May 11, 2025 3 min read

This article is part of a month-long series spotlighting the people behind Blueprints, a nonprofit organization working to eliminate poverty through impactful community programs in Washington County, Greene County, and parts of West Virginia. To learn more about Blueprints, go to myblueprints.org.

Blueprints is a community action agency with a powerful mission: to break the cycle of poverty by empowering individuals and families with the tools and support they need to become self-sufficient and build better futures. Today we meet a leader with an integral role at Blueprints, Barbara Saunders, Director of the Building Futures program.

Saunders is relatively new to Blueprints-she joined the team in 2024-but she has a rich career history in non-profits, public service, and mental health. She brings a wealth of experience to her new role, drawing on her experience as program director of school-based programs, where she led mental health initiatives in schools and early learning centers across vulnerable communities in the Pittsburgh region.

“I take pride in working for organizations with the mission to empower others,” she says.

Saunders has worked with advocacy groups at local and state level and has provided training and consultation for mental health providers. One of her most meaningful roles was as a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, an experience that solidified her belief in the power of prevention and education. Saunders also pursued a Certification in Public Health, allowing her to bring both practical experience and academic insight to her work at Blueprints.

“I feel fortunate to bring both my experience and new knowledge to Blueprints,” says Saunders, of her new role. Saunders leads a dedicated team of managers and staff by ensuring that services are operating as designed, providing information and training to staff, and reviewing the outcomes of the programs.

The Building Futures program provides essential services to individuals who want to build a better future for themselves and their families. The program includes creating actionable plans for building financial independence, homeownership, and career development. They provide support services for reentry from the Washington County Correctional Facility or the Greene County Prison, to establish housing and employment. Building Futures works to prevent homelessness in those who are at risk and can help individuals secure housing, assist with foreclosure, and repair credit.

Blueprints also supports individuals with career development, helps with budgeting and saving money through individual coaching and participants can even qualify for a matched savings account program.

“It’s a good feeling to know your day-to-day effort is focused on the greater good versus individual achievement or prosperity,” she says.

She recalls an individual who participated in the Blueprints’ Team Dad classes at the jail. At the final class, inmates write a Future Story to reflect on their past experiences and envision the goals they want to achieve. One participant had been in jail before his son was born and had yet to meet him. His story talked about a renewed purpose of creating meaningful experiences with his once he is released.

“This story reflects how individuals can alter their path in life. It starts with choosing your direction. Our services can be short-term or long-term -sometimes lasting years. We’re here to partner with you on your journey,” says Saunders.

Sponsored content brought to you by Blueprints.