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Tawana Couch

Meet Tawana Couch, president of Society for Companion Animals; a Dallas-Fort Worth non profit animal rescue that will mark a decade of service next year. As a flight attendant, Couch saw an opportunity to transport homeless dogs from shelters in Texas and relocate the animals to areas where there is a waiting list of responsible, adoptive owners.

As president of SFCA, Couch also works to educate the public on dog and cat overpopulation, as well as working with lawmakers to strengthen animal cruelty laws.

We wanted to know a bit more about Couch and she was kind enough to answer a few questions about herself, SFCA and the communities it serves throughout Texas.

Dawn Tongish: Can you begin by telling us about Society for Companion Animals?

Tawana Couch: I founded SFCA in 2005. I have spent several decades rescuing dogs and cats, well over a thousand. I saw that there was a need for animals to be transported to places that could find them homes. SFCA rescues dogs mostly all across Texas and flies them to shelters up north that adopts them out. 

DT: What are your duties at Society for Companion Animals?  

TC: I work with shelters across Texas and we set up rescues. I help with a fundraiser flying pets. I am the President for SFCA.

DT: How did you become involved with Society for Companion Animals, and why are you so passionate about the work being done at the organization?   

TC: Being a flight attendant I saw where there were places that could place unwanted dogs from Texas.

DT: Why do you work in the non-profit sector? 

TC: I love dogs and cats. 

DT: It can be tough for any non profit to pay the bills. How do you stay afloat? 

TC: We rely on donations. We do not get funds from adoptions we just get lots of bills. We have to pay for flights for the dogs, medical and boarding cost. This all ads up, so word of mouth is critical. We do have fundraisers and get a few grants. 

DT: What are some of the most memorable, yet difficult moments in your experiences at Society for Companion Animals?  

TC: If I rescue from a shelter I walk the shelter and pick the dogs to rescue. This is a hard thing to do you know some will not make it and as bad as you want to save them all you can't. I do look for the hard cases and rescue them. These dogs are ones that get overlooked. Black dogs, Chi, older dogs, etc I will rescue them. Heartworm positive dogs, mange dogs will rescue these. If I rescue from the street this can be a process of getting a dog to trust you enough to let them get a leash around them and put them in your car. I trap dogs which there are few people that do trapping. I enjoy it it is like waiting to get the catch. Once trapped some dogs tame up others are not social and this means months of fostering sometimes. Feral dogs are interesting I have studied their behavior for years. I spend many hours at 4-5 AM dark catching dogs and observing their behavior. You can sometimes tame a feral dog but can take a long time. I have own 2 feral dogs they are different interesting though they can bond to humans. 

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Margo Nielsen

Meet Margo Nielsen, executive director of Rockwall County non-profit Helping Hands. For 25 years, Nielsen has been at the helm of the social service agency that provides assistance to those suffering a financial or health crisis. She took the post after moving to the community in 1985, with her husband and describes her job as "pure joy".

Those who work with Nielsen admire her hard work and dedication to the mission of helping the less fortunate. She is lovingly described as a "community treasure". Nielsen is preparing to step aside and retire soon, but it is unlikely that anyone will be able to fill such big shoes. She has left an enourmous footprint in the Rockwall community and an even bigger impression on the hearts, of those she has helped through the decades.

We wanted to know more about Nielsen and she was kind enough to answer a few questions about Helping Hands, herself and the community it serves. 

 

Dawn Tongish: Please begin by telling us about Rockwall County Helping Hands.

