Join Janice Weaver Blood Drive Sat Sept 9th Young Women's College Preparatory Academy-National Sickle Cell Awareness Month

One Body Networking Inc., in partnership with the Young Women’s College Preparatory School and Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center, cordially invites you to join us for our 3rd Annual Blood Drive (OBN 10th Year Anniversary) and special 911 Remembrance Day. This event will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy, located at 1906 Cleburne Street. We hope you will join us at our brief ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. In remembrance of the brave men and women who lost their lives on the day America were attacked 22 years ago. The commemorative program Saluting First Responders this year we will honor Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, Constable May Walker and Captain Edwin Davis. In addition, we will be supporting National Sickle Cell Awareness Month in support of our own Senator Boris Miles. Our goal with Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is to collect 100 units of blood. As you know that on September 9, 2013, a rare blood disease paused my life. After receiving several hundred units of plasma and 10 years later I continue my effort to educate individuals and SAVE LIVES continues. You have supported by donating blood or to our scholarships before and I hope you will consider doing it again. Sign up to donate at onebodynetworking.org or scan QR code. We hope you will say YES!!!! Thanks so much for your continued support! Janice Weaver One Body Networking 1 in 3 Million Chosen By God onebodynetworking.org #JW13

Lots of Scholarships Black Scholarships.org website

https://www.blackscholarships.org/

Follow HBCU Money Guide for Scholarships

HBCU Money Guide page on Instagram and wonderful scholarship information is shared almost daily for HBCU students. I recommend those of you on social media to follow this account so that you are aware of scholarships. Many are shared with a short turnaround deadline.

$10,000 Eli Lilly Scholarship

$10,000 Eli Lilly Scholarship for HBCU for rising sophomores. Here's the link to the Instagram post: Eli Lilly Scholarship IG Post https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtMXJQcR6HT/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D If you're unable to access the link, here is the link to the website for more information HBCU $10K STEM Scholarship

NASA INTERNSHIPS VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR - ACCOUNTING, FINANCE, DATA ANALYTICS - ANY STUDENT WILL BENEFIT FROM THIS EVENT!

PATHWAYS APPLICATIONS OPEN Sept 11th - 15th in USAJOBS

PLEASE JOIN JANICE WEAVER TODAY!! FUN EVENT SAVING LIVES!!

Northeast Farmer's Market

HIRE HOUSTON YOUTH - YEAR ROUND OPPORTUNITIES TO PROVIDE AND OBTAIN JOBS

ire Houston Youth Hire Houston Youth, launched in 2016, serves as the facilitator to connect youth to local jobs where they are empowered with an “earn and learn” opportunity in Houston’s dynamic economy. It is the first city-wide, collective impact and workforce development effort that brings together hundreds of unique, outstanding partners from our diverse city. Youth and young adults, ages 16–24, can apply for paid summer jobs and internships in the public, private, and philanthropic sectors. Since 2016, the Hire Houston Youth Program has facilitated 32,000 jobs and internships. To learn more, please visit hirehoustonyouth.org.

Railroad ELIMINATION grant - City of Houston LARGEST IN TEXAS

City of Houston Mayor's Office Media Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: 06/07/2023 View this email in your browser City of Houston Awarded $36.91 Million in Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Funding, Largest Allocation in the State of Texas HOUSTON - The United States Department of Transportation announced today that the City of Houston will receive $36.91 million in federal funding through the Railroad Crossing Elimination grant program for the West Belt Improvement Project (Phase I). The award is the largest allocation in the state of Texas. This funding will ensure the reconstruction of the Navigation Boulevard railroad underpass and the construction of the Commerce Street underpass. Additionally, a new underpass on York Street will be constructed. The Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program was created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This competitive discretionary grant program will help improve safety, eliminate lengthy delays at railroad crossings, and lower the costs of transporting goods, thus making them more affordable for American families. Today’s announcement is the fourth grant awarded to the City of Houston since the law passed in 2021. The West Belt Improvement Project (Phase 1) is the first phase of implementing a future 14,600-foot sealed rail corridor along the Houston Belt & Terminal Railroad’s West Belt Subdivision. Phase 1 includes the construction of four underpasses and closure of four at-grade crossings to eliminate seven existing at-grade crossings and reconstruct one underpass to current standards. When completed, Phase 1 will have an opportunity to create a 9,000-foot sealed corridor and quiet zone. “This funding is a crucial step in improving transportation equity for all users,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. “The West Belt Improvement Project will help address the impacts of slow, stopped and longer trains that block crossing by eliminating the at grade conflict. This will enhance safety for our first responders and increase travel reliability for those commuting and living in the East End.” A study completed by the Gulf Coast Rail District in 2012 identified Commerce/Navigation and York/Sampson, as critical for general purpose connectivity and as alternate routes for emergency responders. The Commerce Street/Navigation Boulevard underpass will provide direct access to downtown, Dynamo Stadium, and Minute Maid Park. The York Street underpass will provide direct access to Interstate Highway 45, University of Houston, and Texas Southern University. The City of Houston thanks the following elected officials, community partners, and stakeholders for their support: • Texas State Senator Carol Alvarado, District 6 • Gabe Cazares, Executive Director, LINKHouston • Texas State Representative Ana Hernandez, House District 143 • Councilmember Robert Gallegos, District I • Marc D. Williams, P.E., Executive Director, Texas Department of Transportation • Councilmember Karla Cisneros, District H • Texas State Senator Borris Miles, District 13 • Veronica Chapa Gorczynski, President, East End District • Clint Schelbitzki, Assistant Vice President Public Affairs, Union Pacific Railroad • David Hawes, Executive Director, Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ 23) • Ramiro Barba, General Manager, Houston Belt and Terminal Railway Company • Frances Castañeda Dyess, President, East End Chamber of Commerce • John Walker, President, Houston Dynamo Football Club • Thomas C. Lambert, President & Chief Executive Officer, METRO • Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, District 18 • Gordon Quan, Chairman, Board of Directors, East Downtown Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ 15) • Texas State Representative Harold Dutton, Jr., District 142 • Texas State Representative Christina Morales, District 145 • Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, District 29 More details about the Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program and the West Belt Improvement Project (Phase 1) can be found here.

