Many people know the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA). Still, only a few are as familiar with the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA). In 1907 when their journey began, YWCA Houston was on a mission to serve women and girls across all generations. The YWCA Houston knows empowering women strengthens every aspect of our communities, especially our families. They have always been dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting worldwide peace, justice, freedom, and dignity. Their vision is that all women and girls in our communities thrive without barriers to opportunity.
YWCA Houston’s programming is designed to help women and girls succeed at every stage of their lives. The training, support, and guidance these women and girls receive allow them to be assets for their families and community leaders. YWCA is the go-to organization to help women enhance their social and personal development and live fulfilling lives.
Dr. Janice Beal is the new YWCA Board President, and sheis a researcher, clinician, author, and behavioral expert. She serves as President of Beal Counseling Associates, and Beal Behavioral Health. Currently, she is contracted as a mental health expert for the Steve Fund, where she serves as the program director for the “Well Being in Color,” a peer mental health educational program and support groups for students of color. This program is unique and has reached over eighty-five hundred students in Houston and New York city. In 2020, she developed and implemented two COVID-19 crisis mental health hotlines and helplines. The first was for our own Houston Independent School District (HISD), reaching out to the student body, parents, teachers, and administrators. Dr. Beal has the skill set, faith in God, and determination to truly make a difference in the Houston community.
For decades, the YWCA Meals on Wheels has been one of the largest providers of Congregate Meal Sites and the second-largest provider of Home Delivered Meals in the City of Houston. In 2022, they served 387,250 meals to vulnerable seniors across 17 neighborhoods. This is an extraordinary accomplishment that deserves to be praised. These services support many people in our community who need daily support. Access to food is essential for healthy families. Nutritional programs allow seniors to remain independent longer and provide more stability for their families while simultaneously receiving nutritious meals, health care checks, access to social workers, and social interaction with their peers.
YWCA Houston operates permanent supportive housing for chronically homeless women (and their children) aged 18-24. They are the only organization in Houston focused on serving this vulnerable population of young women and their families. Supportive services include daycare, GED prep, access to mental health counseling, career development, housing goods, and transportation.
The program maintains 30 scattered-site units with a capacity for 23 single adults and 7 families. Client-centered services prepare residents for housing stability, independent living, and self-sufficiency. We serve 100% chronically homeless people and prioritize those with the most severe service needs and length of homelessness.
In closing, Meals on Wheels and Choices Housing programs are provided in conjunction with additional programming from YWCA Houston, including but not limited to women’s entrepreneurship with small business incubation, case management, individual development Plans, workforce training, life-skills guidance, and youth education/development.
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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.
