Today we’d like to introduce you to Tammy Miller.
Hi Tammy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Absolutely! I’m Tammy Miller, the Founder and Executive Director of ATX KIDS CLUB, a nonprofit here in Central Texas that helps kids explore their city, gain confidence, and develop independence—all through educational adventures that primarily use public transportation. Our goal is to show kids that learning can happen anywhere, and that their city is full of opportunities just waiting to be discovered.
My path to this work has been anything but linear. I’ve worked in IT as a network administrator, ran my own jewelry design business, taught first grade, and now I lead a nonprofit. Each chapter taught me something valuable and helped shape the mission behind ATX KIDS CLUB.
I grew up in Pennsylvania and spent time in Maryland before moving to Austin 17 years ago. As a young adult in the PA/MD area, I learned how to navigate public transit in places like Philly, D.C., and New York. That experience showed me how transit connects people—not just geographically, but culturally. It helped me appreciate the power of travel and exploration, which has influenced every part of my life.
When I was teaching in Southeast Austin, I saw how many of my students didn’t get to experience much beyond their own neighborhoods. Field trips quickly became the highlight of my teaching, because I could see firsthand how much kids benefit from being out in the world.
That realization, along with my love for education, travel, and youth development, inspired me to
launch ATX KIDS CLUB in 2014. It started with me leading field trips on my own, and now we’ve
grown into a year-round organization making a lasting impact across Central Texas.
In addition to the nonprofit, I also host Hummingbird Concerts, a backyard music series I created to bring people together through live performance and community. It’s one of my favorite ways to slow down, connect, and support local artists.
When I’m not working, I love RVing—I’ve taken several cross-country trips and have owned five RVs over the years! I live on a three-acre property in Bastrop with my two dogs, four cats, and an active fishpond that brings me a lot of joy. My mom lives with me part of the year in her own space on my property, and I love spending time in the garden, cooking, or planning my next adventure. It’s a full life, and I’m incredibly grateful for the blend of creativity, nature, and purpose that fuels everything I do.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a smooth road—but I don’t think the most meaningful paths ever are.
Starting and growing ATX KIDS CLUB has come with its fair share of challenges. In the early days, it was just me—planning every outing, coordinating transportation, managing registrations, and leading the field trips. I was wearing every hat, and like most nonprofit founders, I had to get really comfortable doing a lot with very little.
One of the biggest challenges has been funding. We’re providing enriching experiences for kids—many of whom wouldn’t otherwise have access to these kinds of opportunities—but like most nonprofits, we’ve had to work hard to secure sustainable support. Convincing funders and
families to see the value of nontraditional, experience-based education hasn’t always been
easy.
Another challenge was simply building awareness. ATX KIDS CLUB isn’t a traditional out of school program or summer camp—it’s something in between, and helping people understand our mission and trust us with their kids took time and a lot of community engagement.
But those challenges also pushed me to grow—as a leader, as an organizer, and as a person. They’ve made our mission stronger and clearer. I still face obstacles, but I believe in what we’re doing, and that belief helps carry me through the harder days.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about ATX KIDS CLUB?
I think the biggest thing to know is that ATX KIDS CLUB is about more than just fun field trips— it’s about building confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging in every child we serve. We’re showing kids that they don’t need a car or a big budget to explore their city. With a transit pass, curiosity, and a little guidance, the world opens up to them in incredible ways.
We’re also deeply rooted in the community. Our program supports local businesses, museums, parks, and public spaces, and we’re always looking for ways to collaborate with others who believe in education, equity, and access.
As for me—I’m just someone who believes that learning doesn’t have to happen inside four walls. Whether it’s through music, nature, travel, or a simple ride on a city bus, there are lessons and moments of magic everywhere. I’m proud of what we’ve built at ATX KIDS CLUB, and I’m excited for what’s still to come.
If you’re reading this and thinking, “How can I help?”—we’re always looking for partners, supporters, and cheerleaders. Whether it’s sponsoring a camper, sharing our mission, or even attending a Hummingbird Concert, every little bit helps keep life’s adventure going.
How do you think about happiness?
To me, happiness isn’t something you chase—it’s something you cultivate. It lives in the little moments: seeing a child light up with curiosity on an ATX KIDS CLUB adventure, hearing music drift across my backyard during a Hummingbird Concert, cooking a favorite meal, or simply watching my dogs nap in the sun.
Happiness also comes from purpose. I’ve found deep joy in building a life that reflects my values—connection, creativity, kindness, and lifelong learning. It’s not about perfection or a certain destination; it’s about creating a rhythm that feels true to who I am, even when things are messy or uncertain.
I think when you fill your days with intention and surround yourself with good people, animals, and projects that make your heart beat a little faster, happiness has a way of showing up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.atxkidsclub.org
- Instagram: atxkidsclub
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atxkidsclub
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammylmiller/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@atxkidsclub5684
