Fifth Ward Houston

Fifth Ward CRC Newsletter 12-May-08

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:00:00 GMT

Untitled Document Hello [firstname], Welcome to the Fifth Ward CRC newsletter of upcoming events and articles. New to our website are photo albums of our work and pictures of the homes we build. We have added blogs to our website to get your views on affordable housing and what to do about the increase in foreclosures. Visit us at www.fifthwardcrc.org Calendar Events Articles ...

12-May-08 2:00 PM

Everybody's Woman

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Sun, 11 May 2008 18:00:00 GMT

We were literally in the streets, mentioned one very happy playgoer, and I was thrilled. The glitz was out as the Fifth Ward CRC, Pleasant Hill Church, and Working Together As One productions, brought to Houston, Everybody’s Woman, written by Houston’s own playwright Debra L. Atkins. The inspiring play is filled with real talk, real life situations, real deliverance, singing and comical stretches, and was held inside Pleasant Hill Church, but Pannell Street, in front of the church, had been closed off to traffic and served as a pre and post reception area for the play. Now rather than the usual cars passing by, there were the added dimensions of Paparazzi, a red carpet entrance, shopping booths, an outdoor buffet, and a silent auction, all to educate the community, particularly our young adults on HIV and AIDs awareness. Rashanique Williams, the main character in the play, is also the Community Service Specialist at the Fifth Ward CRC. I am excited about the opportunity to...

11-May-08 1:00 PM

You Can Have that Dream Home

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 09 May 2008 19:00:00 GMT

We all have read the news; banks are tightening up their requirements for purchasing a home, but that does not mean that there are not people who want to purchase a home. The Fifth Ward CRC in partnership with Covenant Community Capital may have a way for you to get that home. In spite of what may appear as daunting odds, there is a way. If we told you that the government would match money you put away for down payment would you think we are crazy? Well it’s true, based on qualifications; there may be an opportunity for you to have that special place called home. It’s called an individual Development Account or IDA. What’s an IDA? A matched savings program to help low/moderate income individuals build wealth and purchase a home. How does it work? • Save $2,000 over 6 months to five years • Attend financial education and homebuyer education • Earn up to a $4,000 match for down payment/closing costs. Here are some of the qualifications. Who is eligible? • Resident of the...

9-May-08 2:00 PM

Commercial and Retail Space Available

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 09 May 2008 19:00:00 GMT

The Fifth Ward CRC has several attractive rental properties in the 5th Ward. These high quality rental opportunities offer appealing storefronts off-street parking and are located close to Downtown Houston and Highways I-10 and 59. We offer competitive rental rates and all the amenities you would want. Give us a call at 713 674-0175 extension 12 to arrange for a tour of our rental facilities. 4300 Lyons Avenue Our 4300 Lyons Ave. property is 3,800 square feet of office space (formerly occupied by State Farm Insurance Office) with other current building tenants including: Houston Police Department Store Front and Fifth Ward CRC Corporate Offices in the 8,000 sq. ft. Facility, offered at $1.50 per square foot (Negotiable). Great opportunity to have a professional office space in Fifth Ward near the center of Downtown Houston. Water, electric, trash dumpster and more can be included in rent (at a higher rate of rental) if preferred. This space is located in a beautifully French Quarter...

9-May-08 2:00 PM

Bus Drivers Still Needed

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 16:00:00 GMT

Metro Bus Drivers Still Needed Job Recruiter at Fifth Ward CRC - Call to make an appointment 4300 Lyons Ave. Suite 300, Houston, TX 77020 - (713) 674-0175 Requirements 1. Must pass D.O.T. physical exam. 2. Must be able to obtain a Commercial Driver License (pass 5 test). No training provided on written portion. a. Special Requirements- Permit b. General Knowledge c. Passengers Endorsement d. Air Brakes e. Pre-Trip 3. No DWI or DUI on the Motor Vehicle Report. 4. No felony (under any circumstance) or misdemeanor convictions for illegal drugs, theft, or violence. 5. No more than one (1) moving violation in the past three (3) years. 6. Ability to work with the public. 7. Must have a valid license for a minimum of five (5) consecutive years 8. Must have a high school diploma or GED. 9. Zero tolerance work environment Starting Wages (Effective 01/01/2007) 1. $11.50 per hour during your 6 weeks training. 2. $12.25 per hour during probation (60 working days) after...