Margo Nielsen: Helping Hands is the principal social services and healthcare provider for Rockwall County residents facing a financial or health crisis.   The agency has three primary programs: The Centsible Thrift Store provides low cost household goods and clothing for area shoppers; qualified clients receive free merchandise. About 40% of sales from the thrift store provide funding for the emergency assistance program and Health Center. The Assistance and Referral program offers financial aid to families facing a financial crisis.  We like to say we can provide critical assistance during critical times.  Payments for shelter and utility costs are made on behalf of qualified applicants.  Limited funds are allocated for work related and educational expenses.  Transient Assistance is provided for those stranded in Rockwall without other means of getting back home. The Food Pantry delivers an average of 25,000 bags of food each year and distributes hundreds of baskets during Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Health Center of Helping Hands delivers healthcare to uninsured, underinsured and underserved area residents.  Patients with acute care needs and those with chronic medical conditions find a medical home at Helping Hands – a place to receive quality, affordable care with a familiar caregiver over a long period of time.  With a grant from the County Rockwall residents at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level are eligible for sliding-scale fees.  More than 1,700 residents qualified for sliding scale in 2013.  The Health Center has mid-level providers including a physicians assistant and two family nurse practitioners, volunteer physicians, and dentists.  The Center served more than 6,500 unique patients last year. 

DT: You have been involved since the start at Rockwall County Helping Hands, what are your duties?  

MN: Helping Hands was established as an association in Texas in 1976.  Twelve years later the agency was able to hire a director with a venture grant from United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.  I was the third director for the agency and began on August 28, 1989.  There were two other employees that worked in the Thrift Store when I was hired.  I took care of emergency assistance, United Way and other funding opportunities, and the Board of Directors.  Now, Helping Hands has 37 employees and 150 regular volunteers, serves 9,000 individuals a year and has four buildings on two campuses.  The annual budget is more than 2.5 million. The Thrift Store has grown and is projected to net about $500,000 in 2014 for our programs.  I still take care of the Board of Directors, do some fund raising and act as the face of the agency in Rockwall, but other senior staff members manage and direct the Health Center, Emergency Assistance Program and Thrift Store. 

DT: How did you become involved with Rockwall County Helping Hands, and why are you so passionate about the work being done at the organization?

MN: When Roger and I moved to Rockwall in 1985, I had a background in social work with the State of Florida.  For the first four years in Rockwall, I happily played bridge and golf and got acquainted with our new community.  Then in 1989, the director’s position at Helping Hands opened up and a neighbor approached me about applying for the job.  I did – and I’ve been at it since.  If I had sat down 25 years ago and written out a job description for myself, it couldn’t have been better than what I’ve been asked and allowed to do at Helping Hands.  Members of the Board of Directors caught a vision of what our mission should be – no one goes to bed hungry, everyone has a roof overhead (with utilities on) and everyone gets needed medical care.  Fulfilling that mission has been and remains a joyful journey for me. 

DT: Why do you work in the non profit sector? 

MN: I didn’t really have a goal of working in the nonprofit sector; I was just in the right place at the right time.  I loved working for the State of Florida.  I acquired a good skill set for the job at Helping Hands because I had to learn programs like Medicaid and Medicare, Food Stamps and welfare aid.  We had a code of ethics, professional standards and good training.  All of it contributed to my success here.  The biggest difference is that in the nonprofit sector, you have to earn every penny – whether it’s through donor cultivation, special events or related businesses like our Thrift Store.  If you can’t do that then you can’t be successful in helping the people you want to help.

DT: It can be difficult for any non profit to pay the bills. How do you stay afloat? 

MN: Helping Hands has a broad base of community support because it’s been around so long and has a great reputation.  The Thrift Store is the financial engine giving us the all-important cash flow every month.  We also receive contributions from individuals, businesses, civic organizations, churches and grants from funders like the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, Presbyterian Hospital Rockwall, Rockwall County, Rockwall Women’s League and energy aid funding from TXU, FEC and Atmos.  We have several major events that also raise money for our programs. We’ve discovered social media and use it to communicate with our supporters, customers, clients and patients.  Some of our customers receive E-blasts from us every month and come from as far away as Texarkana, Waco and Denton to shop with us.

DT: How can the people of Rockwall County and beyond help you meet your needs for 2014? What are your biggest needs? 

MN: There are several ways to help.  Financial donations are always the number one need.  Donations of clothing and household goods that can be sold or used by our clients are needed all year long.  We need a constant supply of food donations but especially in the summer months when kids are not getting breakfast and lunch at school.  We run with the fewest number of paid staff possible so every staff position could use at least 3 – 5 volunteers as support and back-up.  You can be a sponsor in one of our special events or a participant in a golf tournament or at the Festival of Trees Dinner and Auction or you can volunteer your professional services (write a will, see a patient, cut someone’s hair before a job interview, etc.).  