Early Voting Jobs Oct 15th - Dec 15th $17 an hour

Club Meetings & Volunteer Opportunities | Harris County Democrats The Harris County Democratic Party is seeking seasonal workers to join the Early Voting Ballot Board, Signature Verification Committee, and Central Count on days, afternoons, and some weekends for a minimum of 4 hour and a maximum of 8 hour shifts at a contract rate of $17 / hour intermittently from October 15th through December 15th, 2023. Please provide your availability, and we will do our best to work around your schedule. Please email us at earlyvotingballotboard@harrisdemocrats.com JD attached below Hiring%20Immediately%20Ballot%20Board%20and%20Central%20Count%20Election%20Workers.pdf Sincerely,

NAACP Homes for Houston Housing Workshop - additional dates at the QR CODE

  REGISTER HERE NAACP Houston Branch 713-526-3389 housing@naacphouston.org naacphouston.org See what's happening on our social sites: Facebook Twitter Instagram

Houston's first Equity Study Released

City of Houston Mayor's Office Media Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: 07/11/2023 View this email in your browser Mayor Turner Announces One Complete Houston, Featuring Results of City's First Equity Indicator Study HOUSTON - Today, Mayor Sylvester Turner joined community and business leaders at the Sunnyside Health and Multiservice Center to announce the findings of the City of Houston's first equity indicator study. Conducted by Rice University's Kinder Institute for Urban Research with funding from Shell USA, Inc., the report uses equity scores to identify socioeconomic inequalities exacerbated by biases based on race, ethnicity, gender, and ZIP codes. The equity scores are not pass-or-fail measurements of progress toward our goal of being a more equitable city. Houston’s overall equity score is 44.1 out of 100, delineating a need for improvements. Compared to other cities that have used the Equity Indicators methodology, Houston’s score is higher than Dallas’s 2021 score of 38 and Tulsa’s 2022 score of 42.63. However, Houston follows behind St. Louis’s 2018 score of 45.57 and Pittsburgh’s 2018 score of 55. The findings from this study highlighted the areas where the City of Houston can improve and progress toward becoming more equitable. Those areas include adjusting city policies and procedures; business strategies; corporate environment; social and governance initiatives; philanthropic investment models; nonprofit missions; and other efforts that can limit Houstonians’ opportunities and life circumstances "One Complete Houston sheds light on the complex causes and compounding effects of inequities and sets a foundation for developing potential solutions to those challenges,” said Mayor Turner. “All neighborhoods have value and promise, and all kids across our city can succeed if we give them an opportunity.” "We all have the responsibility of working to make Houston more equitable so we can achieve the United States' ultimate aspirational goal of true equality," said Director of Complete Communities Shannon Buggs. Following remarks by Shell USA's Christina Jones, and presentation of the report by Daniel Potter, from the Kinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice University, today's event concluded with a panel discussion moderated by Houston City Councilmember Tiffany Thomas featuring directors of the City of Houston's Public Works, Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs and the Houston Parks Department. The collaborative work of the Houston Planning and Development Department, the Mayor's Office of Resilience and Sustainability, and the Mayor's Office of Complete Communities aligned with the Kinder Institute's work on the vision and framework outlined in the Resilient Houston strategy and the 10 Complete Communities Action Plans. "In six months, I will no longer be mayor, but it doesn't mean the investment in our communities should not continue. It is important for this city to invest in neighborhoods and people that have been overlooked far too long," said Mayor Turner. Contact: Mary Benton Director of Communications Office: 832.393.0830 Mobile: 713.208.6229 Mary.Benton@houstontx.gov Deidrea George Press Secretary Office: 832.393.0800 Mobile: 832.763.6972 deidrea.george@houstontx.gov Javelle Johnson Deputy Press Secretary/ Public Information Officer Office: 832.393.0808 Mobile: 832.571.7091 Javelle.Johnson@houstontx.gov

