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August 2022 Newsletter
New OPEN FOR BUSINESS Grant Portal is Now Online
Wells Fargo in partnership with the Houston Fund For Social Justice And Economic Equity announced the launch of the Open for Business Grant portal to distribute $20 million to Houston-area diverse, small businesses and non-profit organizations. 
 
Beginning Tuesday, August 9, business owners can apply for grants ranging between $10,000 and $65,000.  
 
“Opening this portal is an incredible step towards the progress we initiated in May 2021 when we established the Houston Fund for Social Justice and Economic Equity. We are providing access to much-needed funds for Houston’s small businesses of color and non-profits that focus on leveling the playing field. It will
empower their work, allow them to thrive, extend their reach, and support innovation,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner, who serves as the Honorary Chair. “Thanks to corporate partnerships like Wells Fargo, we have come a long way in a short time and are now funding foundational change in the Houston community.” 
 
Read the full press release. 
Complete Communities University Leadership Training Promotes Civic Engagement
The Department of Neighborhoods (DON) invites Houston residents committed to making a positive impact in their communities to apply for Fall 2022 Complete Communities University (CCU) leadership training. The eight-week course will run Sept. 21–Nov. 9. The classes will be held online via Microsoft Teams and in person on Wednesday evenings, 6–8:30 p.m. The application deadline is August 31, 2022.
The CCU program educates emerging leaders on how to effectively engage residents in civic activities to vitalize and empower neighborhoods. Course topics include leadership development through civic engagement, volunteerism, voter education, how city and county governments function and impact neighborhoods, and how to effectively navigate City services and local resources. Course participants are challenged to devise civic engagement strategies based on the unique character, interests and needs of their neighborhoods.

For application guidelines and to
apply, visit the DON website at: www.houstontx.gov/neighborhoods/
ccu.html. Applicants must be residents of Houston. Applications must be received by 5 p.m., August 31, 2022.

For more information, call 832-393-1061 or email [email protected].
City of Houston and Harris County Intend to File Suit Against Union Pacific for Environmental Contamination
The City of Houston and Harris County will seek environmental justice for Fifth Ward Kashmere Gardens Families. A Notice of Intent to sue Union Pacific for creosote contamination was announced July 26.

Watch the press conference video. Read the full press release
The City of Houston Responds to U.S. Department of Justice Investigation on Illegal Dumping
Mayor Sylvester Turner released a statement on July 22 about the U.S. Department of Justice investigation into third-party illegal dumping in Houston. Read the full statement. The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation regarding illegal third-party dumping issues in Houston
 
Read the full press release.
Vietnamese American Community Celebrates Achievements of Houston-Area High School Valedictorians and Salutatorians
The Vietnamese Culture and Science Association (VCSA) sponsored the 26th Annual Vietnamese American Youth Excellence Recognition Program on August 7 to celebrate the accomplishments of outstanding Vietnamese American high school students. VCSA recognized the academic achievements of Vietnamese American high school students who graduated as either valedictorian or salutatorian of their respective high schools in the Greater Houston Area. Awardees were presented by community/education leaders and The Mayor’s Office of Complete Communities Director, Shannon Buggs. Thanks to VCSA for a job well done and for encouraging the younger Vietnamese American generations to strive for academic excellence.
Tell Us About Your Winter Storm Uri Experience
In February 2021, Winter Storm Uri impacted Houstonians by causing damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. As a result, the City of Houston will receive over $30 million in long-term disaster recovery grants to address the freeze's impacts and enhance the resilience of Houstonians during future disaster events.

Learn how to get involved at www.houstontx.gov/housing/dr.html. For additional information or to request special arrangements for the live virtual meetings (interpreter or other), contact Ashley Lawson at 832-394-5438 or [email protected].
Visit the Mayor’s Back to School Fest on August 13
Please join the City of Houston on Saturday, Aug. 13, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m at the George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida De Las Americas for the Mayor’s 13th Annual Back to School Fest for back to school services and free school supplies (while they last).
 
At the event you can take part in:
· Free Immunizations
· Free Dental Screenings
· Hair Cuts Vouchers
and much more...
 
Please register at www.houstontx.gov for an appointment time.
Attend the Evolve Houston Event on August 18
Register today to celebrate Evolve’s 2022 relaunch on Thursday, August 18, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hear first-hand about Evolve's and Houston's latest initiatives from Mayor Turner, Evolve's founding members: the City of Houston, CenterPoint Energy, NRG Energy, Shell, University of Houston, and other major stakeholders taking part in this effort.