25-Mar-08 11:00 AM

Burglary Prevention

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Burglary Prevention for Your Home The Fifth Ward CRC is concerned about our communities being great places to live, work, and play. The Houston Police Department and Precinct 6 have valuable information on how we can make our homes safer. A burglary is reported every 15 seconds in the United States. The U S. Department of Justice defines household burglary as unlawful entry or attempted entry of a residence. This crime usually, but not always, involves theft. Of all the major criminal offenses, residential burglary is the most common. By following these simple steps, you can reduce the possibility that your home will be targeted. Doors and Windows All exterior doors should be solid core or of metal construction. All entry doors should be equipped with a good quality deadbolt lock having a minimum of a one-inch throw A good quality double cylinder deadbolt lock should be used if there is glass within 40 inches of the lock. If using a double cylinder deadbolt lock, make sure a...

25-Mar-08 10:00 AM

Project Grad

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 19:00:00 GMT

The mission of Project GRAD is to ensure a quality public education for all children in economically disadvantaged communities by partnering with local school districts. By providing additional funds, learning and teaching tools, mentors and other support, Project GRAD is able to help school districts increase the number of students who graduate from high school as well as increase the number of those students who attend and graduate from college. Since its inception, Project GRAD Houston has offered over $12 million in scholarships to 3,340+ local inner-city HISD students. Helping Students Realize That Graduation Really Achieves Dreams! College Bound Presentation Series offered Every 1stThursdays at the Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation i-Community 3300 Lyons Avenue, Suite 301 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM Seminars include Education Pays: The Benefits of College Building a Good Candidate for College Historically Black Colleges & Universities First Generation College...

18-Mar-08 2:00 PM

A PROMISING 2008

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:00:00 GMT

A Promising 2008 A New Years Message from Kathy F. Payton, President, and CEO In 2008, Fifth Ward CRC will continue to build upon foundation and principals of comprehensive neighborhood revitalization, stabilization while capitalizing on the opportunities in 2008 for investment and partnership which exist in all areas of programming that support the comprehensive revitalization of 5th Ward. The organizational plan has been updated to reflect more achievable and realistic goals by the organization in light of the recent staffing changes, market shift, and funding. While this is a work in progress, the basis for establishing organizational and community goals are driven by the demands of the community and in response to the stakeholders of the 5th Ward. Development in 5th Ward is a planned event and most projects take years to develop and fully evaluate the success of the programs. This document was originally created in response to the overall master plan for the 5th Ward in 1996...

3-Jan-08 1:00 PM

How To Supplement Your Retirement Without Selling Your Home

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Could you use some extra bucks to pay for medicine, a trip you always wanted, or money to make needed home repairs? Perhaps a reverse mortgage is worth looking into. Recently, the Fifth Ward CRC offered a seminar on reverse mortgage, Jeff Nieznay, a local loan officer, gave the seminar. We wanted to give our newsletter and web readers the facts about this very interesting option for senior citizens who own their own home. What Is A Reverse Mortgage? It’s a special type of loan that enables individuals aged 62 or older to convert some of their home’s equity into tax-free funds. Unlike traditional equity loans, you receive payments instead of making them. Who Is Eligible? Homeowner(s) are eligible, where the youngest is at least 62 years of age and occupy the property as their principal residence. Eligible properties include single-family homes, condominiums and townhomes, or a 2 to 4 unit dwelling. The home must be owned free and clear or have a remaining balance that can be...

14-Dec-07 9:00 AM

Newly formed organization

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 17:00:00 GMT

First and foremost our focus is to provide the foundation and support, which will enable the individual to live successfully in society.

As we all know, making changes in our lives can at times be more difficult than we anticipated. It’s especially hard when you are carrying the burden of a troubled past and face, what is often, an unforgiving society.

At Changin’ Lives it is our hope to give you the support and tools you need to overcome your obstacles and live the kind of life you now desire.

Putting it simply “ Changin Lives exist to make a difference in your life”

We offer services ranging from creating your resume free of charge, to assisting you with job placement, job referrals, job coaching, free voicemail, and referrals to agencies within the community that can assist with free health care, eye exams and eyeglasses.

We also offer a free 12-week Anger Management class.

If you want to start a new life, a better life, we are here to offer our services, to listen and let you know you are not alone.