Climate Change in Houston - Mayor's Office of Resilience and Sustainability

City of Houston Mayor's Office Media Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: 07/13/2023 View this email in your browser Mayor Turner Releases Three-Year Update for Resilient Houston and the Climate Action Plan HOUSTON - July 13, 2023 – The City of Houston has released a combined update detailing the impressive progress made on major initiatives of both Resilient Houston and the Climate Action Plan after three years of implementation. “Earth Day HTX 2023 marked three years of laser-focused cooperation between all city departments and our dedicated community partners to push forth initiatives for a cleaner, greener Houston and I’m proud to say that we are exceeding expectations mapped out in these two plans,” proclaimed Mayor Turner. “We track 30 measurable goals and are transparent with where we are on each one of them. We are on track to meet or exceed almost every goal and even though this is my last year in office, the wheels are in motion for future administrations to continue building on this success.” Resilient Houston and the Climate Action Plan helped cement the foundation for Mayor Turner’s vision of making Houston a more resilient and sustainable city. Built on existing efforts, the plans focus on challenges like preparing Houstonians for uncertainty, ensuring neighborhood safety and the equitable distribution of resources, planning for the energy transition, optimizing urban infrastructure, and other vital components. The plans outline specific actions for the city, partners, and communities to come together to solve these challenges, with an emphasis on the most vulnerable populations. “The details and specifics outlined in each goal associated with these plans help make them trackable and achievable,” stated Chief Resilience and Sustainability Officer Priya Zachariah. “The key to continued success is making sure we share and publicize our progress so everyone involved knows what still needs to be done and so we can stay accountable to our promises to the community.” Some of the major milestones achieved include: Our greenhouse gas emissions inventory (2020) showed a 10% reduction from the 2014 baseline. The City was awarded an A rating from the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) once again in 2022. The City achieved its Gold designation as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Cities by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). More than 214,134 trees were planted by the City and other entities in 2022. This brings the total to over 1.4 million trees planted since 2019, out 4.6 million by 2030 – or over 31% of the goal. In addition, the City has launched a Tree Equity platform aimed at not only collecting information from tree plantings by our major partners, non-profit agencies, and communities but also educating entities on where to plant trees by providing heat map information, as well as existing disparities in total canopy cover. In 2022, the Houston City Council approved the Nature Preserve Ordinance - an ordinance designed to protect 7,423 acres of natural habitat in City of Houston parks. Sixteen green stormwater infrastructure projects were completed in 2022, marking a total of 86 projects completed within the first three years, or 86% of the goal completion. Twenty miles of high-comfort bike lanes were built in 2022, bringing the total number of bikeway miles to 406 out of a goal of 500 miles – or 81% completion. In April 2022, the City of Houston adopted a Municipal Building Decarbonization and Benchmarking policy. And the Houston Airport System (HAS) started engaging in the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA). In March 2023, HAS published a policy statement letter to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, gathered information to establish its carbon footprint at each of the City’s three airports in pursuit of Level 1 accreditation, and has already begun documentation for Level 2 accreditation. In 2022, we kicked off the Climate Resilience Measurement for Communities (CRMC) project in partnership with Resilient Cities Network (RCN), identifying two communities with extreme heat and flood impacts and completing the data collection under Phase 1 of the project. The latest data (2021) shows that annual local solar generation in Houston increased to 148,030 MWh. Demand for solar permits is growing exponentially – the number of permits had already doubled from the end of 2019 to the end of 2021 and grew another 66% in 2022. The City's efforts to increase solar investments are supporting this trend: the City launched a group-buying campaign with Solar United Neighbors (SUN) - growing participation from under 300 to over 1,600 registrants in 2022. Larger projects such as the Sunnyside Landfill Solar Farm and future additional solar arrays at City facilities such as the airports and facilities designated as Resilience Hubs will also add significant local solar generating capacity. Our 2022-2023 purchases of Electric Vehicles (EVs) will more than triple the number of EVs in the municipal fleet. The City now operates 333 hybrid electric vehicles and 88 battery electric vehicles. Within a year, the City is expecting delivery of another 107 battery electric vehicles and 41 hybrid electric vehicles. Three additional neighborhood resilience plans were completed in 2022 (Independence Heights, East Houston, and Edgebrook Area). In September 2022, the City signed an MOU with the Houston Community College to train 500,000 Houstonians in Resilience. Greentown Labs has 75 Houston-based Energy 2.0 member companies today and has supported 98 since opening, way over the initial target of 50 2.0 companies by 2025. The Houston Recycling Collaboration already started collecting “all plastics,” including plastics such as Styrofoam, plastic bags and films which are not currently accepted in curbside recycling at pilot dropoff locations and is also helping the Houston Independent School District (HISD) roll out recycling programs at its campuses. In terms of national and international leadership in climate action, Mayor Turner led a delegation to Mexico City to launch the RCN initiative Women in Resilience in November 2022. In September 2022, the City of Houston hosted Queen Maxima of the Netherlands and signed a Letter of Intent with the City of Rotterdam to collaborate on community and energy resilience. While the three-year combined report provides detailed information on Houston’s progress towards our Resilient Houston and Climate Action Plan goals and targets, a web interface is also available to provide a visual overview of progress towards our main targets. The Resilience and Recovery Tracker is available on Rice University’s website through a partnership with Rice University’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research. -more- Resilient Houston and Climate Action Plan Three-Year Report Resilience and Recovery Tracker (Rice University Website) Climate Action Plan Resilient Houston About the Mayor’s Office of Resilience and Sustainability The Mayor’s Office of Resilience and Sustainability is responsible for implementing Resilient Houston and the Houston Climate Action Plan (CAP). Together, these documents provide a clear framework to foster the growth of a Houston that is both a healthy place to live, as well as an equitable, inclusive, and affordable city that leads in climate mitigation and adaptation and offers a transformative economy that builds forward. To learn more about the CAP or Resilient Houston, visit www.greenhoustontx.gov . Contact: Mary Benton Director of Communications Office: 832.393.0830 Mobile: 713.208.6229 Mary.Benton@houstontx.gov Deidrea George Press Secretary Office: 832.393.0800 Mobile: 832.763.6972 Deidrea.George@houstontx.gov Javelle Johnson Deputy Press Secretary/ Public Information Officer Office: 832.393.0808 Mobile: 832.571.7091 Javelle.Johnson@houstontx.gov

