Founded in 2005 to address the academic, social and spiritual needs of children on Fort Worth’s southside, Fortress Youth Development Center (Fortress) announced last week that they would be closing, citing primarily broken funding promises for child care subsidies from the State legislature.
“In 2021 and 2022, we carefully accepted federal COVID relief funds to expand our programs, helping families in our community get back to work during an incredibly difficult time. To maintain this expanded capacity, we pursued and received Texas Rising Star 4-Star accreditation, a rigorous process that would allow us to accept Child Care Management Services (CCMS), the state childcare subsidy for Tarrant County.
As Fortress made these shifts, we were informed that abundant CCMS funding would continue to support working families, and much of our sustainability plan was built around these CCMS funds. Unfortunately, Texas legislators have failed to make the necessary investments to ensure qualifying families can receive the support they need. Over two years later, more than 20,000 Tarrant County children remain on the waiting list. Despite our planning and patience, only 3% of Fortress families ever received the subsidy,” shared Stacy Agee Martin, Executive Director at Fortress.
Last fall, the organization accepted defeat on the CCMS funding and pivoted to accepting private pay clients. Enrollment was limited and feedback indicated their 4-day service model didn’t work for working families.
An emergency fundraising campaign was launched last November with some but not total success. As the organization looked at the state and private funding landscape, it made the difficult decision to close its doors and made that announcement via press release last week.
On Monday, Fortress issued a new press release sharing that two foundations had stepped up to help. The Rainwater Foundation and another anonymous foundation have provided temporary relief that allows the organization to continuing serving children and families without interruption while providing time and resources for the organization to explore other restructure and funding avenues to mission impact.
Martin shared that this last minute funding reprieve would allow the organization to continue service uninterrupted, move to a 5-day service model, enroll both private pay and CCMS families, develop a long-term sustainability plan and engage in deeper community collaboration to ensure Southside families continue to receive the services they need.
President Donald Trump has issued a new memo directing U.S. agencies to reevaluate financial support for nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Citing concerns that some NGOs “actively undermine the security, prosperity, and safety of the American people,” the memo mandates that federal funding decisions align with his administration’s priorities.
Specifically, the request is for future funding decisions to align with issued executive orders—potentially impacting grants that support critical humanitarian aid, development programs, and capacity-building initiatives both within the United States and abroad.
Below is a copy of the memo, along with answers to key questions regarding this new guidance. We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates to nonprofits as appropriate.
Below is a full copy of the memo:
SUBJECT: Advancing United States Interests When Funding Nongovernmental Organizations
The United States Government has provided significant taxpayer dollars to Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs), many of which are engaged in actions that actively undermine the security, prosperity, and safety of the American people. It is the policy of my Administration to stop funding NGOs that undermine the national interest.
I therefore direct the heads of executive departments and agencies (agencies) to review all funding that agencies provide to NGOs. The heads of agencies shall align future funding decisions with the interests of the United States and with the goals and priorities of my Administration, as expressed in executive actions; as otherwise determined in the judgment of the heads of agencies; and on the basis of applicable authorizing statutes, regulations, and terms.
Here are some explanations related to this memo:
What is an Executive Order, and what are its powers and limitations? An executive order is a directive issued by the U.S. President that manages operations within the federal government. It has the force of law but does not require congressional approval. Presidents use executive orders to direct federal agencies, enforce laws, or set policies.
Powers: Can direct federal agencies on how to enforce laws. Can influence policy areas like immigration, labor, national security, and foreign aid. Can be issued quickly without congressional approval.
Limitations: Must Be Based on Existing Law – The President cannot create new laws, only direct how existing laws are implemented. Can Be Overturned by Congress – Congress can pass a law overriding an executive order, though the President can veto it. Can Be Challenged in Court – Courts can strike down executive orders if they are unconstitutional or exceed executive authority. Can Be Reversed by Future Presidents – New administrations can revoke or replace previous executive orders.
