#United States #Houston #Petra Cares #Kimberly Elliott #Foster Care

Petra Cares Welcomes Kimberly Elliott as Development Director

Petra Automotive Products proudly announces the appointment of Kimberly Elliott as the new Development Director for Petra Cares, its nonprofit branch. With nearly two decades of extensive experience in nonprofit fundraising, event organization, and community outreach, Kimberly is set to significantly contribute to Petra Cares' mission of assisting young adults aging out of foster care.

Under Kimberly's leadership, Petra Cares aims to build upon its successes in empowering at-risk youth through transformative job training and placement initiatives within the automotive repair sector. Kim possesses a proven track record, having spearheaded over 45 fundraising events that raised millions for various nonprofits. Her commitment to fostering community engagement will be crucial in amplifying Petra Cares' outreach and impact.

Brian Meza, Executive Director of Petra Cares, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Kimberly's dedication to community service and her substantial experience in nonprofit development will be invaluable as we further extend our reach and enhance our influence on the lives of young adults. Her insight into community generosity will be instrumental in gathering the necessary resources to assist more students and transform lives."

In its inaugural year, Petra Cares has achieved remarkable milestones, including the graduation of 34 young adults, with 82% either continuing their education or securing employment as technicians in the Houston area. These accomplishments showcase the organization's commitment to providing complimentary auto mechanic training, job placements, transportation, tools, and educational materials to youth grappling with serious obstacles such as homelessness, incarceration, and poverty.

As Arnold J. Gacita, Founder of Petra Cares, noted, "While we are proud of our successes in just one year, there remains much more work to be done. Kimberly's expertise will be vital in expanding our program to reach additional young people eager to forge better futures for themselves."

Petra Cares has recently celebrated the graduation of 15 students from its latest cohort at Lone Star College, with more than 70% of them now employed in the automotive repair field. The organization has ambitious goals for the future, planning to widen its scope to Los Angeles and increase its annual cohorts to support 75 students in Houston and 50 in Los Angeles by the close of 2025.

As Development Director, Kimberly Elliott will spearhead development strategies, cultivate partnerships with community leaders, and secure the financial backing necessary to sustain and expand Petra Cares' initiatives. In her own words, Kimberly stated, "I am thrilled to become part of an organization whose mission resonates so deeply with me. Petra Cares is not merely altering the lives of these young adults; it's fostering stronger communities for generations ahead."

For those wishing to learn more about Petra Cares or contribute to its mission, further details can be found at petra-cares.org.

About Petra Cares

Founded in 2021, Petra Cares operates as the charitable division of Petra Automotive Products, Inc. Its mission is to 'unlock purpose for the vulnerable' by dismantling barriers to education and empowerment for young adults who lack parental support. For more information, visit petra-cares.org.