Get Involved - Out to Learn - City of Houston recognized by the Dept of Education

City of Houston Mayor's Office Media Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: 07/19/2023 View this email in your browser Mayor's Office of Education and Youth Engagement Recognized as Ally by United States Department of Education HOUSTON - The Mayor's Office of Education and Youth Engagement has achieved a momentous milestone in its commitment to fostering academic and holistic development among the youth. The United States Department of Education recently recognized the Office as an official ally of the Engage Every Student initiative. A bold new call to action to provide high-quality out-of-school time learning opportunities for every child who wants to participate. "There are so many issues surrounding our young people that have been left unaddressed for far too long, such as the lack of accessibility to afterschool and summer programs," said Mayor's Office of Education and Youth Engagement Director Olivera Jankovska. "Receiving this recognition from the U.S. Department of Education demonstrates that our efforts are aligned with national priorities to advance education." The recent acknowledgment solidifies the Office's dedication to empowering our youth's educational journey beyond the classroom. In a testament to their commitment, the Mayor's Office of Education and Youth Engagement attended the United States Department of Education’s Raise the Bar Summit in Washington, D.C. to further their expertise and foster collaborations. They were joined by other school district leaders, state and city elected officials, and summer and afterschool learning program providers to celebrate the collective efforts made at the national, state, and local levels to ensure students have access to high-quality afterschool and summer programs. “The City of Houston is proud to champion these opportunities for our children and youth,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner. “We look forward to working with the U.S. Department of Education to provide schools and communities the connections and assistance they need to expand access to afterschool and summer learning programs.” In partnership with United Way of Greater Houston, Houston Endowment, and the Harris County Department of Education, the Mayor’s Office of Education and Youth Engagement leads the Out 2 Learn program, a public-private partnership committed to expanding access to high-quality out-of-school time services to all families in the Greater Houston region through a coordinated, youth-centered approach. Out 2 Learn network comprised of out-of-school time program providers gathered at the February 2023 Quarterly Meeting “We are thrilled to collaborate with the City of Houston as we work together to champion out-of-school time opportunities for young people,” said Brandis Stockman, Senior Program Specialist at the National League of Cities. “Through the Engage Every Student initiative, and by welcoming Houston to our After School Policy Advisors Network, the National League of Cities looks forward to continuing our powerful partnership to drive meaningful impact and empower students to reach their full potential beyond the classroom.” Children spend 80% of their waking hours outside of school, and what happens after the school bell rings can be the difference between success and failure. Research shows that children who participate in after-school programs engage more in class and express higher aspirations for pursuing a college degree. In February 2023, the Mayor’s Office of Education and Youth Engagement welcomed the spring 2023 cohort of O2L Youth Leaders. The decision to include youth voices in O2L aligns with the city’s continued efforts to engage more young people to be active contributors to the city’s policies, plans, and programs, as demonstrated through Houston’s recent designation as the first city in the United States as a candidate for the UNICEF Child Friendly Cities Initiative. For more information about Out 2 Learn, please contact MYR.Out2Learn@houstontx.gov or visit the program’s website. About the Mayor’s Office of Education and Youth Engagement Public education is a human right, the great social equalizer, and a key to a prosperous community. Mayor Sylvester Turner believes that each generation of children should be assured a better life and education. Through collaboration, communication, and coordination, the Mayor’s Office of Education and Youth Engagement strives to ensure this goal for all families in Houston by promoting access to equitable education and opportunities. Contact: Mary Benton Director of Communications Office: 832.393.0830 Mobile: 713.208.6229 Mary.Benton@houstontx.gov