Nonprofit vs. Nongovernmental Organization A nonprofit organization is a nongovernmental organization and is the term used globally to describe what the United States refers to as nonprofit organizations. Opinion: This memo is likely targeted at nonprofits in the United States working with refugees and other non-citizens and nonprofits funded by USAID to support foreign aid.
What is USAID? The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the U.S. government agency responsible for providing foreign aid and development assistance. It works to promote global economic growth, democracy, humanitarian aid, health, and disaster relief in partner countries to support U.S. foreign policy and national security goals.
How is this different than the previous memo targeting nonprofit funding? The previous memo from President Trump paused all federal funding on contracts, which a federal judge blocked, and the memo was ultimately rescinded. This new memo makes recommendations for future funding; however, there are no measures for alignment.
Opinion: The President can make recommendations for a budget, but it is ultimately the power of Congress (Senate and House of Representatives) to determine appropriations. Unilaterally, the President cannot make budgetary decisions or change funding guidelines.
There is a lot happening in Washington, D.C. right now, with numerous executive orders and policy changes emerging from the Trump Administration. Regardless of political views, these shifts bring questions and potential implications for nonprofit organizations.
Nonprofits should brace for long-term changes in federal grant policies. Organizations must stay informed, adaptable, and engaged with both policymakers and funders to navigate this uncertain landscape.
On January 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM, a new directive from the Trump Administration took effect, placing a temporary freeze on all federal financial assistance programs. This sweeping policy, outlined in a memorandum from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), mandates a pause on issuing new awards, disbursing funds for open awards, and other related activities across federal agencies.
For nonprofits that receive federal grants, this memo presents significant operational and financial challenges. Key concerns include:
Funding Disruptions: Cash flow interruptions could affect payroll, programming, and service delivery.
Grant Cancellations: Awards currently in process, yet not contracted, may be revoked or modified if deemed inconsistent with new priorities.
Increased Oversight: Federal funding recipients should expect heightened scrutiny, with potential audits and performance evaluations.
Program Uncertainty: Nonprofits engaged in DEI, environmental, or international aid work are particularly at risk of funding reductions or termination.
According to the National Council of Nonprofits, the White House issued a new memorandum later rescinding the call to halt federal grants.
Nonprofits were loud, and they were heard!
Based on other executive orders, there will be more developments within the coming weeks, but let’s celebrate this win.
At the North Texas Nonprofit Institute, we understand that staying informed amidst these changes can feel overwhelming. That’s why we are committed to equipping you with reliable resources to track executive orders, assess their impact, and make informed decisions for your organization and those you serve.
We stand ready to support you in navigating these challenges, whether through information, guidance, or opportunities to connect with fellow nonprofit leaders. Together, we can remain adaptable, resilient, and focused on the mission-driven work that strengthens our communities.
Steps Nonprofits Can Take
Given these developments, nonprofit organizations should take proactive steps to mitigate risks:
Assess Current Funding Status – Review all federal grant agreements and pending reimbursements to determine exposure to the freeze.
Communicate with Federal Agencies – Reach out to grant officers for clarity on how this memo affects specific funding streams.
Develop Contingency Plans – Identify alternative funding sources, including private grants, corporate sponsorships, and donor appeals.
Advocate for Support – Engage with policymakers, industry groups, and nonprofit coalitions to push for exemptions or revised policies. Tell elected officials about the importance of these grants and that pausing them will have negative effects.
Enhance Financial Planning – Reduce reliance on federal grants where possible and build emergency reserves to weather funding uncertainties.
Please find below a list of resources to help you stay updated. If we can be of further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.
RESOURCES
Democracy Forward Democracy 2025 Response Center Real-time analysis of Trump-Vance administration actions, to support legal challenges and provide resources.
National Council of Nonprofits Executive Orders Affecting Charitable Nonprofits This document is being updated frequently, so you can click on the link to be sent to the most up-to-date version.
Great Hearts America is a nonprofit school management organization that operates a network of elementary, middle, and high schools in San Antonio, Ft. Worth, and Irving, Texas; the Phoenix, Arizona Metropolitan area; and East Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with new academies planned for Florida in Fall 2025.
