Dallas Fort Worth Nonprofit Business Journal

Author: DFW501c Reporter

  • Fort Worth Opera launches multi-year fundraising campaign, Match the Momentum 

    Fort Worth Opera launches multi-year fundraising campaign, Match the Momentum 

    To mark the company’s landmark 80th anniversary season, Fort Worth Opera announced the launch of a four-year fundraising campaign intended to raise one million dollars and unlock new possibilities for opera in Fort Worth. 

    “For eight decades, Fort Worth Opera has been a cornerstone of the arts in North Texas—a creative force uniting generations through music and storytelling,” said Angela Turner Wilson. “This campaign is a call to action—to invest in the company’s next 80 years and ensure opera continues to inspire, educate, and reflect the community it serves.”

    September 2025 marks Phase One of this broader, four-year initiative. Titled Match the Momentum, this opening phase of the campaign aims to raise $125,000 in new and increased contributions—doubled to $250,000 through a generous matching challenge from several devoted local patrons of the arts. 

    Match the Momentum’s first $80,000 gift has already been committed, putting the campaign significantly toward its initial goal.

    Wilson emphasizes that Match the Momentum is a chance for the community to rally together and claim ownership of the company’s future: “This isn’t just Fort Worth Opera’s moment—it’s Fort Worth’s. Every dollar given, and every story shared, helps ensure the next generation can fall in love with opera in their own neighborhoods, in their own schools, and on their own terms.”

    Match the Momentum isn’t just about numbers; it’s about enriching the cultural lives of Fort Worth residents through the power of opera. Contributions to the campaign directly support:

    • Mainstage productions that feature beloved classics and cutting-edge new works, thrilling audiences at Bass Performance Hall and unique venues across Fort Worth.
    • New opera commissions and collaborations that amplify voices throughout our community and tell stories rooted in Fort Worth’s rich cultural heritage.
    • Showcasing emerging talent from across the U.S. and introducing the next generation of operatic stars to our city.
    • Innovative educational initiatives serving K–12 students across Fort Worth ISD and North Texas through curriculum-aligned programming and interactive, immersive performances.
    • Community-based programs in unexpected venues that reflect the city’s vibrant spirit and artistic energy—from libraries and museums to cultural centers and civic spaces.

    Every gift is matched dollar-for-dollar. A $100 donation becomes $200 in support of music education, access, and artistry. A $1,000 gift becomes $2,000—empowering innovation onstage and strengthening connections within our community offstage.

    The campaign embodies the company’s renewed commitment to innovation, civic pride, and the conviction that opera is a living, breathing art form—one that reflects our shared humanity and has the power to unite us all. From classrooms to concert halls, Fort Worth Opera is creating meaningful opportunities for audiences of all ages to experience the transformative joy of classical music.

    Throughout its 2025–26 season, Fort Worth Opera will amplify the campaign through digital storytelling, donor spotlights, and collaborative programming. As the city celebrates eight decades as the oldest continuously operating opera company in Texas, Match the Momentum invites residents to join in supporting an art form that reflects their voices and their dreams—along with the stories that unite us all.

    “Opera is evolving, just like Fort Worth,” says Polenz. “And that evolution thrives when our community steps forward, when we say yes to creativity, and yes to a future where the arts remain an essential part of who we are.”

    To make a gift or learn more about the campaign, visit fwopera.org/match-the-momentum or contact Ryan Lathan, Director of Development, at 817.288.1225 or ryan@fwopera.org.

    Source: press release

  • Pro Bono Speaker’s Bureau launched in Dallas-Fort Worth

    Pro Bono Speaker’s Bureau launched in Dallas-Fort Worth

    Free Speakers provides speakers to local groups and nonprofits

    August 8 marks the launch of a new community service project for groups and organizations that need speakers in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Free Speakers, a pro bono speaker’s bureau, provides speakers at no cost to DFW area groups. The new bureau currently has 30 local speakers with more than 50 different topics available.

    “All speakers present programs at no cost,” said Andy Richardson, director of Free Speakers. “This is a community service project that is 100 percent free to groups that need speakers. We’re excited to launch in DFW and know the number of speakers and topics will grow quickly.”