2-Nov-07 11:00 AM

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Partner’s Sharing the Responsibility of Providing Homeownership Opportunities Well it rained, rained, and rained some more. Perhaps nice for plants, vegetables, and ducks, but not so good for the FWC Builders, the construction arm of the Fifth Ward CRC. Beginning in late June, they have been trying diligently to construct new homes for anxious families in the 5th Ward, Denver Harbor, and Washington/Northside communities. It must be tuff to be excited about finally being approved for the American Dream, but facing days and days of rain that have delayed construction. THE CONCEPT Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation (FWCRC) is embarking on an ambitious redevelopment initiative to encourage economic diversity in Houston’s historic communities in partnership with other agencies. FWCRC’s primary objectives for the development are to 1)satisfy the unmet need for both affordable and market rate housing in traditionally nderserved communities including 5th Ward, 2)bring...

3-Oct-07 11:00 AM

FIFTH WARD CRC’S HOMEBUYER EDUCATION HELPS HOUSTON CONSUMERS AVOID PREDATORY LENDING “TRICKS”

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 18:00:00 GMT

As Halloween approaches, we are reminded of one of the season’s most hallowed traditions – trick-or-treating. But did you know that predatory lenders are playing trick-or-treat with your refinancing, home equity, home repair, or other loan? With foreclosure rates increasing across the nation and many citing predatory lenders as just one of the causes, this Halloween season, Fifth Ward CRC is encouraging Houstonians and surrounding area consumers to be on the lookout for tricks and treats used by predatory lenders – tactics that can wind up costing families their homes through foreclosure. Predatory lending describes the abusive practices used by some lenders to lure borrowers into loans that charge excessive interest rates and fees, and saddle borrowers with such unmanageable financial burdens that they are likely to end up losing their homes, said Kathy Flanagan Payton, President and CEO of the Fifth Ward CRC, a member of the national NeighborWorks® network. Predatory lenders use...

27-Sep-07 1:00 PM

HOOPS AND HOPE

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 17:45:00 GMT

Positive Choices for Our Children Sometimes living in large housing complexes can be a bit impersonal for some of our children. Through the Public Housing Safety Initiative Project (PHSI), children made new friends, competed in a summer basketball league, and they learned more about themselves and their environment. The Hoops and Hope program combined the love of basketball with learning in a fun way for children 7-13 years old. The educational component was designed to educate children on the consequences of participating in criminal behavior, using illegal drugs and gang activity, and gave them better alternatives. It also addressed at-risk behavior and educated them on subjects like financial literacy, and making healthy food choices. The Fifth Ward CRC working with local YMCA’s and other partners put together a summer basketball league for children from the Cuney, Kennedy, and Kelly apartment communities. The learning pieces came from Success by Six, the Mayor’s Anti Gang Task...

27-Sep-07 12:45 PM

IDENITY THEFT – ADVICE THAT MAY SAVE YOU

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 15:00:00 GMT

An Attorney’s Very Helpful Advice – At No Charge According to the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, there is about nine million cases of identity fraud each year. This myriad of illegal activity comes in a variety of ways, some rather innocent looking and other rather treacherous. This could be as benign as Shoulder Surfing where somebody watches you put in numbers over a telephone, or they rather innocently listen to you as you give out numbers for renting a car or making a purchase. Other more active ways include dumpster diving where thieves go through trash and garbage cans to find information on you. In many cases these thieves are so bold as to go through your mail to get pre-approved credit applications and other documents that can lead them in finding and stealing your identity. A corporate attorney concerned with the mounting cases of identity fraud advised the following to the employees in his company. 1. Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put PHOTO ID...

4-Sep-07 10:00 AM

Back to School Fair

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 17:00:00 GMT

Harris County Precinct One is excited to announce that we will host a Back to School Fair in the Fifth Ward Area of Houston. This event will take place August 24, 2007, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at Finnigan Park located at 4900 Providence Street, Houston, TX 77020. The purpose of this fair is to help assist the families of our community by exposing them to various professionals, and local businesses that will provide immunizations, check ups, school supplies, backpacks, uniforms and more. Please accept this letter as a personal request for your participation in this event. We would like to invite your organization to come out and provide school supplies, college information, health or safety information for students and their parents. We firmly believe that your expertise will greatly enhance the overall theme of this event. This is also an excellent opportunity for students in the neighborhood to network with other organizations and create a cohesive community effort of...

9-Aug-07 12:00 PM

How Did We Do?