Unemployment Insurance Savings:
In 2017, Great Hearts America’s unemployment tax notice showed a reserve balance of over $900,000. This amount reflected the difference between what they paid in state unemployment tax (SUTA) and the actual unemployment claims filed by former employees. However, Great Hearts didn’t own that reserve. Their state’s unemployment agency used it to calculate future tax rates, essentially tying up funds that could have been used elsewhere.
Seeking a more cost-effective approach, Great Hearts America partnered with First Nonprofit’s Bonded Service Program in January 2018. Since then, they’ve cut their unemployment costs by over 60%, achieving over $1 million in savings this year alone. This financial relief has allowed them to redirect critical resources to their educational mission.
Compliance Support:
As remote work surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, Great Hearts America faced new compliance challenges. Nonprofits with employees working across state lines are often uncertain about their unemployment liabilities. Do you need to register for unemployment if only a few staff members work in different states? What are the state requirements for registering an unemployment account?
In 2023, First Nonprofit stepped in to assist Great Hearts America in answering these questions and registering unemployment accounts in four additional states outside of their Arizona headquarters. With First Nonprofit’s continued support, Great Hearts plans to register 15 more state accounts in 2024, ensuring compliance without the administrative burden.
FNP provides state-compliant, individually insured, cost-saving options to satisfy SUI requirements for 501(c)(3) nonprofit, governmental, and tribal entities. We have been the nationwide leader in providing the greatest variety, most unique, and enduring programs for managing state unemployment reimbursing risk for nearly three decades.
The truth behind who pays for unemployment and the often-overlooked hidden costs may surprise you. While many believe individuals pay into a fund, HR and finance staff will tell you that it is employers, including nonprofits, who usually foot the bill*.
501(c)(3) nonprofit, governmental, and tribal entities are all exempt from paying Federal Unemployment Taxes (FUTA). However, most employers must pay state unemployment taxes (SUTA), and only religious entities that operate exclusively for religious purposes are exempt from SUTA. But the following organizations have a unique savings option for paying SUTA:
Nonprofits: Organizations that are exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code
Native American Indian tribes: Tribes and their wholly owned businesses
Government entities: Government entities such as federal, state, and local government agencies
These entities can cover their mandatory unemployment costs in one of two ways:
Paying the state unemployment insurance tax (SUTA)
Reimbursement financing, also known as self-insurance, is a legal right allowing these organizations to opt out of paying SUTA. Instead, they can reimburse their state unemployment agency dollar-for-dollar for unemployment claims paid to former employees. This option can provide significant cost savings for these entities.
Though opting out of paying SUTA can save employers money in the short term, it’s crucial to have a well-thought-out strategic plan accompanying this decision to avoid budgeting volatility in the long term to cover claims costs.
*Alaska, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey employees pay a small tax into their state employment fund.
FNP provides state-compliant, individually insured, cost-saving options to satisfy SUI requirements for 501(c)(3) nonprofit, governmental, and tribal entities. We have been the nationwide leader in providing the greatest variety, most unique, and enduring programs for managing state unemployment reimbursing risk for nearly three decades.
Dallas Hope Charities announced the launch of its groundbreaking “Powering Hope” sustainability project, made possible by a $121,000 grant from Green Mountain Energy Sun Club. This transformative initiative is designed to enhance the energy efficiency and sustainability of the Dallas Hope Center, ensuring a brighter, greener future for the LGBTQIA+ community we serve.
The “Powering Hope” project officially kicked off with a check presentation event on September 4, 2024, where representatives from Green Mountain Energy Sun Club and Dallas Hope Charities gathered to celebrate this impactful project. The grant will fund several key sustainability initiatives at the Dallas Hope Center, including the installation of solar panels, battery storage, an electric vehicle, and an electric vehicle charging station. The center will be 100% powered by solar energy, which will prevent 20,359 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions per year. This is the equivalent of not driving 26,187 miles or recycling 113,477 plastic bottles.