    FreeSpeakers.org is a boon for groups who need speakers for their programs but who have limited (or no) budgets. Groups include libraries, chambers of commerce, Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, special interest clubs, church groups, retirement communities, women’s clubs, men’s clubs, etc.

    “What’s in it for the speakers?” Richardson said. “They are motivated by the opportunity to teach, hone speaking skills, make contacts, convey a message, give back to the community and frequently, all of the above.”

    FreeSpeakers.org serves the community through live in-person seminars and speaking engagements. Rarely do the speakers engage in virtual meetings. However, a lot has changed due to COVID.

    “Our speakers, by nature of presenting their topics and knowledge, are very community service-minded,” Richardson said. “When asked about helping the community by presenting virtually, the speakers overwhelming said yes. They are here to help the community.”

    Since 1996 Free Speakers has been providing speakers to area groups in Chicago. The project has expanded and now includes seven cities: Chicago, Phoenix, Washington D.C., Los Angeles and Orange County, Milwaukee, Indianapolis, and now Dallas-Fort Worth.

    For more information, visit: https://dallas-fort-worth.freespeakers.org/.

    Source: press release

  • Plano YMCA and American Heart Association collaborate with The Storehouse

    Organizations coming together as one community are creating lasting impact at The Storehouse Community Center, where collaboration is key to empowering neighbors on their journeys toward self-sufficiency. Through joint efforts with the Plano YMCA and the American Heart Association, neighbors are gaining access to vital health education, preventative tools, and lifestyle guidance that support long-term wellness and improved quality of life.

    The Plano YMCA began hosting its Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program on Saturday mornings at The Academy, the education program of The Storehouse, starting in September 2024 through December 2024. The program ran again from February to May 2025 and was relaunched in September 2025. It is now being held every Saturday from 8 to 9 a.m., continuing through November 2025.

    To further support this initiative, the American Heart Association donated a blood pressure kiosk, providing quick and accurate blood pressure readings to both participants in the class and others at The Storehouse who wish to monitor their blood pressure. A trained volunteer assists users in operating the machine, which prints out systolic, diastolic, and heart rate values after a 20-second scan.

    “This is an extraordinary program for our well-being,” said Beatriz Martinez, a participant in the blood pressure monitoring program. “I’ve been diagnosed with hypertension, and the accurate weekly measurements at The Storehouse, along with the recommendations from the health coach every Saturday, have helped me become more aware of the improvements I need to make for a better quality of life. The new BP machine has allowed me to get precise readings that I can take to my doctor for potential adjustments to my medication. I would like to thank The Storehouse, YMCA, and the American Heart Association for providing us with care, education, and support for our health.”

    The YMCA’s four-month program is designed to help adults with hypertension manage their blood pressure through regular self-monitoring and proper health practices. Each of the 23 enrolled neighbors receives a home blood pressure monitor, participates in weekly consultations, and attends educational seminars focused on nutrition and heart health. Participants are also given YMCA membership cards that grant access to gym facilities and group exercise classes.

    “A nutrition coach comes monthly as part of this program and discusses a variety of topics on how to decrease blood pressure, including how to reduce sodium levels, the importance of eating whole foods and avoiding preservatives, and how to read food labels,” said MaKayla Boyd, membership service representative, Frisco Family YMCA. “At the end of our four-month session, the group is invited on a grocery store tour with our nutritionist at Sprouts, where they can put their knowledge into action by learning how to read labels and discussing best food choices. Our partnership with The Storehouse isn’t just about community health and providing resources. It is about accountability and support to those wanting to start their healthy lifestyle journeys.”

    The American Heart Association, a relentless force for changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, sees this collaboration as a powerful extension of their mission. 

    “By providing tools like the blood pressure kiosk and supporting educational efforts, we’re helping neighbors take meaningful steps toward better heart health,” said Jenny Eyer, vice president of community impact. “It’s inspiring to see how shared commitment and care can lead to lasting change in people’s lives.”

    Additionally, for neighbors who are not currently taking medication due to a lack of health insurance, The Storehouse helps connect them to local medical resources that can assist with care and prescription access.

    “After attending these seminars, many neighbors have seen a reduction in their blood pressure levels and no longer need medication!” said Ligia Urrego, director of The Academy. “Working with the Plano YMCA and the American Heart Association has been a beautiful example of what it means to serve as one community. Through the YMCA’s weekly classes and the generous donation from the American Heart Association, our neighbors are not only learning how to care for their health—they’re experiencing the power of community walking alongside them. These organizations have truly become part of our family.”

