Raised in Acres Homes and a graduate of Booker T. Washington class of 1986, Rita Hamilton enjoys helping others and loves working with kids. She grew up in poverty and didn’t get exposed to much outside of her environment, but always knew she wanted to branch out and see what the world had to offer.
She received her cosmetology license in 1993 and became a foster parent in 1998 in the state of Nevada, where she opened a therapeutic foster home. In 2004, she moved back to Houston, and obtained a bachelor’s in theology in 2015. In 2020, she became foster parent of the month and has been with her current agency for 12 years. “I’ve always had love and have love for kids. When my mom passed away, I moved to Reno, and that’s when I found my purpose in life.”
After her mom died, she gave her life to Christ. Hamilton is a faithful member of New Destiny Praise and Worship Center under the leadership of Bishop Dr. Ethan and Dr. Pam Ogletree, located off 4170 W. Greens Road in Houston, where she proudly serves as the leader of the Greeters Committee. Additionally, she serves our veterans and enjoys every minute of it. “I love working with veterans,” Hamilton stated. She began to reflect on her father who served in the Vietnam War, and sadly died nine years ago.
Although Hamilton has had different obstacles and challenges in her life, God placed it on her heart to create Queens & Kings Among Us Foundation, a non-profit organization devoted to empowering faith and self-esteem to girls and boys who are high school seniors in Child Protective Services (CPS) or those who are experiencing financial hardship. The desire is to help them attend their formal events in elegance, regardless of their situation. The goal of the organization is to provide free prom dresses, shoes, purses, ties, suits, and accessories needed to make their prom night special.
The name of the nonprofit has a biblical reference as “Jesus is our king, and so we are all kings and queens,” Hamilton said. She also put “among us” because we are surrounded by each other to help each other.” In addition, the organization is “adjusting one crown at a time,” no matter what someone may be going through. “That’s why I said adjusting because you still have your crown, so we are just going to adjust is to make it straight,” she said.
Over the years, Hamilton has worked with many different kids who are at different levels of their life and who have had great challenges. For those kids who may be going through a hard time she said, “There’s always light at the end of the tunnel. Find that inner voice that will help you make it through…find that positive energy around you whether it’s a teacher, someone from your church, someone in the neighborhood, because sometimes it’s not your family that helps you get through.”
The non-profit is currently preparing for their 3rd annual anniversary and are looking for donations to assist in making this year a huge success. The drive is on March 10, 2023, at Redd’s, which is located off 850 Cypress Creek Pkwy Houston, TX 77067, and will be from 10am – 2pm. They will also hold another drive on April 15th at Shiklozet Fashion Boutique off 1702 1st St. E Suite A in Humble TX 77338. For more information about the organization and upcoming events, you can view their website at https://queensandkingsamongusfoundation.org/.
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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.
