- Our Story
Built On Purpose
Driven By Hope
49 Alpha was founded with a single belief: that every young person deserves a real chance at recovery — in their community, with people who genuinely care.
- How We Started
A Family Mission
49 Alpha was born from personal conviction. Co-founders Aurelia and Glen Thorne witnessed firsthand how few youth-specific recovery options existed in Southern Idaho — and how the lack of real community and purposeful activities made it impossible for young people to thrive in recovery.
They set out to build something different: a program where evidence-based therapy meets the real world. Where sobriety isn’t just about stopping substance use — it’s about rediscovering identity, joy, and community.
Aurelia holds certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and brings deep clinical expertise to every program decision. Glen and peer support specialist Mitchell Gordon complete a team that combines professional training with authentic, lived-experience mentorship.
Today, 49 Alpha serves youth across a 45-minute radius of Twin Falls and Jerome, providing free transportation so that no family’s zip code determines their child’s access to care.
- Our Core Values
What We Stand For
These aren’t just words on a wall. They’re the principles that guide every program decision, every interaction, and every step of our youth recovery journey.
Compassion First
Every interaction starts from a place of care. We meet youth where they are — without judgment, with patience, and with unwavering belief in their potential.
Evidence-Based Practice
We use clinically proven methods — including DBT — because young people and their families deserve real tools, not guesswork.
Recovery Through Joy
Sobriety is built on more than avoiding substances. We help youth through activities, community, and a life they genuinely want to protect.
Community as Medicine
Small groups foster real relationships. The connection youth build here becomes a lifelong sober support network they can rely on.
Family Partnership
We believe lasting recovery happens when families are informed, empowered, and involved every step of the way.
Equity of Access
Mental health and recovery treatment services should be available to every family and young person — regardless of income or access to resources.
“To empower young lives to break free from addiction and reclaim their futures with courage, clarity, and hope.”
– THE 49 ALPHA MISSION
- The People Behnid The Program
Meet Our Team
A small, dedicated team with deep expertise and a shared conviction that youth recovery in Southern Idaho can — and must — be better.
Aurelia Thorne, B.S.
Co Founder
Aurelia Thorne is the Co-Founder of 49Alpha, bringing over two decades of dedicated experience in the human services sector. Since entering the field in 2001, she has developed a comprehensive professional portfolio focused on supporting adults and children navigating a diverse range of developmental disabilities and behavioral disorders.
Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Aurelia serves as the strategic “heartbeat” of 49Alpha. Her leadership is defined by an unparalleled passion for youth advocacy and a visionary approach to service delivery. She is instrumental in shaping the company’s culture, ensuring that every initiative is rooted in empathy, clinical integrity, and a deep-seated commitment to improving the lives of the families they serve.
In addition to her executive responsibilities, Aurelia is a devoted mother of two. She finds balance and restoration on her ranch, where she manages a vibrant environment shared with her dogs, ducks, and chickens. This connection to the land and her family mirrors her professional philosophy: building grounded, nurturing environments that foster growth and resilience.
Glen Thorne, M.S. Ed.
Co Founder
Glen Thorne is the Co-Founder and CEO of 49Alpha, where he leverages a specialized background in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and a Master of Science in Education to drive organizational excellence and impactful service delivery.
A Veteran of the U.S. Navy, Glen integrates the discipline and mission-driven focus of his military service with deep clinical insight to address complex behavioral and systemic challenges.
Glen’s professional approach is profoundly shaped by his lived experience within the foster care system during his early childhood.
This unique perspective fuels his commitment to advocacy and provides him with an authentic understanding of resilience and the importance of structured, supportive environments. Whether navigating the complexities of business leadership or clinical strategy, he remains dedicated to fostering environments where individuals can achieve sustainable growth.
Outside of his executive role, Glen is a professional scuba diver and a dedicated collector of classic literature, with a particular appreciation for the works of Rudyard Kipling. He is a devoted husband to his wife, Aurelia, and a proud father of two sons. Glen is frequently accompanied by his service dog, Mr. Clancy, a long-haired dachshund who is a constant fixture in both his personal and professional life
DeOndre Bryant
Director of Operations
DeOndre Bryant brings over 23 years of specialized experience in the Substance Use Disorder (SUD) field to his role as Director of Operations at 49Alpha. A native of the Boise area, DeOndre has dedicated his career to mastering every facet of the treatment continuum, from front-line detox services to high-level clinical supervision.