    Source: press release

  • AWARE Announces 2025 Grant Recipients

    AWARE Announces 2025 Grant Recipients

    Karen Koop, AWARE 2025 president, announced the 2025 Grant Recipients. AWARE is a nonprofit organization that empowers North Texans to rise above the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other dementias together.

    Each year, AWARE conducts an annual grant review process by which grant applicants are carefully and thoughtfully vetted to ensure that grant dollars are awarded to organizations that provide outstanding services to those living with Alzheimer’s and their care partners, and to those research institutions that are at the forefront of medical research in the treatment, prevention, and cure of Alzheimer’s disease. All Grant Recipients are located in our North Texas area.  

    Since AWARE’s founding in 1989 by a group of volunteers, the Dallas-based organization has invested more than $15 million in local providers, researchers and innovators fighting for our loved ones and a cure.  Every dollar that AWARE grants stays in North Texas to benefit the local community.

    AWARE also invites North Texans who care about those who have been impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementias to join Friends of AWARE – a community of individuals, caregivers and professionals with a vested interest in supporting the best care in our region today and hope for a cure tomorrow.  Individuals navigating the challenges of these diseases – including patients, caregivers and professionals – connect, learn and advocate for solutions in North Texas.

    The community can support AWARE’s mission by joining Friends of AWARE, attending its annual signature fundraiser, AWARE Affair, or making a donation at www.awaredallas.org Instagram: @awaredallas   Facebook: @awaredallas

    AWARE 2025 Grants Awarded

    Baylor Scott and White Dallas Foundation

    Continued support for the salary of a Care and Support Specialist at the Baylor Memory Center.  The Specialist provides education, guidance and support that significantly reduce stress and improve the quality of life for families of individuals living with Alzheimer’s and enables clinical caregivers to focus on the medical needs of patients.

    Bishop Arts Theatre Center

    Continued support for Patio Live, a creative aging program that offers weekly workshops in partnership with memory care centers.  The workshops include song, dance, storytelling and other creative activities hosted by teaching artists and designed to stimulate brain function and ease stress.  The workshops also provide additional tools for the professional caregiver. 

    Center for Brain Health

    Support for Empowered Caregiving: Leveraging Brain Health for a Better Journey, a series of two-hour workshops for caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s.  Workshops are designed to help caregivers cope with the stress and demands of caring for patients and provide a personalized plan to improve their cognitive well-being and help participants approach caregiving with confidence and clarity.

    Dallas Museum of Art

    Support for Meaningful Moments, a program that provides art workshops for visitors to the Nasher and Dallas Museum of Art.  The program engages individuals with early to mid-stage Alzheimer’s and dementia and their caregivers in 90-minute workshops that include art-based activities designed to stimulate the senses, encourage self-expression, rekindle dormant memories, promote social interaction and affirm their dignity and self-worth.

    Dallas Symphony Association

    Continued support for DSO Cares, a series of concerts performed by DSO musicians in nursing homes, hospitals and memory care centers.   Programs include familiar classical works and other music genres that foster an engaging experience in which musicians share stories about the music, its composers and the instruments, and patients can sing along and recall memories of their own. The concerts also provide musical experiences that can be shared in their professional caregiving capacity.

    Dementia Care Warriors

    Support for the Revive, Refresh Caregiver Symposium, a program that addresses the critical gap in the support available to family caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in underserved communities in the greater Dallas area. The day-long symposium provides important information on legal and financial planning, medical information from diagnosis to treatment and palliative care, coping skills for caregivers and many valuable caregiver resources.

    First Unitarian Church of Dallas

    Support for Unforgettable Friends, a program that provides stimulating physical activities, music therapy and a nutritious lunch for individuals with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.  The program also offers respite for caregivers who need time to attend to their own personal needs and quarterly gatherings in which they can learn from professionals in various fields.

    For Love and Art

    Support for recruitment of Art Angels to expand and manage a program that provides therapeutic art experiences to individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in nursing homes and senior living facilities.  Art Angels engage participants through active exploration of art from world renown collections, engagement in conversations about the works and the artists, and stimulation of social, cognitive and spiritual quality of life experiences.

