South Ender Tref Borden

Doc Wayne Youth Services ("Doc Wayne"), a nonprofit innovator and provider of sport-based mental health therapy for youth, has announced the appointment of Tref Borden to its Board, bringing the total number to 14.

A philanthropic professional with over two decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, Tref was most recently Executive Director of the Fish Family Foundation, a Boston-based private foundation focusing primarily on human services for low-income individuals and families in the Greater Boston area, with a particular interest in immigration and naturalization programs. Her career in philanthropy began as Executive Director at the Tiger Foundation in New York City, which supports educational, vocational, and social services organizations focusing on the lowest-income, highest-risk populations in the city.

"Tref provides a level of philanthropic and human services expertise that will further strengthen our distinguished Board as we continue to expand both nationally and globally," commented Board Chair Shalini Kasida. "With unrelenting tragedies happening around the world, making mental health therapy access a priority for youth via training for organizations, clinicians, teachers, coaches and other development professionals is essential to helping young people and children process and heal."

Earlier on, Tref was home raising her children for ten years during which time she co-founded a faux finishing and latex paint recycling company on the South Shore. Thereafter, she worked in the investment banking industry prior to beginning her career in philanthropy.

"In light of so many children and older youth being impacted by the conflicts and strife worldwide, it is imperative that mental health supports are scaled to meet their needs to ensure the trauma they endure does not have lifelong implications," Tref stated. "Doc Wayne's evidenced sports-based approach is helping children in the U.S. and in over 25 other countries, including conflict zones, through its Champion's Network® trauma-informed training programs. I'm eager to work with this incredible organization that continues to change lives and foster hope."

Tref has served on the Philanthropy Massachusetts Board for 10 years, formerly as chair. She received a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Sciences & Economics from Dartmouth College and a Master's degree in Mindfulness Studies from Lesley University.