Starr Commonwealth has become the forever home for Transition to Success® (TTS), an evidence-based framework that addresses the condition of poverty through a coordinated, systems-based standard of care.
Created by Dr. Marcella Wilson, Transition to Success reframes poverty as a condition shaped by environmental exposures to the social determinants of health, rather than a personal failing. The model provides organizations with structured tools and protocols to assess needs, coordinate services, and track measurable outcomes.
Transition to Success is currently being implemented across the country by health agencies, education institutions, nonprofits, 211 centers, and other community organizations serving individuals and families experiencing poverty. The work has received national recognition, including coverage by CBS Evening News, The New York Times, and the Clinton Global Initiative.
“For more than a decade, I have searched for a forever home that shares our vision to transform how our nation understands and responds to poverty. Starr Commonwealth brings the leadership, infrastructure, and long-term commitment needed to steward and expand this work for generations.”
Dr. Marcella Wilson, Founder of Transition to Success.
Transition to Success has already established a national network of certified trainers, coaches, and community-based C.A.R.E. Networks that integrate human services, government, education, healthcare, and faith-based organizations under a shared framework.
The TTS model includes:
- A foundational training and certification process
- A screening tool that measures Social Determinants of Health
- A client-centered “Map of My Dreams” goal-setting protocol
- Accountable service tracking standards
- Independent evaluations demonstrating statistically significant outcomes
“Transition to Success aligns deeply with our mission to help children, families, and communities flourish—and poverty is often the barrier to that mission.”
Elizabeth Carey, President and CEO of Starr Commonwealth
The partnership began in 2024 when Starr hosted Dr. Wilson for a community forum and later implemented the TTS framework within its own youth empowerment programs.
“We quickly found what many existing TTS adopters already knew—it works,” Carey said. “Now we want to grow the TTS network and help train the world in its approach.”
Dr. Wilson will remain actively involved in a consulting and advisory role, helping guide the continued development and expansion of Transition to Success.
To learn more about Transition to Success and upcoming training opportunities, visit starr.org/tts or contact tts@starr.org.