    Jewish Family Service
    Continued support for JSF Older Adult Services, a program that provides year-round homecare and case management support to individuals and families who struggle to maintain their mental and physical health. Case workers also perform basic domestic activities on a regular basis, nutritional support and free transportation to medical appointments.

    Juliette Fowler Communities

    Support for continued training, implementation, and oversight of the I’m Still Here program and Dementia Friendly initiatives, which include music therapy, therapeutic activities, one-on-one living skills assessments, family and resident education, staff education and more.  A portion of the grant will support the salary of a Cognitive Health Specialist who will manage evaluations, and treatment suggestions for individuals experiencing impairments or concerns related to cognitive health, physical and mental skills. 

    My Possibilities

    Support for the Aging HIPster Program, a program that addresses the growing need to help adults with intellectual disabilities facing cognitive decline, memory loss, Alzheimer’s and related dementias.  Funds will be used to conduct therapeutic activities, provide support in a sensory-friendly environment, and pay for supplies and a portion of salaries for staff managing the program. 

    NorthPark Presbyterian Church

    Continued support for Casa De Vida, a program that offers respite relief for caregivers and one-on-one care by trained volunteers to individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.  The program offers weekly half-day sessions featuring music therapy, exercise, games, art experiences and stimulating conversations.  It also includes monthly support groups in which caregivers can meet to understand experiences, share advice and find emotional support.

    Plano Symphony Orchestra

    Continued support for Healing Notes, a high-impact program that offers interactive music therapy for Plano’s growing number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in assisted living communities and memory care facilities.  Under the guidance of a licensed music therapist, the program engages participants in music that is both engaging and familiar and encourages interaction with musicians and each other. 

    Senior Attention

    Support for the development of The Caregiver’s Directory, a website that serves as a single online resource to help North Texas caregivers find answers to questions and sources of support and aid for a loved one with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. With this directory, caregivers can go to one website, find an index of numerous topics, click on the subject line and be directed to the page that provides the information and links to relevant websites, and where applicable, sites of local resources.

    The Senior Source

    Continued support for the Senior Companions Program, which provides care for low-income families caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.  Funds will be used to renew membership in the National Council of Certified Dementia Care Practitioners and the Dementia Specialist Credential Program for three senior staff.  Membership affords access to dementia training and continuing education programs.

    Songs & Smiles

    Support for publication of Joyful Memories, a 24-page printed magazine designed for families to share with loved ones living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.  Published and distributed quarterly, the magazine’s content is timeless and intergenerational, featuring original and curated pictures, stories, poems, and jokes designed to stimulate conversation and evoke memories.

    Stomping Ground Comedy Center 

    Continued support for Improv for Caregivers, a fun and interactive program that uses improvisational comedy techniques to teach effective communication skills that are specific to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

    Texas Winds Musical Outreach 

    Continued support for the Concerts for Seniors program, which provides interactive concerts by professional musicians to residents in nursing homes and adult day care facilities. The Concerts bring joy, relief from isolation and peace to individuals affected by memory loss.   The workshops also provide additional tools for professional caregivers. 

    The University of Texas at Dallas

    Support for Dr. Chandramalika Basak’s research to develop wearable early detectors of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) using functional near infrared spectroscopy and biomarkers.  The goal is to develop virtual tools for early detection of MCI.  Tools will utilize virtual reality, artificial intelligence and immersive sound in a head-mounted display.  If early detection can be found, there is a possibility of medical intervention to arrest or partially reverse the cognitive decline.

    Westminster Presbyterian Church

    Support for Making Memories, a bi-monthly program hosted by trained volunteers, who offer socialization, exercise, music therapy, entertainment, other memory stimulating activities and snacks for the participants with early to mid-stage Alzheimer’s and related dementias.  The program also provides respite for family caregivers of participants.

    Wilshire Baptist Church 

    Continued support for Friday Friends, a program that provides trained volunteers who give individuals with Alzheimer’s or related dementias a stimulating day of art, music, and games in a comfortable space at the church.  The program also provides respite for those who care for a loved one at home, and who have little or no assistance in relieving them of the constant care and supervision required of them. 