Artists - Jobs in Murals for the City!

Traffic Signal Control Cabinet Mural Program, "Mini Murals," Back in Operation

Houston artist, Caroline Truong, paints a Traffic Signal Control Cabinet (TSCC) in Bonita Gardens. HOUSTON - The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA) is proud to announce that its signature Traffic Signal Control Cabinet Mural Program is back in operation after a one-year hiatus. The program, also known as “TSCC Mural Program,” began in 2015 to curb graffiti in neighborhoods and serve as a gateway for artists to engage in civic art. “I am delighted to see the Traffic Signal Control Cabinet Mural Program back,” says Mayor Sylvester Turner. “I am excited to see the new murals that will be painted across the city. These murals not only delight the senses of our residents, but also add to the unique character of our neighborhoods. They are part of what makes Houston an Art City—a cultural mecca filled with works of art for all to enjoy.” Underground Planet Art Studio, also known as UP Art Studio, has been a longstanding partner since the beginning and has been instrumental in establishing the TSCC Mural Program. They have even coined the term, "Mini Murals" for cabinet murals to which they provide project management. On July 26th, 2023, the Mayor and Council approved a new City contract with UP Art Studio. The Latin American-owned studio, founded by Houston artist couple Elia and Noah Quiles, has a long history of creating murals of all kinds throughout the city, including the Montrose Rainbow Crosswalk, the latest asphalt art project in Gulfton, and the couple's annual Big Walls, Big Dreams Mural festival. They also manage the interactive and informative website, Houstonmuralmap.com. With the approval by City Council, comes the arrival of new murals to neighborhoods across Houston. As part of Mayor Sylvester Turner’s commitment to investing in more public artwork across the city through the Complete Communities Initiative, 20 new mini murals will be created in areas of the city that have been historically disadvantaged and lack public art. Four mini murals are planned in each of the following neighborhoods: Fort Bend Houston, Magnolia/Manchester, Kashmere Gardens, Sunnyside, and Alief/Westwood. To paint a TSCC mural, MOCA requires that Houston-area artists are hired and strongly encourages engagement with community on mural design. Cabinets can be sponsored either by Council District offices, City departments, individuals, communities, businesses, or organizations. Interested parties can now inquire by first identifying a cabinet’s location and submitting it through an inquiry form. For more information on the TSCC Mural program, visit the FAQ for the program, here The finished TSCC Mural located at Bennington St. and Hirsch Rd. About the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs The City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs guides the City’s cultural investments with policies and initiatives that expand access to arts and cultural programs in the community, attract visitors, and leverage private investment. Learn more at www.houstontx.gov/culturalaffairs and follow us on Facebook & Instagram @HoustonMOCA. Contact: Mary Benton Director of Communications Office: 832.393.0830 Mobile: 713.208.6229 Mary.Benton@houstontx.gov Deidrea George Press Secretary Office: 832.393.0800 Mobile: 832.763.6972 deidrea.george@houstontx.gov

Aug 21st GIVE Input on Houston's Emergency Management Plan

City of Houston Office of Emergency Management Media Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: 07/26/2023 View this email in your browser Input Needed for City Emergency and Recovery Plans HOUSTON - The City of Houston Office of Emergency Management is seeking input on the preparedness of Houston residents. The survey, which is available online, is designed to help OEM understand the community's knowledge of the resources available, as well as the sentiment on how prepared they feel at the personal, community, and City levels. The survey comes as OEM is making updates to the City's comprehensive and hazard-specific emergency plans. "For these plans to best reflect Houston, we need to hear from members of the whole community," said Thomas Muñoz, Deputy Director for the Mayor's Office of Homeland Security & Public Safety and Emergency Management Coordinator for Houston OEM. “People are a critical source of knowledge when it comes to experiencing a disaster, and that's what we're hoping to capture with this survey, as it informs the update to our emergency plans." The survey period began on July 25, and will continue through August 25. On August 21, Houston OEM, in partnership with the Gulfton Super Neighborhood, will host a Community Readiness Meeting from 12:15 - 1:30 p.m. at the Houston Community College West Loop Campus, located at 5601 W. Loop S., Houston, TX 77081. During this meeting, OEM aims to identify the needs of the community regarding severe weather and recovery, increase community readiness by sharing resources and tools available, and identify ways to better prepare and equip residents. This meeting is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend. Take the survey: Severe Weather and Recovery Readiness Survey Scan the QR code to take the survey. About: The City of Houston Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is the chief coordinating agency for disaster response in the nation's fourth-largest City; OEM provides emergency response coordination and communication assistance to City agencies, and serves as liaison to regional, state and federal agencies during times of emergency. In addition, OEM engages with the local community to promote emergency preparedness through a variety of initiatives. More information can be found at houstonoem.org. 5320 North Shepherd Drive Houston, Texas 77091 www.houstonoem.org Contact: Brent Taylor Chief Communications Officer brent.taylor@houstontx.gov o: 713.884.4558 m: 713.882.5090

