Friends of Explore Austin
Connect. Give Back. Have Fun!
Friends of Explore Austin is a new group of young, working professionals who care about Explore Austin’s mission and want a way to stay connected to our community. Whether you’re a program alum (Mentor, Explorer or Trip Leader) or just looking for a way to plug into the young-professional scene in Austin with a nonprofit that’s empowering youth from economically disadvantaged communities, Friends of Explore Austin is here to facilitate connection, philanthropy and having fun!
Upcoming Events
winter warmup: 2/13/25
Friends of Explore Austin Committee
Lyles Carter
Flynn Construction, Inc.
“As someone who grew up loving outdoors activities, I know it not only creates incredible memories but fosters confidence and leadership abilities. The mission of Explore Austin is a powerful one that hits home to me – showing the next generation how to adapt and overcome challenges, be resilient, and develop leadership skills through the outdoors that will last a lifetime. Friends of EA is a way to give back, build connections, and learn from others. Getting involved in Friends of EA means not just growing your network but making a lasting impact on your community.”
Lyles is a sixth-generation Austinite, an avid outdoorsman and the business development manager at Flynn Construction. Lyles grew up on family ranches in the Hill Country where he first became enthralled with the outdoors. He has been actively involved in the real estate business in Central Texas for over 10 years. Lyles has always valued building strong relationships within the local community and demonstrates leadership roles with several community organizations, including the Muny Conservancy Advisory Board (Save Muny), Tarrytown Methodist, Urban Land Institute (ULI) and Real Estate Council of Austin (RECA).
Lyles attended the University of Texas at Austin, earning a B.A. in Government and a Business Foundations Certificate in 2015. Outside of the real estate world, you can find Lyles with his kids, Davis and Clara, wife, Whitney, and their Irish Setter, Waylon on the hike and bike trail or out on Lake Austin.
Lauren Dwyer
Benchmark Bank
“I am looking forward to raising awareness and engagement in our young-professional network about Explore Austin’s mission, which not only builds confidence and leadership skills in the underprivileged youth of Austin but also fosters a deep appreciation for nature and exploration. It is fun to think about this group taking off and cultivating a new generation of leaders who are passionate about outdoors, leadership and community development!”
Lauren is the Marketing and Community Relations Director at Benchmark Bank, where her expertise in event planning and community engagement shines through in her community involvement and Austin relationships. Originally from Houston, Lauren has lived in Austin since graduating from the University of Texas at Austin in 2015, where she now resides with her husband, their two beloved dogs, and a baby boy on the way this spring!
Growing up in a ranching family, Lauren developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and adventure at a young age. This upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility for fostering these values in others, particularly in adolescents. Lauren’s upbringing, enriched as well by experiences at summer camp, highlighted the importance of outdoor activities and exploration during formative years, making her particularly enthusiastic about the mission of Explore Austin. Lauren is eager to leverage her professional network to promote this mission, encouraging young professionals to engage with and support Explore Austin’s mission and community.
Lauren graduated from UT Austin with a BA in Communication Studies and a minor in Business. Through her work at Benchmark Bank, she is deeply rooted in the Austin community, dedicating her time to a multitude of organizations and community work. In her spare time, Lauren enjoys all of the outdoor perks of Austin, playing mahjong with her friends and spending time at the ranch and lake with her family.
Carolyn Houren
S3 Ventures
“I’m getting involved in the Friends of Explore Austin group to foster connections among young professionals passionate about community engagement. Engaging with nonprofits like Explore Austin is crucial for young professionals as it offers opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the community while developing leadership skills. I support Explore Austin because of its dedication to empowering youth through outdoor adventure, mentoring and educational programs, making a lasting impact on our future leaders.”
Carolyn, a Houston native, moved to Austin to fully embrace her passion for outdoor activities and the city’s dynamic lifestyle. As an early-stage investor at S3 Ventures, she partners with entrepreneurs to build innovative companies in business technology, digital experiences and healthcare technology. Passionate about giving back, Carolyn has served as a mentor across multiple organizations in venture capital and at the University of Georgia, championing the life-changing value of mentorship in shaping careers and personal growth.
Carolyn earned her BBA in Accounting and International Business, as well as her Master of Accountancy, through the University of Georgia Honors Program. She has remained an engaged alumna by serving on the UGA Terry Young Alumni Board and leading the Emerging Venture Capitalist Association’s Austin Chapter. In her free time, Carolyn enjoys practicing yoga, exploring Austin’s live music scene, and spending time at Zilker Park with her dog, Nacho.
FAQs
How do I join?
If you are career-focused, eager to network and passionate about giving back to Austin, we’d love to see you at our next event! Check out our upcoming events here.
How many events do you hold annually?
We aim for once a quarter. Activities include networking events, like happy hours and coffee chats, volunteer opportunities, and fun ways to connect in nature, like paddling and rock climbing. Check out our events calendar to see what’s coming up!
I’m not an “event person.” Should I still join?
1,000% yes! Being a part of Friends of Explore Austin gets you access to exclusive mission updates from Explore Austin’s leadership. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to champion Explore Austin via virtual fundraising campaigns, lunch-and-learns at your organization(s) and in your own community. Contact Blair Adams, Events Manager to learn more about the goals for Friends of Explore Austin.
May I serve on the committee?
Absolutely! Contact Blair Adams to learn more about committee responsibilities.
Additional Questions?
Contact Blair Adams, Events Manager, at blair.adams@exploreaustin.org.