    Myrna D. Schlegel AWARE Scholarship Fund

    Support for scholarships for nursing students at Baylor University, Texas Women’s University and Texas Christian University for their studies in gerontology, especially in the fields of Alzheimer’s and related dementias. The List: Baylor Scott and White Dallas Foundation, Bishop Arts Theatre Center, Center for Brain Health, Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas Symphony Association, Dementia Care Warriors, First Unitarian Church of Dallas, For Love and Art, Jewish Family Service, Juliette Fowler Communities, My Possibilities, NorthPark Presbyterian Church, Plano Symphony Orchestra, Senior Attention, The Senior Source, Songs and Smiles, Stomping Ground Theater and Training Center, Texas Winds Musical Outreach, The University of Texas at Dallas, Westminster Presbyterian Church, Wilshire Baptist Church, Myrna D. Schlegel AWARE Scholarship Fund.

    Source: press release

  • Communities In Schools Tarrant opens new Center for Student Support

    Almost exactly a year to the day following its groundbreaking ceremonies, Communities In Schools of Greater Tarrant County (CISGTC) celebrates the opening of its Center for Student Support. The new facility is located in Westworth Village at 6660 Hawks Creek Ave. 

    During a ribbon cutting ceremony held Wednesday, Sept. 24, local leaders, educational partners and city officials joined CISGTC staff, social workers and students to celebrate the organization’s enhanced ability to serve the community.

    “We are absolutely thrilled this day has come,” said Lindsey Garner, president and CEO. “This new center makes services more accessible than ever, and we believe this convenience and our specialized support will be instrumental in achieving our growth and reaching more students and their families.”

    The new CISGTC Center for Student Support is meant to be more than an office location; it’s a new hub of helpful resources. Student clients and their families can access a dedicated mental health counseling center after school hours and on weekends, while social workers and community members will find a new space for training and enrichment. Additionally, in partnership with Texas Health Community Hope, the Center will operate a fresh food pantry to serve families experiencing food insecurity. The Center also features Clifton’s Closet, a clothing room stocked with apparel for pre-K through 12th grade students, and the Atmos Energy Supply Station, which will provide school supplies for CIS students. 

    The Center’s opening also marks the start of an exciting new partnership with Tarleton State University. As part of the Purple Counseling & Wellness Clinic, students from Tarleton State’s master’s and doctoral programs will receive training and experience as future social workers. 

    Communities In Schools is dedicated to removing barriers that students and families face. From this new and expanded hub, CISGTC is poised to further empower students, ensuring social workers can continue to bring resources directly to where they are needed most—inside the schools—so every child can overcome barriers and build a brighter future.

    Source: press release

  • Park Place Dealerships’ Season of Giving to provide up to $100,000 in grants to North Texas nonprofits

    Park Place Dealerships has launched its 5th annual Season of Giving, offering up to $100,000 in grants to nonprofits making a positive impact across the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area. Beginning October 1 through October 24, 2025, eligible organizations are invited to apply at ParkPlaceCares.com. Grant recipients will be announced the week of November 17, 2025.

    “Season of Giving is an opportunity to lift up the organizations that are driving meaningful change across North Texas,” said Matt Woolsey, Area Vice President for Park Place Dealerships. “Beyond funding, we are committed to building lasting relationships with these nonprofits through volunteerism and collaboration. Our Members truly embrace the spirit of giving, which allows Park Place to extend its impact far beyond our dealership walls.”

    To be considered, nonprofit organizations must meet the following criteria:

    • Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. 
    • Support one of Park Place Cares’ four pillars of giving: Education Medical Research, Children’s Advocacy, or the Arts.
    • Serve at least one of the following counties: Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, Denton, Ellis, Rockwall, Kaufman, Hunt, Wise, and Johnson.
    • Not have already received donations or in-kind support from Park Place in 2025. 
    • Apply no later than October 24, 2025.

    “There are so many deserving organizations that often go unrecognized because they don’t have the same visibility as larger nonprofits,” said Kara Connor, Community Engagement Manager at Park Place Dealerships. “Season of Giving allows us to shine a spotlight on these groups and provide them with resources to continue their important work. We’re inspired every year by the creativity and passion these nonprofits bring to serving our community.”

    Since 2021, Park Place has awarded $400,000 to 80 charities through Season of Giving, supporting causes from children’s services to medical research, the arts, and education.

