Meet the Founder
Tom and Bonnie Sanford founded Project PATCH in 1984 in response to their recognition of a need to provide Christian placement alternatives to young people who were at-risk.
Tom served as a pastor for 15 years, during which time he negotiated with juvenile courts to provide alternatives to detention for numerous young people. Tom and Bonnie initially opened their own home to temporarily house over 100 youth. However, they quickly realized the need was greater than a pastor and his home could provide.
Tom, in his position as Executive Director of Project PATCH, is a frequent guest speaker, travels extensively to share about PATCH, and is sought after to share on issues of parenting and developing non-profit organizations.
He is the author of, "If Parenting is a Three-Ring Circus: How Come I'm Not the Ringmaster? Creative Ways to Raise Great Kids!". This is an informative and fun book for parents which incorporates humorous insight and practical solutions for raising great kids.
Tom, along with Kay Rizzo, authored a second book, "The Wounded Healer", which chronicles his difficult childhood, his personal healing process, and the miracles of starting and sustaining PATCH.
Tom and Bonnie are the parents of two grown children, a son and a daughter. They are grandparents to two adorable girls born two weeks apart. Tom's hobbies have included flying, travel, meeting people and telling jokes. Tom and Bonnie live in Sequim, Washington.