“This grant from Green Mountain Energy Sun Club is a game-changer for Dallas Hope Charities,” said Tamika Perry, Chief Executive Officer at Dallas Hope Charities. “It empowers us to integrate sustainability into our everyday operations, reducing our environmental impact while enhancing the support we provide to our residents.”
The “Powering Hope” project will significantly reduce the Dallas Hope Center’s carbon footprint and operational costs, allowing the organization to redirect savings toward its core mission of providing food, shelter, and services that instill dignity, stability, and hope. The electric vehicle provided by the grant will be used to transport residents to crucial destinations such as job interviews, volunteer opportunities, full-time jobs, internships, and medical and mental health appointments. This vehicle will also support the outreach efforts of Dallas Hope Charities, enabling them to better serve the LGBTQIA+ community across Dallas.
Green Mountain Energy’s mission is to inspire hope and motivate action through the use of clean energy, and to advance sustainable communities through Sun Club. Since its founding in 2002, Sun Club has donated more than $14 million for 164 projects across Texas and the Northeast. Green Mountain Energy invites its customers and employees to contribute and help support more projects that promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, resource conservation, and environmental stewardship.
“At Green Mountain Energy, we’re thrilled to join forces with Dallas Hope Charities on the ‘Powering Hope’ project,” said Andrea Ortega-Toledano, senior director of sustainability, Green Mountain Energy. “This initiative exemplifies our commitment to fostering sustainable communities, and we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on Dallas Hope Charities and the people it serves.”
In addition to the solar panels and an electric vehicle, the “Powering Hope” project includes plans to install electric hand dryers, reduce paper waste and energy consumption, and a rainwater harvesting system for the center’s backyard garden, promoting water conservation and sustainable gardening practices.
Culture Map Fort Worth, an online digital publication for local lifestyle news, recently published a list of Fort Worth’s 10 most fabulous galas of fall 2024. No criteria for determining the fabulousness of the events listed was given.
Ten organizations including Presbyterian Night Shelter and The Ladder Alliance made the cut. And, the articles includes 12 other events of note.
Melinda Opitz, 47, always looked forward to the start of the week. Every Monday, she’d take her 12-year-old son to Hope Center for Autism in Fort Worth.
Opitz’s son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of 10. He received applied behavior analysis therapy and other services from Hope Center and its division, The Bridge of Hope Academy, for two years. He loved it there, Opitz said.
On the evening of March 24, Opitz received a “shocking” email from Hope Center executive director Susan Wood that the nonprofit would be closing its doors immediately due to funding issues. Opitz was going to have to find a new clinic — quickly.
“We were just shell-shocked,” she said. “When you’re doing a therapy that’s working and for it to be disrupted, it throws off this child’s life.”
Unknown to Opitz and other families, Hope Center for Autism’s 990 tax filings revealed inconsistent net income figures in recent years. The nonprofit’s plight underscores the challenges many smaller nonprofit businesses face, according to Barbara Clark-Galupi, publisher of Dallas Fort Worth Nonprofit Business Journal.
“We deeply regret the situation that we found ourselves in, ongoing funding shortfalls, led to the closure,” Susan Wood, executive director at Hope Center, said in a statement. “The decline in successful fundraising events and overall donations over this time period, as well as parents not being able to keep up with their tuition each year, it became harder to keep up.”
‘Exhausted every resource’
In 2022, Hope Center’s revenue was $1,111,572 with expenses of $1,115,742. The organization lost $4,170 that year. Liabilities higher than its assets resulted in negative net assets of $69,298 for the organization.
In 2021, the organization’s revenue was $906,123, but expenses of $1,067,203 resulted in a $161,080 loss.
“We have worked tirelessly and have exhausted every resource in an attempt to continue,” Wood previously wrote on Facebook.
Smaller-scale nonprofits like Hope Center are facing similar financial issues created by challenges in continuous funding, impact of inflation, and shortages in workforce and pay, said Clark-Galupi.