    In 2024, 21 nonprofits were selected from more than 700 applications. A few among them were DFW Angels, whose mission is to walk alongside children, youth, and families in the foster care community by offering consistent support. Brown Girls Do Ballet promotes inclusivity in the arts by providing annual scholarships, a mentorship network, and community programs to empower young girls. Serving Our Seniors was also chosen for offering help, hope, and healing to their resident senior citizens. 

    Park Place’s Season of Giving goes beyond simply awarding grants—it’s about fostering partnerships and leveraging Member involvement to create long-term community impact.

    Park Place Dealerships, founded in 1987, has long supported the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. Today, the company employs more than 1,400 Members across eight luxury automotive dealerships in North Texas, representing Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Acura, and Land Rover. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth and Dallas, and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the company’s offerings. For more information, visit parkplace.com.

    Source: Press release

  • Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County awarded $50K Taco Bell Foundation grant

    Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County awarded $50K Taco Bell Foundation grant

    Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County (BGCGTC) has been selected as a recipient of a 2025 Community Grant from the Taco Bell Foundation. The $50,000 grant will support character and leadership development, helping youth in Tarrant County access essential resources to achieve their goals.

    “This generous donation will allow us to reach more students with the tools and guidance they need to build a successful future,” said Daphne Barlow, BGCGTC CEO and president. “We’re grateful to the Taco Bell Foundation for believing in our mission and investing in the potential of our youth.’”

    The Taco Bell Foundation awarded a record-breaking $28 million in Community Grants this year to nearly 500 nonprofit organizations nationwide. The Community Grants program uplifts youth in the communities that matter most to Taco Bell — those of its fans and Team Members. True to the brand’s spirit, the Taco Bell Foundation supports nonprofits that think differently and take bold approaches to creating new opportunities for young people.

    “We believe that empowering young people is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the future,” said Lisa Lane Cardin, executive director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “This record investment is a testament to the power of community-driven change and the limitless potential that exists when we remove barriers and open doors.”

    BGCGTC will use the funding to support its character and leadership programming. One example is the Youth of the Year program, a leadership development initiative that empowers Boys & Girls Clubs members with essential skills for success in life, work, and education. Through mentorship, career exploration, and skill-building in areas like public speaking and interviewing, participants grow personally and professionally. The program prepares youth for leadership roles, enhances their social-emotional development, and offers opportunities to compete in local, state, and national competitions, strengthening both individual futures and the Boys & Girls Clubs community.

    To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County, please visit bgcgtc.org. To learn more about the Taco Bell Foundation and the Community Grants program, please visit tacobellfoundation.org/who-we-support.

    Source: press release

  • CeeDee Lamb headlines $100k Challenge to support Boys & Girls Clubs Dallas

    Once a Club member himself, Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is now aiming for a new kind of touchdown: raising $100,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas (BGCD) before Thanksgiving.  

    The challenge kicks off on Sept. 15, encouraging fans to pledge donations that directly support after-school and mentoring programs for thousands of North Texas kids. Donors will also have the chance to win signed jerseys from Lamb, making every pledge an opportunity to support kids and celebrate their favorite Cowboy. 

    For Lamb, this partnership is personal. Before he was lighting up the NFL, he was a Club kid himself. “The Boys & Girls Club gave me a safe place to grow and dream big,” said Lamb. “Now it’s my turn to give back and make sure today’s kids have the same opportunities I did.” 

    Lamb’s story reflects the impact Boys & Girls Clubs have nationwide: 1 in 19 Americans grows up in a Club, finding safety, mentorship and opportunity within its walls. 

    “For 60 years, our Clubs have kept kids safe, active and learning,” said Debra Taylor, Interim President & CEO of BGCD. “With 10+ Club locations across Dallas County, we provide enriching afterschool experiences that are both affordable and accessible to thousands of families. Funds raised in partnership with CeeDee Lamb will directly support these programs, giving kids the safe space, guidance and opportunities they deserve.” 

    Fans and supporters can learn more and donate at charity.pledgeit.org/CeeDee/@CeeDee 

    Source: press release

  • Center for Transforming Lives opens Riverside Coworking

    Center for Transforming Lives opens Riverside Coworking

    Center for Transforming Lives announced the opening of its new social enterprise: Riverside Coworking, Kitchens & Studios.