DT: What is the most memorable moment in your experiences at Rockwall County Helping Hands? 

MN: Gosh, there have been a lot of memorable moments in the past 25 years, but the weeks and months after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita stand out.  Helping Hands served more than 1,000 evacuees from those storms.  Rockwall turned out in force – RISD provided two gymnasiums next to us for food and other donations.  Volunteers showed up to organize the donations, and handle the phones to field questions and find resources.  I think seeing the number of residents that showed up to help out and getting checks in the mail to help shelter, feed and help evacuees is probably the memory that will stick with me.  The evacuees were pretty amazing too – patient and kind in spite of their trauma.

DT: What is the first thing you do when you walk into work each day? 

MN: I try to remember to say a prayer of thanksgiving for this wonderful opportunity I’ve been given to make a difference in my community and in the lives of so many people.

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cile&tank2.jpg Cile Holloway
Meet Cile Holloway, president of the Texas Humane Legislation Network; a statewide non profit organization that by its own mission statement seeks to effect positive change on behalf of animal welfare. During its 38 year run, THLN which is also political by nature, has worked with the Texas legislature to pass dozens of animal protection measures. Holloway has been part of that swift movement to help strengthen the state animal cruelty statute. 
 
We wanted to know more about Holloway and she was kind enough to answer a few questions about herself, THLN and the communities it serves. 
 
Dawn Tongish: Please begin by telling us about Texas Humane Legislation Network. 
 
Cile Holloway: T.H.L.N. Is a statewide non profit organization that works to effectuate change for hundreds of thousands of animals through the passage of animal protection laws.  We are the voice at the state Capitol for untold numbers of animals throughout Texas who suffer horrific abuse and tragic neglect at the hands of callous humans. In our 38 year existence, we’ve worked with the Texas legislature to pass dozens of animal protection measures as well as defeat measures that would have proven harmful to animals such as efforts to weaken the state animal cruelty statute.
 
DT: What are your duties at Texas Humane Legislation Network?  
 
CH: As the President, I have general direction of the affairs of the organization and work closely with our Executive Director and Committee chairs to make sure our efforts are successful.
 
DT: How did you become involved with Texas Humane Legislation Network, and why are you so passionate about the work being done at the organization?  
 
CH: Following a national animal welfare conference in Austin in 1974 , I joined several others who were concerned that Texas state animal laws were weak – and we immediately filed for a non profit status and began our work to effectively educate the masses to the animal cruelty and abuse that existed in Texas.  My mother was part of this original group – and she and my father were both compassionate, strong individuals who raised their three children teaching compassion for all living creatures. 
 
DT: Why do you work in the non-profit sector?
 
CH: It’s difficult work at times, and can be very depressing seeing the animal cruelty and neglect that occurs throughout Texas.  But the reward of being part of successfully getting animal protection laws passed – knowing that our work will help large numbers of suffering animals – makes the difficult, trying times worth it.
 
DT: It can be difficult for any non profit to pay the bills. How do you stay afloat?

CH: Because we’re a political non profit, donations are not tax deductible,  making our fundraising much more difficult than that of a non- political non profit.  Fortunately we have steadfast supporters who recognize the very serious need for animal protection laws– and in addition, we’re working daily to expand our membership and financial base.   

DT: How can the people of North Texas and beyond help you meet your needs for 2014? What are your biggest needs?

CH: Our biggest needs are 1) funds to support our legislative efforts, and 2) people who will work with and educate their legislators to the need for animal protection laws. 
 
DT: What is the most memorable moment in your experiences at Texas Humane Legislation Network?
 