City of Houston unveils BARBARA JORDAN MONUMENT

Houston Public Library Unveils First Barbara Jordan Monument in Houston HOUSTON - Mayor Sylvester Turner, Houston City Council Member Abbie Kamin, and Houston Public Library (HPL) Director Dr. Rhea Brown Lawson, honored guests and more gathered at Houston Public Library (HPL)’s African American History Research Center (AAHRC) at the Gregory School Thursday, July 27, to honor the late Barbara C. Jordan (1936-1996) and unveil Houston’s first monument dedicated to her. “The Meditative Space” celebrates the life and legacy of Houston native Barbara Jordan, who was the first African American woman elected to the United States House of Representatives. The tranquil structure, created by artists Charisse Pearlina Weston and Jamal Cyrus, illustrates Jordan's dedication to public service, racial justice, and the fulfillment of American ideals. The structure was commissioned and acquired through the City of Houston Civic Art Program with assistance from the Houston Arts Alliance (HAA) in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs (MOCA). Rose Mary McGowen, sister of Barbara Jordan, at “The Meditative Space.” Artists Weston and Cyrus created a photographic and text-based collage of materials reflecting Jordan’s life as a public figure and dedication to her constituents using reference materials from archives at both the African American History Research Center and her undergraduate alma mater, Texas Southern University. The imagery is interwoven and combined with geographic motifs derived from her childhood Houston neighborhoods, illustrating her deep ties to family and community. Speaking at the event were HPL Director Dr. Rhea Brown Lawson, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, and City Council Member Abbie Kamin, Barbara Jordan’s sister Rose Mary McGowan, and local Delta Sigma Theta alumnae representative Karen Dourseau. Houston Poet Laureate Aris Kian Brown recited her poem, “How to Build a Bridge.” “We could use her powerful presence right now in our country. She is the epitome of brilliance and resilience, and we could not be prouder that this artwork has been created and delivered by two of Houston's own who are doing an incredible job as ambassadors for our city,” said Mayor Turner. “Let us also be inspired that our work is not yet done. It would be a shame on our watch if the things that she stood for, if the buildings and the institutions and facilities that she used to advance herself to national prominence we allowed to be destroyed on our watch.” “The Meditative Space” is permanently installed outdoors on the grounds of the AAHRC, near the entrance at 1300 Victor St., Houston, TX 77019. The AAHRC is a research center that preserves, promotes, and celebrates the rich history and culture of African Americans in Houston, the surrounding region, and the African Diaspora. It is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Thursdays from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Mondays by appointment. For more information, visit https://houstonlibrary.org/aahrc or call 832-393-1440. ABOUT THE HOUSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY The Houston Public Library (HPL) consists of 44 public service units which include one Central Library, five Regional Libraries, 29 Neighborhood and Express Libraries, three History Research Centers, three TECHLinks, one Satellite location at Children’s Museum Houston, one cafécollege center, and one Mobile Express. Our downtown Houston flagship facility, Central Library, along with the Barbara Bush Literacy Plaza, anchors this constellation of service points. HPL is committed to excellent customer service and equitable access to information and programs in an increasingly digital age. For further information, visit the Houston Public Library at houstonlibrary.org, call 832-393-1313, follow us on Twitter or Facebook @houstonlibrary or on Instagram @houstonpubliclibrary. ### Contact: LaDonna Weems Acting Deputy Assistant Director of Communications Office: 832.393.1476 LaDonna.Weems@houstontx.gov Carmen P. Abrego Community Outreach Liaison for Communications Office: 832.393.2028 Carmen.Abrego@houstontx.gov

Wills - Legal Clinics - Complete Communities News -- Leadership Training, Grants

 