    Designed to build financial well-being for the entire community, this unique small business incubator pairs commonly needed resources along with free drop-in child care, workshops and other education opportunities to empower women and families to thrive economically.

    Riverside Coworking is open to all participants of Center for Transforming Lives along with the general public. The goal is to create an ecosystem of entrepreneurs who can inspire and support each other. Affordable pricing and scholarships keep the space accessible to all.

    Located in the non-profit’s new Riverside Campus headquarters, Riverside Coworking offers:

    ·         A variety of desk memberships as well as access to meeting and training rooms

    ·         A commercial kitchen with 24-hour access and storage options

    ·         A teaching kitchen that’s ideal for small classes or creating content

    ·         A makerspace with a laser engraver, 3-D printer, Cricut, heat press and embroidery and sewing machines

    ·         Fully equipped audio and visual studios, with editing bay

    ·         Free drop-in child care, available for parents working on-site, a first-of-its-kind amenity

    ·         A professional mailing address, phone booths, printing and copying, WiFi, snacks, coffee and a wellness room.

    Entrepreneurs can also take advantage of free classes and other events that build skills, community and connection.

    Center for Transforming Lives’ “Level Up” small business program has supported nearly 200 low-income entrepreneurs in launching and expanding their own businesses and building financial well-being. The small business cohort includes specialized coaching in business planning, legal structures, financial management, marketing and more. Upon completion of the program, participants can apply for a matched savings small business grant of up to $5,000. Launching a social enterprise geared toward supporting entrepreneurs was the next natural step for the non-profit: an estimated 100 small businesses will be created or expanded annually through small business programming and the new coworking space.

    “When we invest in entrepreneurs, we invest in the future,” said Carol Klocek, chief executive officer of Center for Transforming Lives. “Affordable business resources aren’t just helpful, they’re essential, especially for low-income entrepreneurs. Access to these resources, training and support can mean the difference between an idea that fades and a business that flourishes.”

    Small businesses create local jobs, boost spending within the community, keep taxes close to home and diversify the marketplace. For mothers with young children, entrepreneurship can also be a path out of poverty; with the right support, a side hustle can turn into a small business that enables a family to build wealth for generations to come. Riverside Coworking is a community where work and family can thrive together.

    “The majority of our participants are single mothers with young children,” Klocek said. “By combining child care and other support services within the small business incubator, we’re unlocking the potential of parents as innovators. We’re empowering mothers to pursue their dreams so they can thrive. The two-generation approach nurtures mothers, who are building change, and their children, who will inherit it.”

    Riverside Coworking is located at 3001 S. Riverside Drive in Fort Worth, inside Center for Transforming Lives. For more information, please visit https://riversidecoworking.org/.

    source: Press release


  • On the Move: nonprofit leaders taking on new roles

    On the Move: nonprofit leaders taking on new roles

    This week: Camp Fire, Junior League of Dallas, CEC, Fort Worth Opera, and The Dallas Foundation.

    Camp Fire First Texas has promoted two members of its leadership team into newly established vice president roles. Tamara Clement has been promoted to Vice President of Development, and Sara Mitchell has been promoted to Vice President of Marketing and Communications.

    Clement, who previously served as Director of Development, joined Camp Fire in January 2021. During her tenure, she has led major fundraising initiatives, strengthened donor relationships, and advanced corporate and foundation partnerships. As Vice President of Development, she will oversee philanthropic strategy and revenue diversification to ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability.

    Mitchell, who joined Camp Fire in February 2007, most recently served as Director of Marketing and Communications. Over the past 18 years, she has directed brand strategy, public relations, digital engagement, and customer experience for the organization. In her new role as Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Mitchell will continue to elevate Camp Fire’s story across North Texas, aligning with the organization’s strategic focus on marketing and storytelling as drivers of transformation.

    JUNIOR LEAGUE OF DALLAS IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE 2025 – 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS

    The newly appointed Board of Directors is committed to advancing the Junior League of Dallas’s impact across the Dallas community. Through the proactive leadership and engagement of our League’s trained volunteers, the Board of Directors will continue to harness the power of women, champion voluntarism, and address the city’s most urgent needs.

