Glady Thacher: A Legacy of Youth Empowerment

Dear Friends of Enterprise for Youth,

It is with a heavy heart that I write to share the news of the passing of our beloved founder, Gladys “Glady” Thacher on April 3, 2025. (1929-2025)

Glady was a true force—a social worker, a philanthropist, and a woman of deep conviction who believed in the boundless potential of young people. In 1969, she planted a seed that would grow into Enterprise for Youth. For over 55 years, that seed has flourished into a vibrant ecosystem of opportunity, support, and empowerment for thousands of San Francisco’s young people. You can read more about her extraordinary life and legacy here.  

I had the great honor of meeting Glady several times. She always greeted me with a spark in her eye and the same question even though I was on staff: “Which internship are you in?” Even at 90, she lit up when she encountered someone connected to Enterprise. She never stopped believing in the power of youth—or in the responsibility of adults to uplift the next generation.

One of my favorite things Glady said was, “Listen to the youth. Just listen. Our program is fertile ground and will shape itself as long as we always stay faithful to our original mission.”

That mission endures. And today, we ask for your help in continuing it. If you feel moved to honor Glady’s incredible legacy, please consider making a donation to Enterprise for Youth in her memory. Your gift will ensure that her vision lives on—in every internship, every mentorship, and every young life transformed.

Glady left a mark that will outlive us all. Let’s keep that legacy alive, together.

With gratitude and hope,

Carlo Solis

CEO, Enterprise for Youth