Elaine Poeu-En
Finance & Operations Manager
Elaine brings over 20 years of experience working in the nonprofit sector. Prior to starting at Free to Thrive, she worked at the University of San Diego, a Catholic university committed to preparing compassionate and ethical leaders. She also worked at Pacific Intercultural Exchange, a high school student exchange organization aimed at breaking down cultural barriers.
Elaine joined Free to Thrive because she wanted to contribute to the organization’s mission to improve the quality of life for human trafficking survivors. Her parents are survivors of the Cambodian Genocide, the systematic persecution and killing of Cambodian citizens by the Khmer Rouge from 1975-1979. It is service organizations like Free to Thrive that helped Elaine’s parents get back on their feet and regain their sense of belonging, from immediate needs in providing them food and shelter to emotional needs in helping them heal from their trauma. From this humble beginning, Elaine grew up knowing that she wanted to help those less fortunate, which naturally led her to Free to Thrive.
In her role as the Finance & Operations Manager at Free to Thrive, Elaine is responsible for managing the organization’s financial and operational systems, processes, and administration. This includes financial management, month-end reconciliation, accounts payable, accounts receivable, annual activities and audits, risk management, human resources, equipment and IT resource management, facilities management, board governance, and other duties as assigned.
Elaine also volunteers as the Treasurer of the Khmer American Mutual Association of San Diego, a nonprofit organization formed to preserve and promote Khmer cultural heritage through education, charitable events, and activities. During her free time, she enjoys gardening and visiting national parks with her husband and three children.
Elaine graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration for Finance and received a Master of Education in TESOL, Literacy and Culture from the University of San Diego.