CitizensNet Newsletter: NEIGHBORHOODS | 08-03-2023

SERVING NEIGHBORHOODS BULLETIN

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Complete Communities University Spring 2023 – Call for Applications
• Mayor’s Youth Council 2023-2024 – Call for Applications
• Neighborhoods Matching Grants – Call for Applications
• A Month of Service – Workshops, Will Clinics, Legal Assistance, Community Conversations
• Citizenship Forums – Assistance with Citizenship Applications
• Help Fight Bandit Sign Blight – Volunteers Needed
• Neighborhood Updates -- Messages about City Services|
• Stay Safe from Summer Heat
• Be Prepared for a Hurricane
• Fun Educational Offerings at Houston Libraries

 COMPLETE COMMUNITIES UNIVERSITY
FALL 2023 LEADERSHIP TRAINING

Call for Applications
Deadline – August 18, 2023

Emerging civic leaders are invited to apply for Complete Communities University leadership training. The fall 2023 course runs Sep. 20 to Nov. 8. Classes are on Wednesdays, 6-8:30 p.m., online and in person. The application deadline is Aug. 18, 2023. For more information and to apply, go to www.houstontx.gov/neighborhoods/ccu.html.

MAYOR'S YOUTH COUNCIL 2023-2024



Call for Applications
Deadline – August 18, 2023

Houston high school student in grades 9-12 are invited to apply for membership in the 2023-24 Mayor’s Youth Council (MYC). The term of office runs September 2023 to July 2024. Modeled after the elected City Council, the MYC provides youth the opportunity to learn about city government, share issues of concern to youth with city officials, and gain civic leadership skills through community service activities. Applicants must be residents of the City of Houston. The application deadline is August 18, 2023.

To apply, go to https://forms.gle/s5ChDV51mWh37Jkp7. For more information, go to https://www.houstontx.gov/myc/index.html or call 832-393-0970. 

NEIGHBORHOOD MATCHING GRANTS
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Intent to Apply Deadline
August 31, 2023

Application Deadline
November 1, 2023

The Neighborhood Matching Grant Program offers dollar-for-dollar matching grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 in support of neighborhood beautification and improvement projects. The program is administered as a partnership between the Department of Neighborhoods and City Council member’s offices. Eligible organizations and civic clubs are invited to apply.

Eligible Organizations

• Neighborhood-based organizations and/or civic clubs incorporated as a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) non-profit organization through the State of Texas

• Neighborhood-based organizations that do not have 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) certification but partner with an organization with 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) status as co-applicants

Application Process

The application process requires two steps:

Informational Video & Intent to Apply Form – Deadline August 31, 2023
Watch an informational video online and submit the completed Intent to Apply form indicating this requirement has been met. The form requires the signature of the City Council member for the district in which the proposed project will take place.

Submit completed application packet -- Deadline:  November 1, 2023
For all eligibility requirements and application guidelines, go to Matching Grant Program (houstontx.gov).

A MONTH OF SERVICE

Workshops, Will Clinics, Legal Assistance
& Community Conversations

A Month of Service (AMOS) is a year-round program that offers workshops on legal topics, preparation of wills, civil legal assistance, and Coffee & Conversation forums. The services are provided free or at low cost to eligible residents. AMOS is sponsored by the Department of Neighborhoods in partnership with NRCDC Houston, Houston Volunteer Lawyers, Harris County Appraisal District, Harris Tax Office, TSU Earl Campbell Institute for Legal & Social Policy, Lone Star Legal Aid, and Houston Bar Association.

Workshops on Legal Topics – Know your rights!
The workshops focus on topics such as evictions, inherited property, estate planning, HOA foreclosures, and first-time homebuyers, and voter laws. Most workshops are repeated each month. For a schedule of workshops and to register, go to Get Registered (nrcdc.org) or call 346-339-1088.  

Workshop Series: Don’t Sell It! Build Wealth With It!
Don’t Sell It! Build Wealth With It! is our newest workshop, covering topics on how to build wealth with family inheritance property in lieu of selling. Workshop participants learn about legal protections to keep inheritance property in the family and options such as converting a home to an Air B&B or rental property, becoming a certified landlord with the Houston Housing Authority, and generating income through land use. The next workshop will take place Saturday, August 26, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., at Community Collective for Houston, 12401 S. Post Oak Rd. 77045. To register for the workshop, go to: https://bit.ly/45at90o. For more information, call 832-394-0701 or email mayra.hypolite@houstontx.gov.  

Legal Assistance
The services include legal assistance with Wills/Estate Plans, Sealing of Juvenile Records, and Expunction/Criminal Nondisclosure of Adult Records. To determine eligibility for free or low-cost services, complete a pe-assessment form at https://forms.office.com/g/Ft9d9PhWSF.

Coffee & Conversation
Join the Department of Neighborhoods, City department representatives, and community partners for Coffee & Conversation focusing on community interests and concerns.  The talks are held on the 4th Tuesday of every month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event location changes month to month. The Houston public is invited to participate in person or virtually via Zoom.

The next Coffee & Conversation is scheduled for August 22, 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Magnolia Multi-Service Center, 7037 Capitol St. 77011. 

