It was Coretta Scott King who said, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” This is why Deron Gadsden, founder of BE Impactful, created the non-profit organization in 2021, that is focused on community empowerment through social intervention, educational engagements, and community improvement projects.
As a community, Gadsden noticed that we lacked access to either resources or information in various formats, so BE Impactful acts as a bridge from the community to the resources needed. One of their premiere events includes Black Literature Matters, which occurs every Black History Month and is an opportunity “to expose our community to Black authors, Black publishers, Black publishing companies, and Black bookstores that they may not know exist.” This helps to create a platform for those creatives to come and be supported by a new customer base. “We advocate for both people that want to step into that space as well as people that can understand what representation looks like in that space,” Gadsden said.
Another event BE Impactful hosted was an event surrounding mental health awareness. They had mental health professionals that focused on the various eight dimensions of wellness. This included physical therapy, emotional trauma, relationship wellness, and financial wellness. In attendance were also trainers and nutritionists to talk about health as well. For Gadsden, it is all about creating access for people and linking them to resources that can improve their well-being.
The inspiration behind creating BE Impactful was derived from Gadsden wanting to do something for the community even though he didn’t know exactly what he wanted it to be. He started doing research and thought about where we as a community and culture best aligned. He found that we were best served as a culture pre-segregation. “When we all had to focus on this one small community, unfortunately by force…whether you were a doctor, a mechanic, or a schoolteacher, you all lived on the same block, and you all served each other.” Gadsden discussed the circulation of the Black dollar because during that time there was nowhere else for Black people to shop but in the Black community. Gadsden wanted to recreate this and the concept of “Black Wallstreet” and implement this into the community where everyone’s able to touch everyone.
The BE Impactful logo is a stamp with a fingerprint with the idea that everyone has their own fingerprint. “Everyone has their own opportunity, their own unique way of being impactful. Our goal is just to make sure that we put a platform on so that everyone has the opportunity to do it.” Gadsden described it as “collective impact,” which is how we the community spend time together while making an impact. He further stated how the fingerprint in the logo is the most important part because everyone’s choice of impact is unique to them. “Whether you do it alone, whether you do it with others, whether it’s art, whether it’s engineering, whether it’s newspapers…choose to BE Impactful while you do it.”
From toy drives to food giveaways, helping the homeless, and so much more, BE Impactful is truly making its mark on our communities. Gadsden encourages everyone to BE Impactful stating, “You can BE Impactful in any way, shape, or form. There’s no real format to it, but as long as you leave the situation better than you found it, then you were impactful.”
For more information about BE Impactful, you can follow their Instagram page @beimpactfulfoundation, or visit their website at www.beimpactful.net.
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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.