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 20:00:00 GMT

Fifth Ward CRC Number Of People Served FY 2006 It was a great year for the Fifth Ward CRC. Below are the services that we offered and how many people benefited from them. ACTIVITY DIRECTLY SERVED INDIRECTLY SERVED HOME OWNERSHIP & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 1 Homebuyer Education 460 2 Public Housi8ng Safety Initiative Activities (Homebuyers education, money management classes, and safety programs for public housing residents) 120 450 3 Housing referrals and housing for Hurricane Katrina evaluates 60 ...

8-Aug-07 3:00 PM

How Can I Improve My Credit Score?

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 17:00:00 GMT

Because each borrower’s credit score is a reflection of his or her unique credit profile, it is not possible to quantify in advance exactly how each item in your credit history impacts your credit score. No one can tell you, for example, how much your credit score will be affected if you pay off a delinquent account or cancel a credit card. We do know, however; that there are things you can do to improve your credit profile. Some of these factors include: Making Timely Payments. Making your payments on time is the best way to increase your score. Delinquencies, foreclosures, bankruptcies, and judgments will decrease your score. The Number of Trade Lines. The number of credit cards, lines of credit and other types of credit (‘trade lines”) you have available will affect your score. If you have a lot of trade lines, this may decrease your score because of the risk that you might not be able to pay off all of your accounts, and this may affect your ability to pay off...

8-Aug-07 12:00 PM

GoodSearch

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 14:00:00 GMT

What if the Hester House earned a penny every time you searched the Internet? Well, now we can!

Goodsearch.com is a new search engine that donates half its revenue (about a penny per search) to the charity of your choice. You use it just like any other search engine, and it's powered by Yahoo!, so you're guaranteed great results! Just visit www.goodsearch.com and be sure to enter Julia C. Hester House as the charity you want to support.

If 100 of us use Goodsearch two times a day, the Hester House could earn an additional $730/year! So, tell your friends and make www.GoodSearch.com your home page, so the Hester House can start earning valuable resources.

31-Jul-07 9:00 AM

FreePledge

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 14:00:00 GMT

With the start of school just around the corner I'm sure you all have some online shopping needs to take care of. Before you place your orders let me tell you about an exciting new partnership the Hester House has with Freepledge.com. FreePledge enables people to shop online from prominent retailers (over 180 retailers from Target to Amazon), pay the normal prices, and have a percentage of their purchases donated to nonprofits of their choice at no cost to them. FreePledge hands over to the nonprofits a large portion of retailer commissions that are essentially marketing expenses. You can start donating to the Hester House immediately just by following this link http://jchesterhouse.freepledge.com/. Bookmark this website and be sure to go there first, and use it as a portal to a world of online shopping!

Remember http://jchesterhouse.freepledge.com/ for all your back to school needs!

23-Jul-07 9:00 AM

iGive

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Love to shop online? Donate to the Hester House while you do it. iGive is a unique website that allows you to shop at over 600 name-brand stores and every purchase will yield a contribution of up to 26% to the Hester House!

First, join https://www.iGive.com/jchesterhouse . Remember, donating to the Hester House won't cost you a thing, but we'll miss out on a lot of extra dough if you don't join. So, visit https://www.iGive.com/jchesterhouse now! Membership is free and your privacy is guaranteed.

13-Jul-07 11:00 AM

It’s Not Spring Time, But We Are Sprucing Up Things!

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 18:00:00 GMT

The Fifth Ward Financial Services Center celebrated its grand opening in 1998 with a ribbon cutting celebration, open house, and press release. The open house was a huge success with attendance by Mayor Lee Brown and other local and state elected officials and local residents. “It’s hard to believe but we are rapidly approaching it has been ten-years since the Fifth Ward CRC built the financial services center,” commented John Farrier, Construction Manager for the Fifth Ward CRC. The community, readily recognizes the 7,814 square foot building located on the corner of Waco and Lyons Avenue at 4300 Lyons Avenue,, as it brought excitement and the entry of State Farm Insurance in the historic 5th Ward during a period of insurance “red lining”. In fact, most residents refer to it as the “State Farm” building rather than the Fifth Ward Financial Services Center as evidenced by the monumental sign thanks to the generosity of Houston Endowment. The...

6-Jul-07 1:00 PM

New Photos!

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Be sure to check out the Child Services Page and the updated photo gallery. There are adorable new pictures of the kids' Fourth of July Parade and their recent field trip to Chuck E. Cheese! Enjoy!

6-Jul-07 9:00 AM

Swinging Seniors Gazette!