To register for in-person attendance, click link: https://bit.ly/43UOs4U.
To register for virtual attendance, go to Get Registered (nrcdc.org) or call 346-339-1088.

 

CITIZENSHIP FORUMS
Assistance with Citizenship Applications

The DON Office of New Americans & Immigrant Communities offers monthly Citizenship Forums at different locations throughout Houston, sponsored in partnership with NALEO Educational Fund and BakerRipley. The services are available to persons who meet U.S. citizenship eligibility requirements and are limited to the first 75 persons in line to register. The next forum will be held on August 5, at BakerRipley Harbach Campus, 5225 Northdale St. 77087.  Registration is 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.  

About Citizenship Forums:
Citizenship Forums (houstontx.gov)

Forum Dates & Locations:
citizenship-forums-english-2023.png (1545×2000) (houstontx.gov)

Required Documents:
Citizenship-Forum-Application-English.pdf (houstontx.gov)

HELP FIGHT BANDIT SIGN BLIGHT

DON Director TaKasha Francis testified before the
Texas Senate Committee on Transportation in March
in support of legislation addressing bandit signs.

Report Bandit Signs
Illegally placed signs, called “bandit signs,” litter our roadways, neighborhoods, and public landscapes and clog our drainage systems, costing Houston taxpayers $282,000 annually for inspections and sign removal. Report bandit signs to 311 to help keep our city clean and hold violators accountable.

Volunteers Needed
If you would like to help with bandit signs cleanup efforts, please register at: Department of Neighborhoods Bandit Sign Volunteer Program | Volunteer Houston.

NEIGHBORHOOD UPDATES

Subscribe to Messages about City Services

Subscribe to Neighborhood Updates to receive messages about essential city services and seasonal advisories via phone voicemail or texts in English or Spanish. We especially invite seniors and others who may not have easy access to the internet, persons with disabilities who require communications by voice or text, and residents who prefer information in Spanish. To subscribe to Neighborhood Updates, call 3-1-1. You will have the option of receiving voice messages or texts in English or Spanish.
 

STAY SAFE FROM THE SUMMER HEAT

Heat Safety Precautions

For information on how to stay safe during periods of extremely high temperatures, go to:

City of Houston Office of Emergency Management (houstonoem.org).

 

City Cooling Centers
The City of Houston activates its Public Health Heat Emergency Plan to provide resources to people needing to take refuge from the heat.

While the emergency plan remains activated, people may seek air-conditioning at designated city multi-service centers, libraries, and recreation centers during the specified days and hours of operation.

Even when the emergency plan is not activated, people can go to City multi-service centers, libraries, and recreation centers during regular hours of operation for a break from the heat.

To inquire about a City cooling center location near you, hours of operation, and whether free Metro transportation is available, call 311.

Stay informed
Register for emergency alerts through email, text message, voice call, or mobile app push notification. You can download the Everbridge app free of charge from the Apple or Android app store. Tune in to official sources, including AlertHouston, local news stations, news radio stations 88.7 FM and 740 AM, and official social media channels (Twitter and Facebook).

BE PREPARED FOR A HURRICANE

Make an Emergency Plan. Put together an emergency supply kit. Stay Informed. For tips on how to prepare for an emergency, go to City of Houston Office of Emergency Management (houstonoem.org) and click “Prepare.”

 

Sign up for AlertHouston. Subscribers receive real-time weather alerts and post-storm recovery information via email, text message, voice mail, or mobile app push notification.

Register for Emergency Evacuation if needed. The State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) allows residents to provide information about their specific situation to emergency management officials so they can help residents evacuate safely and provide appropriate life-sustaining assistance. Please note that registration with STEAR does not guarantee the delivery of services by responders and should not replace your own emergency plan. To register for STEAR, call 2-1-1 or visit www.stear.tdem.texas.gov.

FUN EDUCATIONAL OFFERINGS AT HOUSTON LIBRARIES

The Houston Public Library (HPL) invites the community to its wide array of free programs and activities for children, tweens, teenagers, and adults. View the library’s calendar of events at https://calendar.houstonlibrary.org/calendar/events?cid=-1&t=d&d=0000-00-00&cal=-1&inc=0.

One Houston, One Book
HPL’s One Houston, One Book program promotes literacy, diversity, and community conversations by encouraging Houstonians to read and discuss books with a common theme. The program continues through September 28, featuring author talks, block parties, and read ins. For a schedule of presentations and activities, go to:  Events - Reservations - Visit us (houstonlibrary.org).

Join us online!

Facebook  I  Twitter  I  Instagram  I  Website

@neighborhou

CitizensNet | City of Houston

CitizensNet was created to share important city issues of interest to you and your neighbors.

Subscribe to CitizensNet or manage your preferences here:

houstontx.gov/citizensnet/

Thank you for your interest in the City of Houston!