CH: There have been several “memorable moments” during the many legislative sessions at our state Capitol but probably one of the most memorable would be when the Anti-Puppy Mill bill finally passed.  We worked on that bill for four years (two legislative sessions) and the opposition from dog breeders was significant.  This law regulates and licenses large scale breeders– mandating humane standards for those dogs forced to live their entire lives in tiny, filthy wire cages being bred every cycle. Knowing our efforts to pass this bill would finally help the thousands of breeding dogs in these facilities as well as shut down puppy mills in Texas was an amazing sense of accomplishment for many of us.
 
DT: What is the first thing you do when you walk into work each day?  

CH: Read emails, return phone calls, and hope there are no animal cruelty cases reported that day.

 

 

 

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Lisa Ciminelli

Meet Lisa Ciminelli, assistant vice president of CitySquare; a non-profit organization in Dallas seeking to change the trajectory of people's lives by erasing poverty. At CitySquare, Ciminelli directs staff through a long laundry list of services for the homeless and working poor. When she says "we do it all at CitySquare", she means it. 

It was Ciminelli's mother who encouraged her to become a volunteer, when she wanted to "get a real job and make money". Since then she has never wavered. For nearly three decades, Ciminelli has dedicated her energy to lifting others out of hardship and she is still working to help her neighbors.

We wanted to know more about Ciminelli and she was kind enough to answer a few questions about herself, CitySquare and the communities it serves. 

Dawn Tongish: Begin by telling us about CitySquare. 

Lisa Ciminelli: Let me start with our mission statement at CitySquare: To fight the causes and effects of poverty through service, advocacy, and friendship. Our services include those for homeless, working poor and youth aging out of foster care. We have a large food pantry with fresh produce and the opportunity to shop on your own; a large food on the move program, which feeds 20000 children during the summer months; a law department - Legal Action Works (LAW); a work training program - WorkPaths, which provides computer training and construction training, including soft skills and job placement; housing for our homeless and low-income neighbors, as well as our youth aging out of foster care; a large AmeriCorps presence; a community health care clinic; a policy department focusing on social justice; and a thrift store. I think a shorter list would have been what we DO NOT do!

DT: What are your duties at CitySquare?  

LC: I am the Assistant Vice President of Neighbor Support Services. I provide supervision, training and support for our Case Management staff and interns in our housing programs, who work directly with our neighbors on a daily basis.

DT: How did you become involved with CitySquare, and why are you so passionate about the work being done at the organization?  

LC: I have been a Social Worker for 18 years and I have worked in the social service arena for over 26 years. I have had a lot of different experiences over the years. Prior to working at CitySquare, I worked for another non-profit and I would bring my clients to CitySquare for food. I always thought the staff went out of their way to help and I started to feel pulled to the work that was being done here at CitySquare. Like I said earlier, I have worked for a number of other organizations over the years, but CitySquare is different. First of all we call the people who come to access our services neighbors, instead of clients. That was totally new to me. I could establish a good rapport with my clients in the past, but this job feels more like a relationship with a friend. This job has been life lesson, and less like a job-if that makes sense. I have met people who will change my life forever. I am able to think outside of the box - if there were a box here at CitySquare - and see the person instead of the “problem”.  We work with people here at CitySquare, not problems. It is a “job” of engaging people on a daily basis, which means getting to know them. I learn a lot from our neighbors and our staff, who work with the neighbors, every day. Everyone here is passionate about their work-whether it is providing Case Management, or work training, auditing the books, or writing our grants. We are here to make a difference and we take it seriously, without taking ourselves too seriously. After this experience, I cannot imagine working anywhere else.

DT: Why do you work in the non-profit sector? 

LC: I have always worked in the non-profit sector, because I like to know that the work that I do on a day to day basis, makes a difference in individual people’s lives. I am able to meet people where they are. We serve anyone that walks in the door. As a teenager, I wanted to work a “real” job and make “real” money, but instead my mother encouraged me to volunteer. I volunteered two summers in a row at our Children’s county hospital, where I read to children in the burn unit and played games with children that were there for chemotherapy. I believe that experience influenced my decision to work in the non-profit sector.

DT: It can be difficult for any non-profit to pay the bills. How do you stay afloat?