Evolve is bringing Texas together to celebrate the meaningful collaboration within Houston and across the state that has inspired the regional advancement of clean transportation. Evolve is working to bridge the gap between environmental equity and opportunity in our communities through the advancement of clean transportation.
Sustainable Forestry and African American Land
Retention Program (SFLR) in Harris County
Prairie View A&M University’s Agriculture and Natural Resources department within the Cooperative Extension Program offers programs that support the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Program (SFLR). Through the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Program (SFLR), our focus is to assist African American forest landowners with addressing land retention and wealth generation, specifically as it relates to heir property and forest management.
 
Register to attend a SFLR Outreach Workshop from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, August 11. Participants will discuss the following topics:
 
· Heirs’ property
· Forest management
· Timber harvesting 
· Technical assistance and financial
resources through USDA and FSA.
 
Visit the Prairie View A&M website to register for the SFLR Outreach Workshop and other events by going to the Prairie View A&M website.
Prairie View will also host the 2nd Annual SFLR Joint Regional Conference on August 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and August 31 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. via Zoom.

For any questions contact Program Coordinator, Angela Moore at 936-261-5002 or [email protected].
Free Workforce Training Available in Precinct 2
Harris County Precinct 2’s workforce academy, Train2Empower, is a free program aimed at providing credentials and training opportunities for residents in Precinct 2. Get your credentials in an area that could lead you to a better paying job.

Credentials are available in the following areas:
· Certified Medical Administrative Assistant
· Adobe Web Design
· Accredited Legal Professional
 
Requirements:
· 18 years old, or older and a Precinct 2 resident
· High School Diploma or GED with the legal right to work in the US
· Desire to seek employment in the designated field
· Office or customer service experience is preferred but not required
· Willing to commit to 20 hrs/week

For more information, visit www.hcp2.com/train2empower, email [email protected], or call 713-274-2653. 
Department of Neighborhoods Announces a
New Division, New Initiatives, and a New Logo!
Last month, the Department of Neighborhoods (DON) announced the creation of a new division, the Office of Neighborhood Engagement (ONE) and revealed its new department logo. The new division will implement initiatives designed to engage residents in civic activities to make a difference in their communities. The new logo aligns with the department’s identity as “The People’s Department” and commitment to “S.U.P.E.R.” values — Service, Unity, Professionalism, Excellence and Responsiveness.
The new logo design for the "people's department"
“The new services will provide Houstonians additional access to information and opportunities. As mayor, my primary focus has been and continues to be the people in our communities. DON’s new Office of Neighborhood Engagement is aligned with the priorities of the city and will truly improve the lives of those living, working, and playing in Houston,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner.
Boost Your Vaccinations at Events Across Houston
The Equitable Vaccination Acceptance and Distribution to Houston Complete Communities Initiative, also known as VAX HOU, is a Complete Communities project supported by a grant from the Rockefeller Foundation. VAX HOU's mission is to increase COVID-19 vaccinations, address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and advance health equity in the Houston Complete Communities.

VAX HOU team coordinates vaccine events conveniently located in the Complete Communities neighborhoods.
Mexican Consulate of Houston  
Friday, August 12, 9 a.m.–noon
3200 Rogerdale Rd.
Pop Up Clinic will be be onsite

Mayor’s Back 2 School Fest 
Saturday, August 13, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
George R. Brown Convention Center
1001 Avenida de las Americas
Pop Up Clinic will be be onsite

Texas Southern University  
Thursday, August 18, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
3100 Cleburne St.
Pop Up Clinic will be be onsite
Mexican Consulate of Houston  
Friday, August 19, 9 a.m.–noon
3200 Rogerdale Rd.
Pop Up Clinic will be be onsite

Greater St. Matthew’s Baptist Church Back to School Event 
Saturday, August 27, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
7701 Jutland Rd.
Pop Up Clinic will be be onsite
Attend the Houston Food Bank Community Meeting
The Houston Food Bank is expanding, and they would like to know how to grow. HFB will be hosting a Community meeting on Thursday, August 25, 2022 at the Acres Home Multi-Service Center, 6719 W. Montgomery Rd., to understand how they can better serve the Northwest Community through this new center.
Participate in this meeting, and let your voice be heard!

