About

Our Story

TAP’s roots stretch back to 2001 through Integral Youth and Family Project, Inc., an initiative created to enrich and empower residents in urban communities through education, enrichment, and human development. The Ascent Project was begun in 2018 to continue and expand that work.

That foundation still matters. TAP was built on the understanding that community development is about more than buildings. Lasting community strength depends on people having the opportunity to learn, grow, work, connect, and participate fully in the places they call home.

As TAP enters its next chapter, we are expanding that proven philosophy across a broader network of communities and partners. Our goal is not to belong to one property, one developer, or one funding source. Our goal is to bring a strong, adaptable human-development model wherever communities and partners are ready to invest in resident success.

Our Mission

To create long term stability in urban, under-served, communities through implementation of a comprehensive model of human and community development. TAP’s proven model focuses on supporting both the needs and the potential of individuals and families.

Our Vision

To build thriving, inclusive communities of lifelong learning where every individual has equal opportunity to fulfill their potential and lead fulfilling lives. We aspire to create a future in which the necessary resources, opportunities, and support systems for personal growth, empowerment, and community development are easily accessible.

Our Approach

Whole-Person & Whole-Family

We recognize that stability, education, employment, health, and community connection are often interconnected.

Across the Lifespan

Our model can support children, teens, young adults, working-age adults, families, and seniors.

Place-Based

We bring services close to where residents live and adapt programming to the needs of each community.

Resident -Centered

We build with residents, not simply for residents.

Partnership-Powered

We connect residents to strong networks rather than trying to duplicate every service ourselves.

Opportunity-Focused

We address barriers while also exposing residents to new possibilities, skills, careers, and experiences.

Outcome-Driven

We use data, follow-through, and measurable goals to understand whether services are creating meaningful change.

Certified

TAP is CORES Certified

CORES stands for Certified Organization for Resident Engagement & Services, a national certification administered by Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF). It recognizes affordable housing organizations with a strong commitment, capacity, and competency in resident services coordination.

Certification looks at how an organization coordinates services, staffs and funds the work, uses data and technology, builds community partnerships, and engages residents. For housing and funding partners, it is an outside validation that TAP’s resident services meet a high national standard.

Leadership

Organizational Leadership

Teaera Raines

Executive Director

Teaera Raines

Teaera Raines serves as Executive Director of The Ascent Project (TAP), where she leads organizational strategy, partnerships, and initiatives that expand opportunity for residents and families in underserved communities.

With experience in nonprofit leadership, workforce development, community engagement, and resident-centered programming, Teaera created TAP’s Live • Learn • Work service model, connecting household stability, education, workforce development, and economic mobility. She is also guiding TAP’s expansion into technical assistance and social impact strategy.

Teaera is the Founder of S.H.E. Reigns, Inc., and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education. Her leadership is grounded in building intentional partnerships and creating sustainable pathways for individuals, families, and communities to thrive.

Hope Boldon

Emeritus Executive Director

Hope Boldon

Hope Boldon serves as Emeritus Executive Director of The Ascent Project (TAP), bringing more than 40 years of experience in economic planning, human and organizational development, and community transformation. Throughout her career, she has helped lead comprehensive revitalization efforts in public housing communities across the country.

As a leader of the Investing in Youth and Families Program (IYFP), Hope was instrumental in efforts impacting more than 20,000 public housing families while managing a budget exceeding $25 million. Her expertise in program design, community engagement, organizational development, and resident-centered strategies has also made her a trusted advisor to housing authorities nationwide.

Hope’s leadership and legacy continue to inform TAP’s commitment to creating opportunities for families and transforming communities.