Founded in 2014 by Kathryn Thomas, a Navy Veteran, Yoga 4 Change is built on the vision of a world where people impacted by trauma feel supported, connected, and empowered to live a healthy and joyful life.

When Kathryn realized the impact yoga had on her overall health and well-being, especially after her transition from active-duty military to Veteran, she wondered if that same transformation might be possible for others like her.

It was a lofty goal at the time. But their impact speaks for itself. 

Yoga 4 Change’s professionally trained instructors go directly to the source, introducing yoga and mindfulness as powerful tools for overcoming trauma. 

This approach allows them to better connect with the diverse populations they work with, including veterans and active military, youth, justice-involved individuals, individuals living with mental health conditions, those in recovery from substance use disorders, and survivors of human trafficking.

One of Yoga 4 Change's flagship programs is its Alumni Program.

“Our alumni program is to create a safe space for people to continue practicing yoga and to have a community of people,” explained Breanna Tivvis, Director of Foundation and Corporate Relations at Yoga 4 Change.  

“What we do really well is take yoga programming into partner facilities and offer yoga programs to individuals. Through that, one of the gaps we identified was people going to yoga at a recovery center and having insurance covering just four weeks. Where would they continue to take yoga when sessions might now cost $30 per class? The Alumni Program is to bridge that gap.”

Participants in the Alumni Program have access to various resources, including wrap-around services, adjunct physical and mental health resources, life skills training, and even opportunities like yoga teacher training. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals experience healing and growth during their time in Yoga 4 Change programs and have the tools and support to continue their journey toward wellness long after.

As one participant explained, “This program helps me mentally and physically and has made me feel good about myself again. I want to work out and join classes on the outside. Yoga helps me think in a more positive way and to be able to do more. Thank you, all!”

Yoga 4 Change's impact extends far beyond the yoga mat, too. Their trauma-informed, evidence-based mindfulness resources provide a pathway to inner strength, emotional release, and positive transformation. 

With over 100 facilities throughout the State of Florida offering their programs, Yoga 4 Change has touched the lives of countless individuals, helping them work through and release negative emotions, find inner peace, and cultivate a positive outlook on life.

That’s why Chive Charities wanted to help support their mission and further their impact on the lives of veterans, active-duty military, youth, and more.

With your generous donations, Chive Charities funded a $5,000 grant for the Alumni Program. This program is more than just a continuation of yoga classes—it’s a lifeline that helps participants stay connected, supported, and empowered. 

As the grant from Chive Charities fuels the growth and reach of the Alumni Program, more individuals will have the opportunity to heal, grow, and become ambassadors of change within their communities.

It’s a powerful thing and shows how the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness create lasting change, one breath at a time. 

To our donors and supporters, thank you for making this possible. Many years ago, Yoga 4 Change set out with a lofty goal, and Chive Charities did, too. It’s not just yoga. It’s not just a donation. It’s a gateway to life-changing impact. Let’s make the world 10% happier, together. Namaste. DONATE HERE.