“Over the last few years, nonprofits have been getting strained as those rates come up,” she said. “These nonprofits are competing for funding, donors, and the hearts and wallets of individuals to contribute to their organization.”
In 2023, 66.3% of nonprofits identified budget constraints and insufficient funds, which is mainly related to salary competition, according to a survey conducted by the National Council of Nonprofits.
Seven out of 10 nonprofits anticipated charitable donations to decrease or remain flat in 2023, while 68.7% of nonprofits anticipate the number of donors to decrease or remain flat, according to another study from the National Council of Nonprofits.
Those struggling nonprofit organizations should develop strategies that boost their community presence and fundraising revenue to help generate money, said Clark-Galupi.
Former employee, client search for answers
Hope Center for Autism focused on providing services and support to families who have children with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disabilities at its Fort Worth and Wichita Falls locations.
What is autism spectrum disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others. It also affects how they communicate, learn and behave. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it generally appears in the first two years of life. The abilities of people with autism can vary significantly.
The organization’s applied behavior analysis therapy focuses on improving social skills, including communication, academics, fine motor dexterity, hygiene and job competence.
Hope Center’s The Bridge of Hope Academy, a division which also closed, offered kindergarten to fourth grade classes focused on individualized academic learning. The staff taught core subjects, such as math, science and reading, as well as art and social skills.
Hope Center for Autism’s services offered support to families who have children with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disabilities at its Fort Worth and Wichita Falls locations. (David Moreno | Fort Worth Report)
Michael Finn was suddenly out of a job, but her first concern was for her six clients. As a board certified behavior analyst at Hope Center, she knew children on her caseload were reliant upon ABA therapy. She began referring families to other clinics for free, she said.
“I have an ethical obligation to them to not just ditch them,” she said. “I wanted to make sure they got all the assessments, treatment plans and information on other centers nearby. It’s about making sure they still felt supported even through this.”
Other ABA therapy options in Fort Worth
Fort Worth clinics with ABA therapy include The Full Spectrum Child, Action Behavior Centers, Autism Treatment Center, Lighthouse Therapy Center of Fort Worth, ACES Fort Worth and Thrive Behavior Centers.
Finn had been notified via email of Hope Center for Autism’s closure the same day as Opitz and was told not to come into work the next day. Wood and Troy Hall, the operations manager at Hope Center, weren’t effectively communicating after the email was sent out, she said.
“Susan was not communicative at first,” said Finn. “I honestly wasn’t believing it at first and I messaged Troy and he never responded.”
Finn said she and other board certified behavior analysts at Hope Center weren’t made aware of any financial issues before the closure.
“Therapy is funded by insurance, so we are really confused how it’s even possible for this to happen,” she said. “If therapy is paid for and then some, plus we have donations coming in, where is the money going? Why couldn’t we have switched to in-home therapy to avoid the need to pay for property?”
Opitz said it has been difficult finding another clinic in Fort Worth that can provide applied behavior analysis therapy to her son. Several clinics she has applied for, with assistance from Finn, are waitlisted until May, she said.
“This has been really hard for me,” she said. “It’s like we’re back at square one. We didn’t have any time to plan things.”
Optiz’s son has also been struggling with the closure.
“He’s frustrated with it and he’s sad, because he loves those people,” she said. “All of a sudden, his structure was dropped. We’re leaning on his other therapies, but there is a missing link.”
Opitz wishes Hope Center for Autism had been transparent with its clients about its financial situation.
“Susan is an amazing woman and Hope was an amazing place, but I just don’t understand why the board didn’t give prior notice,” said Opitz. “If (Hope Center) had informed us they were in dire need, that would’ve been helpful. I wish more people would have known, we could have saved the operation somehow, someway.”
Nonprofit organizations should strive to be transparent with their clients, community and organizations stakeholders, said Clark-Galupi.
“Authenticity and trust is the new currency,” she said. “It’s imperative that (nonprofits) continue to earn and retain the public’s trust. Oftentimes it’s seen as a deficit. It’s usually better to keep people in the loop in advance.”