For more information contact [email protected].
Free Youth Soccer Program Features Coaching by Houston Dynamo and Houston Dash
The Department of Neighborhoods’ Mayor’s Office of Gang Prevention and Intervention (MOGPI) invites youth ages 6-14 to register for Futbolito in the City Powered by Shell Energy. The program uses the power of soccer to provide an opportunity for youth to pursue their interest in playing the sport and gaining new skills at no cost to their families. Futbolito soccer activities include coaching by Houston Dynamo FC and the Houston Dash. Later this year, the program will be offered for Olle Middle School students only from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Thursdays, Nov. 3 to Dec. 8.
To register for Futbolito, visit the Houston Dynamo website.

For more information on the program visit bit.ly/HD-FUTBOLITO or email [email protected]. 
Council Member Tiffany Thomas Presents:
2nd Annual District F Career Fair
District F will host its 2nd Annual Career Fair, so come out and get to know Houston companies and jump-start your career.
 
August 20, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Alief ISD Center For Advanced Careers
12160 Richmond Ave.
 
Need more assistance? Please contact District F office at 832-393-3002, [email protected], or www.houstontx.gov/council/F/
Fountain of Praise: Avenue 360 Back to School Event
Avenue 360’s Back 2 School Drive, a drive-thru event, is designed to help Houston-area children and parents prepare for the upcoming school year. Bring your children, pick up a backpack, meet the providers, and have some fun. Pre-registration is recommended. Children must be present.

The event is on Saturday, August 13, 8 a.m.–3 p.m. inside the gymnasium at Venue 360 Southwest Health Center, 14095 Main St, Houston, TX 77035.

For more information contact Crystal Vallair at 512-569-0853, or [email protected]
Houston Food Bank, New Faith Church & District K
Are Providing Free Groceries and Breakfast
Free Breakfast and groceries will be provided to constituents of District K, every Thursday from 8–10 a.m. while supplies last. Items can be picked up at New Faith Church, located at 4315 West Fuqua. In partnership with Martha Castex-Tatum and the Houston Food Bank.
Safety Improvements and Beautification
Coming to the Gulfton Area
A new management district in Gulfton is aiming to increase commercial investment, public safety, and clean up public spaces. The Gulfton Area Management District (GAMD) started collecting fees on commercial property this year, with a goal of raising $1.4 million in annual assessments to fund these beautification and safety projects.

The board of the GAMD has also approved a donation of $150,000 to the Houston Police Department to fund additional evening patrols in the area.

The full article can be found on the Community Impact website.
Kashmere Gardens
Back to School Supply Drive and Back to School Bash at Kashmere High School
The new school year is near for many students who may be in need of supplies. Kashmere High School, located at 6900 Wileyvale Road, is collecting school supply donations for its Back to School Supply Drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday thru Thursday until August 12. The needed supplies include the following:
 
· Clear/Mesh Backpacks
· Pencils, Pens, Markers
· Map Pencils, Crayola
· Folders
· Paper
· Composition & Spiral Notebooks
· 3-Ring Binders
· Construction Paper
· Pencil Sharpeners
· Scissors, Glue
· Erasers
· Pencil Bags
· Kleenex
The supply drive will lead to the Kashmere Feeder Pattern Back to School Bash from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 13 at the high school. This event will include:
· Free school supplies
· Immunizations & COVID Vaccines
· Meet and greet with the RAMs Varsity
football players & cheerleaders
· Food trucks
· Games, performances, and prizes
Upcoming Super Neighborhood 65 and 82 meetings

Meetings for Super Neighborhood Council 65 and 82 have been scheduled for the rest of this year. The meetings will be held at 10 a.m. at Hartman Community Center,
9311 E. Avenue, on the following dates: Saturday, Sept. 3, and Nov. 5.

General meetings will be held every first Saturday of each odd month of the year. Meet your neighbors, engage, and be informed.
We Need Your Input on Future
Infrastructure Improvements! 
Northside On The Move is a partnership project between the Greater Northside Management District and Harris County Precinct 2 with the goal of developing a forward-looking strategy for future infrastructure improvements in Greater Northside. Input from the community is vital to developing the strategy and prioritizing infrastructure projects for Northside On The Move.