Before joining the 49Alpha leadership team, DeOndre served as the Regional Clinical Supervisor in Boise for Behavioral Health Group. His extensive professional background also includes five years with the drug court system in Ada County and an additional five years specializing in detoxification services. His commitment to the field is further highlighted by his past service on the board of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), where he advocated for improved mental health resources and support.
DeOndre’s approach to operations is fueled by a deep-seated passion for systemic change and a personal understanding of the impact drug use has on families. This perspective ensures that 49Alpha’s programs remain focused on the family unit as a cornerstone of long-term recovery.
Outside the Office
When he isn’t streamlining clinical operations, DeOndre embraces the Idaho lifestyle. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys kayaking, camping, and exploring the backcountry. A true enthusiast of the “low and slow” method, he is often found perfecting his craft smoking meats for friends and family. DeOndre is the proud father of two adult sons and is frequently accompanied on his adventures by his miniature red heeler, Elli Mai.
Erin Dominguez, MS, CADC
Clinical Director
Erin Dominguez, MS, CADC, is a behavioral health clinician with over seven years of experience across the full continuum of care, specializing in high-risk adult and adolescent populations within residential, outpatient, and judicial settings. What distinguishes Erin is the powerful intersection of her clinical precision and her lived experience as a former high-risk youth and teen parent, allowing her to build rapid trust and effectively challenge denial in those often resistant to traditional treatment. Her approach is direct, intentional, and rooted in accountability, moving clients beyond survival patterns toward sustainable, self-directed lives. Deeply passionate about transformative early intervention and raising the standard of care, Erin balances her professional expertise with a personal commitment to faith, resilience, and her role as a mother.
Matthew Adams
Substance Use Disorder Associate (SUDA)
Matthew Adams is a distinguished Substance Use Disorder Assistant (SUDA) and a Veteran of the U.S. Army, bringing a disciplined and mission-oriented perspective to the field of recovery. With an extensive background in adult case management, he possesses a sophisticated understanding of the multifaceted challenges associated with substance use and the systemic requirements for long-term stability. Matthew is recognized for his person-centered approach, utilizing evidence-based support and practical guidance to meet clients at their specific stage of change. Committed to the principles of restorative healing and professional advocacy, he serves as a reliable and compassionate leader for individuals navigating the complexities of the recovery process.
Mr Clancy
Canine Therapist
Meet Mr. Clancy: The Chief Snuggle Officer. If you’re walking into our program and feel a sudden warmth at your feet, don’t worry—you’ve just been “Clancy-ed.”
Mr. Clancy isn’t just a service dog; he’s our resident heart-reader and the unofficial captain of the welcome wagon. With a nose for adventure and a soul for service, he specializes in knowing exactly when someone needs a little extra support before they even realize it themselves.
On the Job
At the office, Clancy takes his role in our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) very seriously. He’s a pro at:
- The Emotional Radar: He has a “sixth sense” for big feelings. If things get heavy, expect a gentle lean or a full-on foot snuggle to help ground you.
- The Circle of Trust: Once he’s seen you a few times, you’re officially “in.” He considers our youth and staff his pack, and he’s always ready to offer a wagging tail to his regulars.
- The Doorbell Duty: While he’s a lover, he’s also a professional. He’ll give a polite alert when a new face enters the building, making sure we’re all aware and safe.
Off the Clock
When the vest comes off and he heads home, Clancy trades “professionalism” for “pure chaos” (in the best way possible). His weekend plans usually include:
- Goat Tag: He’s a champion goat-chaser. Whether the goats actually want to play is still up for debate, but Clancy is having the time of his life.
- Sister Act: He loves wrestling and running circles with his canine sisters.
- Recharging: Even a superhero needs a nap! He spends his downtime resting up so he can bring 100% of his healing energy back to the kids on Monday.
Ready To Learn More?
Schedule a free, no-pressure consultation and discover how 49 Alpha can help your child take their first steps toward lasting recovery.