Wood said Hope Center for Autism will remain closed.
David Moreno is the health reporter for the Fort Worth Report. His position is supported by a grant from Texas Health Resources. Contact him at david.moreno@fortworthreport.org or @davidmreports on X.
At the Fort Worth Report, news decisions are made independently of our board members and financial supporters. Read more about our editorial independence policy here.
This article first appeared on Fort Worth Report and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
Taking a giant step toward growth and prosperity in South Dallas, leaders from the nonprofit Forest Forward and members of the community recently broke ground on the historic 75-year-old Forest Theater, marking the start of major renovations and an expansion to the iconic landmark.
The Forest Theater was known in its heyday as a mecca of art, music and community gatherings. Opened in 1949, it was a treasured hub that welcomed legendary artists such as Tina Turner, Prince, Sidney Poitier and Gladys Knight & the Pips.
“Today’s groundbreaking at the Forest Theater symbolizes community partnership and collaboration at it’s very best – because when we come together to work toward a common vision, we are unstoppable,” said Elizabeth Wattley, president and CEO of Forest Forward. “A project of this magnitude cannot be done alone but will only thrive with the buy-in and support from the entire community.”
Cheered on by a crowd of 700-plus attending the groundbreaking block party, leaders pledged to return the iconic Forest Theater to its glory but also to make it an anchor for a massive revitalization program for South Dallas. The Forest Forward vision includes re-establishing the theater as a thriving neighborhood anchor and versatile arts center, creating cradle-to-college education pathways with Dallas ISD through the formation of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Arts Academy, and developing mixed-income housing surrounding the theater.
A highlight of the evening came as Wattley announced that Margo Perot and her family had donated $1 million to the Forest Forward initiative.
The theater’s renovation is an integral part of Phase I of a $75.215 million transformative infusion of resources into the heart of zip code 75215 in South Dallas, creating a vibrant new core for the City of Dallas. Phase I will not only reinstate the Forest Theater to its original elegance but will also include a major addition. Once complete, the theater complex will yield 66,000 square feet encompassing a 13,000-square-foot arts education hub; a 1,000-plus seat performance hall; a multi-use, 200-seat studio theater; a recording studio; and amenities such as a café, restaurant and roof-top feature. Renovations are expected to be completed by December 2025.
“The Forest Theater is the result of a successful private-public partnership that will serve as a decisive catalyst for not only economic development and growth but arts education and much-needed affordable housing,” said U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett (TX-30). “Forest Forward’s remarkable $75 million vision – focused upon an often-forgotten community – has the potential to reimagine and bolster Sunny South Dallas, positively affecting generations to come.”
Located on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, the Forest Theater will feature lower-floor, mezzanine and upper-balcony seating; a large stage and orchestra pit; concessionaire areas; a lush lobby; box offices and more. The Forest Theater’s popular marquee sign, known for its distinctive neon-green tower topped with a red ball, will be refreshed with new color and lighting.
The design architect for the Forest Theater project is HKS, and the co-general contractors are the Linbeck Group and Con-Real Construction. Managing the construction process is The Projects Group. The Forest Theater renovation is expected to achieve a targeted 75% MWBE (Minority/Women Business Enterprise) participation goal.
Dignitaries participating in today’s ceremonies were U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, State Senator Royce West, State Representative Venton Jones, Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price; Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson and Dallas City Council Member Adam Bazaldua. Also delivering remarks were Forest Forward board chair Matrice Ellis-Kirk and board members Linda and Jon Halbert, Forest Forward president/CEO Elizabeth Wattley, and Amanda Vela, senior vice president for Region 300 stores, Target.
Additionally, numerous grass-roots leaders from Southern Dallas manned shovels and helped turn over the first ceremonial scoops of dirt.