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 17:30:00 GMT

Click here to download the July edition of the Swinging Seniors Gazette! http://www.jchesterhouse.org/attachments/wysiwyg/2207/SwingingSeniorsJuly.doc

5-Jul-07 12:30 PM

Donation Opportunity -- Senior's Summer Trip!

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Summer is here and the Swining Seniors are more active than ever! In May the seniors began their new, monthly book club; they read books focused on Black History. The Book Club already has growing membership and collects monthly dues of twenty-five cents for refreshments at the meetings. The seniors have also elected a President, Treasurer, and Moderator of the book club. Last month the inaugural class of eight seniors will began computer proficiency classes at CRC.

This summer, under the leadership of Walter Tinson the seniors plan to begin fundraising efforts. The seniors sewed a beautiful quilt and their first project was a Quilt Raffle. Each senior had a book of ten raffle tickets to sell for two dollars a piece. The seniors are also doing a paper drive to help encourage recycling around the Hester House. Seniors also sell pickles and sodas throughout the day! So far the seniors have raised over $800 through their fundraising efforts!

The Seniors fundraising efforts are important to emphasize senior independence, but while the groundwork is being laid they are not yet generating enough revenue to sustain thier enrichment program entirely from their efforts. The Julia C. Hester House is requesting $2,000 dollars to fund thier summer trip to Dallas.

The Seniors will visit Dallas from the 15th to the 17th of September and have a fun-filled itinerary. So far, twenty-four seniors have signed up for the trip. They will leave Saturday morning and take a tour of a famous Dallas fruitcake factory. Sunday morning the seniors will attend a worship service with Biship TJ Jakes officiating and spend the afternoon at the Dallas Galleria. Monday, the seniors will spend time at the Irvington Senior program before returning home.

The seniors are really excited about all the fun activities planned. If you are interested in making a financial contribution for thier trip it would be a great mid-year tax write off opportunity. In thanks for your contribution you will receive written recognition in our newsletter and on our website! For more information or to make a donation contact either Walter Tinson or Julia Lovett. Walter Tinson -- (713) 672-2573 ext. 115 or Julia Lovett -- julia.m.lovett@gmail.com.

5-Jul-07 10:00 AM

Child Development Academy -- Now Enrolling!

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Julia C. Hester House

Child Development Academy

2020 Solo Street * Houston, TX 77020

(713) 672-2573

Now Enrolling!!

Ages: Infants to 12 Years of Age

Hours of Operation: 6:30 am - 6:00 pm

Accelerate your child's future to endless possibilities!

*State Licensed*

(Monitoring Plan 2)

*NCI Accepted*

*Excellent Curriculum*

*Fun After School Program*

*Unique, Dynamic, Professional Staff*

Sign up now for tons of fun, educational activities like: Dance and Cheer, Music, Field Trips, Computer Activities, Karate, Arts and Crafts, and More!!

Click here to download enrollment packet! /attachments/wysiwyg/2207/ENROLLMENTPACKET.doc

29-Jun-07 9:00 AM

Kroger Share Card

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 12:00:00 GMT

The Hester House just received approval as members of Kroger's Share Card Program. To participate you need a Share Card, which you can pick up at the Hester House. Remember to scan your Share Card every time you buy groceries and you'll be donating 1% of your total purchase to the Hester House.

Contact Julia Lovett at julia.m.lovett@gmail.com to have a Share Card sent to you.

28-Jun-07 7:00 AM

Inside the House, Issue 2

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 15:00:00 GMT

E-mail Julia Lovett at julia.m.lovett@gmail.com to request your electronic copy of the Hester House Newsletter, Inside the House (Issue 2).

26-Jun-07 10:00 AM

Community of Respect

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 16:00:00 GMT

This week the Hester House begins efforts to become a Community of Respect. This innovative community-wide anti-bias initiative is based on the Anti-Defamation Leagues (ADLs) sucessful No Place for Hate® school program. More than 100 schools in ADLs Southwest Region have been recognized as No Place for Hate® after completing a series of ADL-approved anti-bias activities, signing a Resolution of Respect and creating a diversity task force. Under the umbrella of the Community of Respect® Collaborative, this free, customizable and results-driven program is now available to the larger community. Houston Mayor Bill White and Sugar Land Mayor David Wallace serve as Honorary Co-Chairs of the Collaborative, and are joined by a diverse group of business, community, religious, government and educational leaders, all of whom are committed to doing their part to ensure that we are, and always will be a Community of Respect®. Our first step is to have everyone in our community sign the...

