Austin, TX — Easterseals Lonestar announced a new partnership with the University of Texas’ Texas Wranglers. Beginning this fall, members of the Wranglers will volunteer at Greenleaf—Easterseals Lonestar’s inclusive, neurodiverse-focused community school in Central Texas—bringing enrichment programming to students each week.

The Texas Wranglers, a service-based student organization with approximately 100 active members, have been dedicated partners of Easterseals since 1998. Their newest initiative builds on that legacy by working directly with Greenleaf students in a variety of after-school enrichment classes Monday through Thursday. Wranglers will lead hands-on activities such as e-gaming, art, karaoke, and crafting—offering structured, engaging experiences that reinforce social-emotional development, build confidence, and support improved student outcomes through consistent mentorship and interaction.

“This partnership is a wonderful example of what true community engagement looks like in action,” said Mandy Pruitt, Head of School at Greenleaf. “Our students thrive when they feel seen, supported, and celebrated—and the Wranglers bring energy, creativity, and heart into our school every day. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to our students and families.”

“The Texas Wranglers have been committed to working with Easterseals since 1998, and we're proud to continue honoring that relationship through Greenleaf,” said Ethan Eanes, President of the Texas Wranglers. “Our partnership has always been about raising awareness and making a remarkable impact on people’s lives. Greenleaf embodies those same values, and we're excited to support its mission of providing inclusive and neurodiverse care for families across Central Texas.”

Greenleaf is Easterseals Lonestar’s flagship educational program designed specifically to meet the needs of  18-22 year olds with autism and related neurodiverse conditions. The school emphasizes individualized learning, social-emotional development, and inclusive community-building.

This new partnership reinforces Easterseals Lonestar’s commitment to creating welcoming, empowering environments where children of all abilities can learn and grow. It also highlights the potential of community-driven volunteerism to transform lives.

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About Easterseals Lonestar

Easterseals Lonestar is part of The Fedcap Group and provides vital services to individuals with disabilities, veterans, and families across Texas. Through education, workforce training, residential services, and community-based programs, Easterseals Lonestar empowers people of all ages to achieve greater independence.

In 2019 Greenleaf was created to fill a critical gap in services for young adults with autism and related neurodivergent conditions. What began as a small, community-based initiative has since evolved into a vibrant, inclusive community school for learning. In 2021, Greenleaf partnered with the Austin Independent School District to become a public charter school for students ages 18 and older. Using project-based learning and the evidence-based curriculum, the school equips students with essential life and career skills in a supportive environment tailored to their strengths. Greenleaf is a certified provider through Texas Workforce Solutions, delivering vocational training, and life readiness programs.


About the Texas Wranglers

Founded in 1979 at the University of Texas at Austin, the Texas Wranglers are a spirit, service, and social organization rooted in leadership and volunteerism. With a decades-long partnership with Easterseals, the Wranglers are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of children and families throughout Central Texas.

Media Contact:

Jim Malatras, JMalatras@fedcap.org

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