“The renovation of The Forest Theater is more than just revitalizing a historically significant structure,” said Dallas City Council Member Adam Bazaldua. “Investing in and highlighting the theater’s historic significance is symbolic of the commitment of so many, to preserving South Dallas’ History while investing in new resources and assets for the community to grow. I am proud of the work that Forest Forward has already done, but even more proud and excited to continue working with them and seeing this project come to fruition.”
Overcoming a challenging history, beloved Forest Theater will soon return to life, spurring changes
The Forest Theater has a rich and diverse history. It was built in 1949 by Karl Hoblitzelle, the successful developer of the Majestic, Lakewood and Inwood theaters. At the time, Forest Theater served a predominantly Jewish population who resided in South Dallas.
In the early 1950s, construction of US Highway 175 adjacent to the Forest Theater began, causing the demolition of 1,400 homes, dividing neighborhoods and sparking white flight. After segregation and redlining took its toll, the Forest Theater eventually transitioned to serve the growing African American population.
After experiencing numerous closures and uses – including being used as a place of worship, a gathering spot for Girl Scouts and an arts center operated by musician Erykah Badu – the Forest Theater has remained largely vacant since 2009. In 2017, it was acquired by a philanthropic couple committed to equity in the arts and education, and Forest Forward later obtained ownership.
Currently, as part of the Texas Department of Transportation’s S. M. Wright Phase II project, the freeway is being converted into a six-lane, street-level boulevard with traffic signals. Overpasses will be removed, and landscaping and sidewalks will be added to the boulevard, returning it to the walkable neighborhood it once was.
The Forest Forward vision unveiled: Improving outcomes for children, residents and families
Founded in 2017, Forest Forward’s mission is to drive equitable development and economic mobility and improve outcomes for children, residents and families of the South Dallas community. This is particularly important because, according to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, an individual’s zip code predicts life expectancy more than their genetic code. The life expectancy in the 75215 zip code is 67 years, the lowest in the Dallas area.
The Forest Forward vision is the result of thousands of hours of direct input and involvement from members of the South Dallas community. Early on, Forest Forward leaders met – and listened closely – to everyone from families living in South Dallas for decades, to community and faith-based leaders, business owners and educators, to artists, performers and even children. Embraced by the community, Forest Forward is a grass-roots initiative at heart that represents the invaluable insights, ideas and dreams of those who live, work, learn and play in South Dallas.
The North Texas Nonprofit Institute has announced it will host an exclusive screening of “Uncharitable,” a film based on the book of the same name by Dan Pallotta.
The North Texas Nonprofit Institute’s (NTX NPI) works to support and strengthen nonprofits by providing them with the necessary resources and knowledge to succeed. Through workshops, resources, and networking programs, NTX NPI aims to build community leaders, impactful organizations, and thriving communities.
The screening will be Wednesday, December 6 from 1pm – 3 pm at the Studio Movie Grill in the Arlington Highlands. Tickets are $15 per person and include drink and popcorn.
About the movie
What if charity could be transformed from a gesture to an answer— to solving the world’s greatest problems? What if everything we’ve been taught about charitable giving is wrong? What if it’s undermining the very causes, we love the most?
“Uncharitable” is a one-of-a-kind movie that shows how our charitable traditions and prejudices have suffocated the charitable sector and prevented it from leading the charge to truly change the world.
Based on the book, “Uncharitable,” by Dan Pallotta, which became one of the most talked-about TED talks of all time—changing everything from charity watchdog standards to the giving practices of America’s biggest foundations — Uncharitable follows the stories of four iconic American charitable efforts that were crippled or destroyed by old ideas. Step-by-step, and with a chorus of leading voices in the field, the movie shows how charity’s real power has been misunderstood and undermined by anachronistic ideas about frugality and deprivation and takes the viewer on a journey from sach-cloth and ashes to a place where unleashed, charities can play the leading role in creating an unimaginably beautiful world that works for everyone.
No topic is more crucial or timelier as we confront a world with increasingly complex problems, with the least of us left behind, and with the growing revelation that we are all interconnected and that our fate lies in our willingness to turn away from old ideas that have not worked and embraced radically new ones that can.