25-Jun-07 11:00 AM

Giveline

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 16:00:00 GMT

I wanted to fill all of our Friends of the Hester House in on an exciting new opportunity to donate to the Hester House while you shop online. We have just been approved as members of Giveline.com. Giveline is a revolutionary online store created for the community-minded shopper. Every transaction generates a financial contribution between 7 and 33% of product sales to your favorite charity; donation amount varies per product, but you will know the exact amount contributed to the Hester House from every purchase.

Click on this link and you will be directed to the Hester House's Giveline site: http://www.giveline.com/default.asp?v=V041311282

Giveline offers all the selection of other online retailers like Amazon, only with Giveline you buy the same books, cds, movies, and gifts for the same price and a portion of your purchase is donated to the Hester House. Also, Giveline offers free shipping on everything! Just enter the following discount code -- NCD07 at checkout.

Happy shopping!

15-Jun-07 11:00 AM

The New Fifth Ward CRC Online Store

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:00:00 GMT

/attachments/wysiwyg/2183/gIVELINE.doc

11-Jun-07 2:00 PM

Good Neighbor Program

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 14:00:00 GMT

The Hester House is proud to announce our newest partnership with Randalls Supermarket. Randalls sponsors a Good Neighbor program that donates 1% of your total purchases to the Hester House. If you are already using your Remarkable/Reward Card then linking the Hester House's Good Neighbor account number to your Remarkable/Reward Card is easy; and if you're not already using your Remarkable card, sign up now to save money, earn air miles, rent videos, and enter contests all while supporting your favorite organization.

To link the Hester House's Good Neighbor account number to you Remarkable/Reward Card simply fill out an application available at the Courtesy Booth. The Hester House's account number is: 11674.

Participating is easy; so start donating your grocery dollars to the Hester House today!

11-Jun-07 9:00 AM

Swing Seniors Newsletter

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Our Senior Enrichment program is busy as always! They have lots of fun celebrations and activities planned for the month of June. Click here to download the second issue of their Swing Seniors Newsletter. /attachments/wysiwyg/2207/SwingSeniorJune.doc

7-Jun-07 11:00 AM

Rice Epicurean Epoints

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 13:00:00 GMT

Rice Epicurean Markets has launched a point's based program. We ecourage you to enroll at any of the store locations or at www.riceepicurean.com. Enrollment is FREE. For every $1 you spend at Rice Epicurean wit

h your Experience Card, you will earn 1 point (They will have special programs where you can earn bonus points as well) . When you accumulate a minimum of 5,000 points, you can then redeem your points good for a $50 donation payable from Rice Epicurean to the Hester House. Please enroll today and remember the Hester House when you redeem your points.

7-Jun-07 8:00 AM

Summer Programs Begin!

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 13:00:00 GMT

This Monday our Summer Kamp for 5-12 year olds and our Youth Empowerment Summer Academy began. Both programs are off to a big start. The Summer Kamp kids have already been on their first field trip to Miller Outdoor theater and the teenagers have already begun introductions to the 4-H job training programs. Today the Summer Kamp has a fun-filled day ahead of them with organized games and activities on campus and tennis lessons at Memorial Park this afternoon. The Youth Empowerment program will have a special presentation on professional sports in Houston and a visit to the Heritage Society.

Remember, it's not too late to enroll! For enrollment information contact Mattie Stanfield at mstanfield@jchesterhouse.org or Lisa Milburn at lmilburn@jchesterhouse.org

Enjoy these pictures from the first day of Youth Empowerment!

6-Jun-07 8:00 AM

Youth Academy Summer 2007

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 14:00:00 GMT

The Julia C. Hester House's Youth Empowerment Program is proud to present Youth Acadmey for the Summer of 2007!

Who: Teens ages 13-17

What: Fun-filled, educational summer activities!

Including, but not limited to: open mic Fridays, cheer and tumbling tutorials, job

readiness training and placement, leadership camp, sports, money management.