There are several opportunities for you to share your input throughout the process:

Please take the community survey to share your mobility needs and your thoughts on transportation improvements in Greater Northside: http://bit.ly/NorthsideOnTheMove

Attend the community meeting at 6 p.m. on August 11 at the Harris County Department of Education building, 6300 Irvington Blvd., to provide feedback on mobility projects important you.
 
For more details visit http://bit.ly/NorthsideOnTheMove
Northside On The Move es un proyecto de asociación entre Greater Northside Management District y el Precinto 2 del condado de Harris con el objetivo de desarrollar una estrategia prospectiva para futuras mejoras de infraestructura en Greater Northside. Los aportes de la comunidad son vitales para desarrollar la estrategia y priorizar los proyectos de infraestructura para Northside On The Move.

Hay varias oportunidades para que comparta su opinión a lo largo del proceso:

Complete la encuesta comunitaria para informarles sobre sus necesidades de movilidad y dónde le gustaría ver mejoras en el transporte en Greater Northside: http://bit.ly/Northside

Asistir a la reunión comunitaria a las 6 p.m. el 11 de agosto en el edificio del Departamento de Educación del Condado de Harris, 6300 Irvington Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77022, para brindar comentarios sobre proyectos de movilidad importantes para usted.

Para obtener más detalles, visite http://bit.ly/NorthsideOnTheMove.
Opportunity Youth Program at Wesley
Are you 16-24 years of age, out-of-school, and need help finding a job? Eligible participants of the Opportunity Youth Next Gen can receive one-on-one support at Wesley Community Center, located at 1410 Lee St. The program can help participants obtain a GED, preparing for in-demand careers, and development long-term employment plans and strategies.
 
Services offered:
· Job Placement
· Digitial Literacy
· Tuition Assistance
· Supportive Services
· On-the-Job Training
· Diploma/GED Preparation
· Resume Writing Assistance
· Occupational Skills Training
· One-on-One Career Advising
For more information, contact Wesley at 713-222-8131.
Summer Enrichment Program for Kids 
On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3 to 4 p.m. until August 31 at the Leonel J Castillo Community Center, located at 2101 South St., children can learn two cultural dances and beginning drumming patterns. They will also be guided in the exploration of the circle of respect concept that also integrates racial tolerance, acceptance as all 4 colors of the medicine wheel will be explained as the template of the Native American medicine wheel. These four colors represent the four stages of life, the four original people of color of the earth as well as the four changes of season. For your child to participate, call 713-274-2222. Income verification is required. 
Attend Upcoming Super Neighborhood 63 Meetings
Meetings for Super Neighborhood Council #63 have been scheduled for the rest of this year. The meetings will be held at 6:30 p.m. at Baker Ripley House, 4410 Navigation Blvd., on Mondays, Oct. 3, and Dec. 5. Meet your neighbors, engage, and be informed. 
Join Us at the 6th Annual Southside
Takeover Parade Celebration
We invite you to attend the 6th Annual Southside Takeover Parade Celebration on Saturday August 13th at 8:30 a.m. The Pride of Sunnyside continues with a valiant march through the neighborhood, representing all of the campuses in the Worthing Feeder Pattern. Participating in the celebration are: Woodson PK-5, Almeda, Bastian, Law, Reynolds and Young elementary schools, Attucks Middle School, and South Early College High School.

The celebration includes a street parade, community fair, moonwalks, and free school supplies. The parade begins and ends at Worthing High School.
“Hiring Sunnyside” Employment and Resource Fair
Was a Great Success
The Office of Complete Communities would like to thank Sandra Massie Hines for hosting this significant event. Attendees were provided employment training for workforce opportunities. Additional resources were provided by Houston Police Department, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, CenterPoint Energy, City of Houston Hire Houston Youth, and Houston Workforce Solutions.
Young Elementary now enrolling Pre-K3 to 5th grade 
Young Elementary will have Pre-K Camp Aug. 3–4, 9 a.m.–noon. Meet the Teacher will be held Aug. 18, 1–3 p.m. They are now enrolling Pre-K to 5th grade students for the 2022–2023 school year. Call 713-732-3590 for more information. Online enrollment is available at www.houstonisd.org/enroll.
Free Food Distribution
Boynton Chapel UMC-Houston provides free
food distribution every 2nd Saturday at 10 am. The church is located at 2812 Milby St. Call
713-748-6066 for more information.
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