In these challenging times—both in the nonprofit world and outside it—it’s important we stay focused on the basics. By that, I mean our core values and mission, and maintaining what we have. At the same time, we need to be forward-looking. We must look for opportunities to partner with other organizations by sharing our assets and infrastructure.

At Neighborhood Centers, we’ve spent more than a century creating a strong foundation. Our programs are firmly grounded in our mission: to bring resources, education and connection to underserved neighborhoods so that individuals and communities can live up to their full potential.

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ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

• Rep. Al Green Reads Dr. Seuss
• BP Partners to Help Hurricane Victims
• Tax Center Update
• Volunteer Spotlight: Isabel Paez
• Upcoming Events
• Join the Conversations!

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Rep. Al Green Reads Dr. Seuss

Neighborhood Centers was proud to welcome U.S. Representative Al Green to our Cook Road Head Start Center on Monday, April 6. Rep. Green came to see firsthand how the program is making a difference in the lives of low-income children… and their families.

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BP Partners with Neighborhood Centers to Help Hurricane Victims

BP takes its commitment to community seriously – especially in trying times such as those following the unwelcome arrival of Hurricane Ike.  External Affairs Manager Iris Cross recently presented a $50,000 check to Neighborhood Centers President and CEO Angela Blanchard (center) and Vice President of Development Emelda Douglas (right) to help people who still are recovering from the storm.

“We are proud to partner with you to help meet the long-term recovery needs of families directly impacted by Hurricane Ike,” Cross said. “This grant will help families move toward the next stage in the recovery process.”

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Neighborhood Tax Centers: $20 Million in 12 Weeks

During the 2009 filing season, the Neighborhood Tax Centers’ team helped more than 15,000 families claim more than $20 million in tax refunds!  This amazing feat could not have been achieved without the 5,000+ hours of service contributed by more than 400 volunteers.

For late filers, amendments, and other tax issues, the Neighborhood Tax Center at 6440 Hillcroft near the NCI Community Development Credit Union is open year round.  Please call 2-1-1 the Texas/United Way Helpline for details.

Upcoming Events

READY 2 ACT! - Friday, May 8
ARAMARK will host the third annual Ready 2 Act! Youth Day at Harbach-Ripley Neighborhood Center, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Kailee Wong, former Houston Texans linebacker, will kickoff the day-long forum for students from southeast Houston middle and high schools.  Through interest and skill assessments, team-building activities, and breakout sessions with ARAMARK employee volunteers, students will identify their strengths and prepare for higher education and career opportunities.  For more information, call 713-640-7100.

CULTURE FEST - Saturday, May 16
Following the success of the year's first Culture Fest, the next one will be Saturday, May 16, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Southwest Multi-Service Center, 6400 High Star. To volunteer, email Christina Rodriguez, or to participate with a booth or entertainment, email Oriana Garcia. The event features food, activities, entertainment and shopping for the family. To see what you can expect and get a re-cap of the March event, watch our 2 minute video on YouTube.

GATHERING OF HEARTS AND MINDS - Wednesday, May 20
To learn more about Neighborhood Centers Inc., come to our monthly Gathering of Hearts and Minds, scheduled for 11 a.m. at Ripley House, 4410 Navigation, Houston, TX 77011.  Call 713-669-5222 to register.