    The new Junior League of Dallas Board of Directors includes:

    • Lindsay Davis, President
    • Lauren Combest, President-elect
    • Kiki Gao, Administrative Vice President
    • Jenna Berg, Communications Vice President
    • Caitlin Holcomb, Community Vice President
    • Stephanie Kaye Ramirez, Development Vice President
    • Michelle Prudhomme-Coleman, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Vice President
    • Katy Ratley, Finance Vice President
    • Jessica Pantano, Membership Vice President
    • Keisha Dragone, Secretary
    • Melissa Jacobowski, Signature Projects Vice President
    • Cathryn McClellan, Strategy Vice President
    • Dulari Mehta, Training Vice President
    • Laura Johnson, Sustainer Advisor.

    The Community Advisory Board (CAB) is comprised of community leaders representing various areas of expertise: health and human services, government, media, business, law and the arts. The CAB provides strategic guidance in assessing community needs and helps communicate our purpose and programs to the community at large. The Community Advisory Board includes:

    • Byron Sanders, Arete Health, Inc., CEO
    • Norm Bagwell, Bank of Texas, Chairman
    • Brynn Bagot, Brynn Bagot Public Relations, President
    • Martine Philippe, City of Dallas – City Manager’s Office, Director of the Office of Arts and Culture
    • Ashley McIver, Communities Foundation of Texas, Senior Philanthropy Officer
    • Dr. Kesha O’Reilly, Dallas College, District 7 Trustee
    • Vickie Allen, Dallas Foundation, Chief Impact Officer
    • Michael Jackson, Dallas ISD, Executive Director of Magnet Schools
    • Meghan Kelley Wehner, Dallas Regional Chamber, Senior Vice President, Membership
    • Roslyn Dawson Thompson, Dawson Communications + Strategy + Governance, President & CEO
    • Jennifer Scripps, Downtown Dallas Inc., President & CEO
    • Alfreda Norman, Formerly – Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Senior Vice President (Former)
    • Jonathan Blum, Holland & Knight, Partner
    • Sarah Kahn, Housing Forward, President & CEO
    • Jessica Bass Bolander, Lockton Companies (Healthcare), Vice President
    • Margaret Black, Lyda Hill Philanthropies, Managing Director
    • Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew, Reconciliation and Restoration Foundation, Board Chair & Founder
    • Dana Wilcox Ayres, Southern Methodist University, Associate Vice President, Program Services & Donor Relations
    • Anne Kogan, TACA, Director of Programs
    • Karen Hughes White, Texas Women’s Foundation, President & CEO
    • Damion Pourciau, Turner Construction Company, Project Executive
    • Ruben Esquivel, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Vice President for Community and Corporate Relations
    • Gabrielle Madison, Social Impact Executive

    “This year, we’re leaning into the power of gathering with purpose, joy, and vision,” said Dr. Lindsay Davis, 2025 – 2026 president of the Junior League of Dallas. “Our Boards are committed to creating real connection among members, deepening our impact in the Dallas community, and reimagining what training looks like for the modern woman. We believe in the strength of this circle, and we’re excited to get started.” If you would like to learn more or get involved with JLD, please visit the JLD website.

    Fort Worth Opera announces the election of Katherine Polenz as Chair of its Board of Trustees, ushering in a new era of leadership as the organization launches Match the Momentum: 80 Years of Opera in Fort Worth, an ambitious, multi-year fundraising campaign designed to honor its legacy and secure its future.

    Polenz is the Founder of North Star Consulting and former Head of Marketing and Public Relations at the Kimbell Art Museum. Throughout her career, she has served in senior marketing roles at Texas Christian University, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Atlanta Ballet, and Opera Carolina.

    The Dallas Foundation is excited to welcome Felicia Williams as their new Director of Grants Administration. Felicia brings more than 15 years of experience in community engagement, corporate philanthropy, strategic partnerships, and grant program management. In her role, she will oversee our grantmaking processes to ensure effective, efficient, and compliant administration of philanthropic investments that strengthen Dallas and beyond.

    Nicholas Powell, MSML, PMP, LSSMBB, SHRM-CP, ACNP has been promoted to Vice President of Operations at the CEC (Community Enrichment Center). Nick has faithfully served our community with his work at the Community Enrichment Center. When he started 10 years ago we saw 30 to 50 families a day in our pantry. We now see an average of 175 families a day with several days a month over 200. His organizational skills help us move over 15,000 lbs. of food a day to families in need.