By: Chelsea Davis-Bibb, Ed.D.
Founded in 2009 by Edna Griggs, Acres of Angles is a membership-based organization that goes out and do different events with seniors who may have been overlooked. The purpose of the organization is to “bring awareness to physical health and empower them to be able to live the rest of their life in dignity.” Over the years, the organization has made such a great impact in the lives of many seniors. Griggs made it known that the seniors are very appreciative that someone has taken the time to look out for them. She stated, “They are so involved and so excited just knowing that somebody cares about them and have not forgotten them.”
Acres of Angels hosts many events throughout the year for the seniors. One of the events include a senior gala where seniors can dress up, play bingo, and enjoy the evening. Different vendors are also present from the medical community to give them different resources they may need. They also have a diabetes walk, which hits close to home for Griggs as she is living with diabetes. The diabetes walk is an event that is used to help bring awareness to the illness as well as the importance of eating healthy. She made it known that there is a disparity within the community when it comes to healthy food and vegetables.
The walk is held at Lincoln Park every year so that it is convenient for those in the community to participate. Amongst those in attendance this year was Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee who talked about the importance of having events like the diabetes walk. Griggs also discussed how during the pandemic many people with chronic illnesses lost their life and how diabetes was one of the illnesses.
The organization also hosts a women empowerment summit every year. During the summit, women come together to help uplift each other. There are different speakers who come and talk to the women, and they receive information regarding health and wellness.
In addition to helping the seniors, Acres of Angels does activities with kids who come from economically disadvantaged homes. Griggs mentioned how some of them feel disconnected and feel like they’ve been forgotten. Through the organization, Griggs makes it her mission to help improve the community around them by educating them on different things and bringing resources to them. Some of the kids she helps have a lot of issues at home, don’t have adequate resources, and look at school as a safe haven, but still don’t receive the support they need. She also discussed how some kids are being bullied and there are fights amongst each other due to the limited resources.
During the pandemic, the organization also started a group for young men called Boys 2 Men. The purpose of the group is to educate the young men, get them involved in something, and make sure they graduate. During the pandemic, the organization has held zoom meetings and partnered with different high schools in the Aldine Independent School District. The organization had different individuals such as judges and attorneys to come in and speak with the kids to try and encourage them to stay in school and do the right thing. The pandemic took a toll on our young people as many dropped out of school. Acres of Angels is making it their mission to not allow these young men to become another statistic in their community.
Griggs wants to continue to empower our youth and to let them know that they can be anything they want to be. She stated. “First, they have to trust God. He must be number one. If you keep him number one, there is nothing that will stop them from achieving the goals they want to in life.
Griggs is a proud resident of the Acres Homes community and continues to serve the community daily. She received this vison to create the organization from God in the middle of the night. She recalled God speaking to her and stated, “You have acres and acres of land, and you’re the angel who needs to help the community.” She turned this vision into a reality and has been going ever since.
It is people like her who continue to make their mark on the lives of others. In the words of Dorothy Height, “Without community service, we would not have a strong quality of life. It’s important to the person who serves as well as the recipient. It’s the way in which we ourselves grow and develop.”
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