Where: The Julia C. Hester House

When: Monday - Friday: 10 AM - 7 PM

June 4 - August 24

How: Contact Lisa Milburn at 713.672.2573 ext. 121

or lmilburn@jchesterhouse.org

To download the Youth Empowerment Flyer click here: /attachments/wysiwyg/2207/Youthempowermentflyer.doc

4-Jun-07 9:00 AM

KATHY TALKS ABOUT FORECLOSURES

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Wed, 09 May 2007 14:45:00 GMT

Kathy Flanagan Payton is President, and CEO of the Fifth Ward CRC One of the great things about living in Houston is the opportunity to experience a quality of life that includes the American Dream – owning a home. Unlike high real estate markets and communities like the East Coast and California, the American dream of homeownership is alive and well in Houston, but just around the corner for some Houstonians is that ugly word foreclosure. What happens when foreclosure is becoming a reality and how can you avoid it? Foreclosures have grown like a watered weed. There are several reasons. Perhaps the ones that affect most people are buying more house than you can really afford, accepting adjustable rate mortgages (ARM) with fluctuating (and more often increasing) interest payments, and lastly not financially planning for the calamities of life. Sub prime lenders flourish in our black and brown communities by financing loans for families with marginal incomes and/or poor credit...

9-May-07 9:45 AM

Mentoring Support Program Seeks More Teens

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Wed, 09 May 2007 14:15:00 GMT

For the past year, the Fifth Ward CRC has been operating a Teen Mentoring Support Program for at-risk teens at the HP/i-community, located at 3300 Lyons Avenue. The program is on Monday nights from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. The purpose of the program is to provide youth with career alternatives, self-esteem building coaching, and computer literacy. Additionally, we provide a snack for the youth and there is always a fun icebreaker. The career alternatives portion consists of bringing a speaker in each week to make a presentation on a different career. This exposes our youth to careers that they might be interested in but not know much about. It has been received very well. We have had career speakers from the medical industry, insurance industry, banking, computer technology, and accounting just to name a few. We also provide a program of computer literacy. This ranges from basic skills training to more advanced training like creating websites. We believe that in order for our young...

9-May-07 9:15 AM

HUD Certified Homebuyer's Education Course

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 07 May 2007 17:00:00 GMT

Up To $40,000 in Down Payment Assistance For Your New Home* Todays Houston homebuyers face challenges like never before. Even experienced buyers often pay too much money, invest too much time, and experience too much stress when buying a home. The Fifth Ward CRC Homebuyers Education Course, a HUD Certified Housing Counseling Agency, is equipping todays homebuyers with the tools they need to confidently and competently handle the home buying process, while avoiding costly mistakes. The objective of this 8 hour course is to help answer the many questions you have regarding the home buying process, and to determine if you qualify for one of the down payment assistance programs. Course content includes preparing for homeownership, obtaining a mortgage, closing and escrow, and life as a homeowner. The cost of the Homebuyer’s Education Course is $30.00 (non-refundable) per family and both spouses must attend. The general qualifications for the down payment assistance are based on...

7-May-07 12:00 PM

Julia C. Hester House Senior Newsletter

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Fri, 04 May 2007 13:00:00 GMT

MAY IS OPEN HOUSE MONTH AT JCHH

May is JCHH's Senior Enrichment Open House month. Each senior in the program is asked to invite friends, neighbors and church members to spend a day at the Hester House and become a part of the Senior Enrichment Program.

A special open house pancake breakfast will be served on Thursday, May 17th starting at 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. If you are a senior and looking for fellowship with others yours age, the Hester House should be your morning destination. Current seniors recruiting the most new seniors to the program will receive a special gift certificate, so if you get a call give your fellow senior a chance at winning.

WELCOME

You will receive a big Hester House welcome by Seniors, Russell Johnson, Eugene and his lovely bride Dorothy Edwards.

GOT A NAME FOR OUR NEWSLETTER??

The seniors will be considering a eye catching name for this newsletter so if you can come up with a winner, submit it when you come. You can send it to wtinsen@jchhhouston.org if you like or call our number and ask for Walter.

SENIOR GAME DAY

Our next Senior Game Day was a great hit with the seniors the next oneis scheduled for Friday July 20th. Congratulations to Irene Leggett who won first place, Lynn Stephens who came in second and third place was won by Lillie Clark. A real fun event for our great seniors.

4-May-07 8:00 AM

TAKING OUR COMMUNITY BACK

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 18:00:00 GMT

Positive Outcomes For Three Public Housing Communities Through Collaboration There is a new breeze blowing in the Houston public housing communities designed to bring hope and safety. It is the Public Housing Safety Initiative (PSHI), which is coordinated by the US Attorney’s Office, and is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation (CRC) and other local groups work with three public housing communities to reverse the trend, and bring positive outcomes to the lives of families in Cuney Homes, Kelly Village, and Kennedy Place. “We’re excited about how we have been able to contribute to a positive difference for these communities,” commented Cynthia Yell, the project coordinator for the PHSI project. The $600,000 project grant has six major goals that include: 1. Reduce Violent Crime 2. Reduce Illegal Drug Activity (sales and possession) 3. Strengthen the connection between...

