of the book, “Everybody Paddles: A Leader’s Blueprint for Creating a Unified Team.”

Connect, Serve and Grow

The THRIVE Network is a 501(c)(3), whose mission is to help individuals and families in need, in their own way, find their way to success. Under Archer’s leadership, the organization will now include multiple services for ALL. From early education, supporting individuals with physical and developmental disabilities, social rehabilitation programs and support for the elderly and homeless, The THRIVE Network is committed to helping these individuals get back on their feet by providing the right tools and resources needed to enable individuals to become more productive. independent, productive and a member of our community.

We were lucky to meet with Archer, the humanitarian and visionary behind this successful and bold non-profit organization to discuss The THRIVE Network’s proudest story, mission and achievements.

MJ: How did you become involved with the nonprofit world?

CA: About 24 years ago, I started working with people with disabilities as a hands-on support professional. I had the opportunity to go to college by day and work by night and what I’ve learned over the years is that people with disabilities want the same things out of life that I want. This realization prompted me to dedicate my life to providing that type of service to these people.

In 1996, when I co-founded the Evelyn Douglin Center for Serving People in Need (EDCSPIN), at that time, there was an amazing need to find service and support for underserved and underserved communities. Fast forward to 2016, we are where we are providing support to underserved individuals and their families and expanding our services and demographics.

MJ: What is your passion behind kids and early education? What other issues really hit you?

CA: As the oldest of eight kids, with a slight 15+ year gap with several people, that makes my life’s work both an inspiration, and a testament to their unconditional support. For example, two of my siblings have learning disabilities and witnessing their difficulty accessing this vital service prompted me to want to make a difference. Particularly with education, I have observed that housing, economic and social limitations stop both kids and adults from obtaining proper construction. As a result, my personal and experienced experiences are based on my own reality and became my passion.

Another passion of mine is fighting stigma. I strive to help those in need with disabilities, past incarnations, immigrants and those with economic challenges. Society has marginalized people into labels that don’t allow those who are underserved to get ahead. As a result, this stigma prevents all of us from moving forward because we have victimized these groups.

MJ: The THRIVE network has a robust name and a robust meaning behind it. What does the word THRIVE mean to you and your organization? Compared to other nonprofits, what sets you aside from the rest?

CA: THRIVE means ‘UNLIMITED.’ As an advocate who believes in the likelihood and opportunity for everybody to contribute, THRIVE represents how our services, programs and foundations speak on behalf of those in need; our beneficiaries, families, staff and communities to attain their life goals.

The THRIVE Network’s culture sets us aside from other nonprofits because everybody’s contribution has value, expectations, and relevance to our success. And better of all, our culture is all encompassing; everyone seems to be welcome to take part in our network.

MJ: What are some of your advocacy goals and where do you want to drive the conversation?

CA: In terms of discussions about intellectual and developmental disabilities, healthcare and delivery systems are changing. From a non-profit perspective, we understand that there has to be change, but we need to watch out about changes that are drastic and fast. When it comes to government, if you want to say that you want to protect and serve all New Yorkers, you must back that up with action; it cannot just be a philosophy. There must be implementation.

MJ: You’ve built a significant organization and have attracted many high-profile individuals and celebrities to support your endeavors. Do you consider this to be one of your proudest accomplishments with the foundation?

CA: My proudest moment as Founder and leader of The THRIVE Network is one having been active for twenty years in which we have helped them reach their full potential through programs and services, job support, and influencing policy discussions. Celebrity endorsements are an added bonus for us meaning people understand and can appreciate what we do together as a team for others.

MJ: You are the author of the summary essay on leadership philosophy, “Everybody Rows.” What was the inspiration for the book, and what’s your personal leadership philosophy?

CA: In “Everybody Paddles: A Leader’s Blueprint for Creating a Unified Team,” I outline six principles that I believe can create a culture of change, a culture where people believe they matter and want to add value in the workplace. Over the years—I’m a lawyer and that I also teach around town—I’ve noticed that quite a lot of people come to work and they feel unappreciated. There’s a sense that people are wondering, “Do I have anything of value to contribute and will anyone notice?”

“Everybody Paddles” has become a guide for people to understand that you’re expected to add value to The THRIVE Network or wherever you may be. This position could be home, work, community, education, politics or any other area of life. We do not just want iton Monday or Friday. We want it five days a week, and your colleagues want it, and the people we serve want it. It’s also about the concept that following is as important as leadership, and without one you cannot have the other.