24-Apr-07 1:00 PM

VISTA Volunteer Opportunities

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 21:00:00 GMT

Volunteer Opportunities AmeriCorps*VISTA Positions The Houston Hope CT 2.0 Project is growing and we are now recruiting AmeriCorps*VISTA members. Applications are being accepted at https://recruit.cns.gov. Houston Hope Program Listing ID: 07VSWTX013-0. The next round of VISTA placements is July 17, 2007. Interviews will be conducted from April 23 thru May 23, 2007. The Project will VISTA members with Houston Hope in one of two types of positions: · Houston Hope community organizing. · CT 2.0 Initiative increasing capacity of community technology centers. (Full job descriptions available on the AmeriCorps*VISTA website). Minimum qualifications: · At least 18 years old · High school degree or equivalent (GED) · U.S. citizen. Specific qualifications vary by position, however all applicants must have: · Good people/networking/communication skills. · Strong organizational skills. · Ability to work...

23-Apr-07 4:00 PM

Fifth Ward CRC Working With Africa Christian Medical Mission Is A Drop Off Point For Houstonians That Want To Donate Eyeglasses for Needy Children and Families

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Sight Is Precious, Don’t Take It For Granted An eight–year old boy tenderly clutches a prescription in his right hand for his first pair of eyeglasses. He is very excited for he soon will be able to see things that have always been blurry and out of focus. His name is Peter, and he lives in a small village in rural Ghana. His family is quite poor and they cannot afford to pay for the eyeglasses Peter so sorely needs. The good news is a local Houston charity called Africa Christian Medical Missions (ACMM) is doing something about that. Every year for the past seven years, ACMM travels either to the Caribbean or to a country in Africa to perform surgery, a variety of medical procedures, and provide health education. They are local Houston MD’s, nurses, techs, and nom-medical volunteers that pay their own way. They do receive financial assistance and donations for medicines, field surgery equipment, and other medical supplies. They are asking Houstonians to...

9-Apr-07 9:00 AM

Hester House Summer Kamp for 5 to 12 year olds, A safe, unforgetable good time

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 12:00:00 GMT

If you are considering how you will keep your kids busy this summer, learning while having fun with other kids their age, consider the Hester House Summer Kamp. Located at 2020 Solo, the Hester House has provided a safe pleasant enviornment for children since 1943. If you work on the I-10 East corridor between downtown and 610, consider enrolling your children between 5 and 12 years of age and drop them off on the way to work. The Hester House opens at 6:30 AM for your drop-off convenience and open until 6:00 PM to give you plenty of time to pick them up on the way home. The cost is $70.00 per week for each child. The tuition will provide you with the comfort that your
child(ren) are safe, learning and having fun. The Summer Kamp is managed by a childcare professional with a Masters and 35 years of expeience in the field. The Hester House is located on a 5 acre campus with a gym, swimming pool and soccer field. Lots of room for outdoor activities that includes gym sports, archery, book clubs and field trips to enjoy fishing, boating and other age appropriate activities. For more information call Ms. Mattie Stanfield at 713-672-2573, Ext. 117

2-Apr-07 7:00 AM

SCHOOL TEACHER GETS $40,000 FOR NEW HOME

noemail@fifthwardhouston.org — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth and Pamela Sanders have recently become one of America’s and 5th Ward’s newest homeowners thanks to Connie Butler, Housing Counselor at Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation (CRC), Siam Maxie at Blue Chip Mortgage, and Kennisha Freeman from the City of Houston. The City of Houston – Housing and Community Development provides down payment assistance as a result of Mayor White’s Neighbor Next Door Program, which provides down payment and closing cost assistance to educators, EMS workers, fire fighters, and police officers who purchase homes in targeted communities. The process was actually pretty easy, commented Mr. Sanders telling about the process of qualifying for his new home. Fifth Ward CRC built the Sanders a 1400 square foot 3-bedroom, 2-bath, brand new home located on Vernon St. in Houston’s historic Fifth Ward. One might think that perhaps the Sanders did not get all the amenities they wanted. Guess again, their new brick home is a part of Fifth...

15-Mar-07 7:00 AM