LC: This answer comes from our vice president of programs, John Siburt. "Funding our mission is a continual challenge. We go through feast and famine but we always seem to make it because we have a great team, committed donors, and excellent outcomes. We make it by relying on a diverse variety of funding streams, by partnering where we can, and by being good stewards of the funds we receive.” 

DT: How can the people of Dallas County and beyond help meet your needs for 2014? What are your biggest needs? 

LC: This answer is provided by Shawn Wills our chief development officer. "Obviously funding is crucial to our work.  We are in the process of building a 53,000 square foot facility (the Opportunity Center) that will be a ‘one-stop’ shop for our neighbors to receive the training, programming and services they need in order to move beyond a life of poverty.  All CitySquare programs will move to this building. Literacy Instruction for Texas (LIFT) and the Texas Workforce Commission will also relocate their offices  to this new Center.  Funding is still needed to complete this project. We also need funding for general program support.  Our programs are either at no cost to neighbors or based on a sliding scale.  In order to continue to offer these services we need funding to help cover program expenses. Lastly, but certainly not least, we need community partners who are willing to hire our neighbors.  Companies and businesses that recognize the need for our neighbors to have living-wage jobs, and are willing to provide neighbors with an opportunity."

DT: What is the most memorable moment in your experiences at CitySquare?  

LC: I heard from some of my co-workers that there was a neighbor who slept on the front steps of our pantry every night. He would not come into the pantry during the day. My coworkers would make sure he was clothed and fed. His name is Charles. I met Charles one evening when I was working late. I found Charles on the front steps, huddled up against the cold weather. Initially he was leery of me, but the time we spent together made a difference in his apprehension. Most evenings Charles and I would sit on those steps and get to know each other. Charles had found himself homeless after losing both of his parents years ago. It was devastating for him, and his coping mechanism was drinking on a daily basis. After about a month of visiting with him, Charles told me that a “fun run” passed him one Saturday morning on those front steps. He looked up and saw people living and decided he wanted his life back. We assisted Charles in finding resources for temporary housing and drug treatment. Charles made several attempts to go to treatment, while staying in a shelter. He would come back to the steps in between attempts, and this is where I was changed. I was frustrated with his “attempts”, but one day it just stuck. I now understand the concept of 2nd chances, and 3rd chances. Charles participated in 30 days of treatment and found housing in the community. I visited Charles at the treatment center, and he looked different to me. He was taller. I realized that he used to stoop and now he stood tall. He did not smile very often and now he was lit from within. I would see Charles periodically after that. I might run into him out in the community, or we’d call each other. The last time I heard from Charles, he was on his way to see his daughter for the first time in many years, and he was happy and optimistic. My friendship with Charles, affects how I interact with people on a daily basis and I will not forget our time on the front steps of the pantry.

DT: What is the first thing you do when you walk into work each day? 

LC: I ask GOD to speak through me every day. I might come with the “right” education and experience, but HE/SHE has the ultimate education and experience and I don’t pretend that it is all me making that difference. GOD speaks through me every day.

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Buddy Knight

Meet, Buddy Knight director of Knights' Quest Ministries; a non-profit dedicated to helping parents and youth navigate the threats that dwell on the Internet. Founded in 2001, Knight has conducted safety programs in nine states to highlight dangers, such as online predators and pervasive pornography aimed at children. Knight authored two books and has testified before a Texas legislative panel about Internet safety.    

A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, and former engineer with Texas Instruments; Knight found his passion in ministry and highlighting taboo subjects. With a Masters of Divinity at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, the married father of four grown children says his desire is to protect younsters and adults from the dangers behind the computer screen and promote Christian purity in relationships with his seminars, consultations and books.

We wanted to get to know Knight a little better and he was gracious enough to answer a few questions about Knights' Quest Ministries, himself and the communities it serves. (Please be advised, some material may not be appropriate for younger readers) 

Dawn Tongish: Please begin by telling us about Knights' Quest Ministries.

Buddy Knight: Knights’ Quest Ministries provides programs and resources for parents, youth, and professionals on the topics of Internet safety and sex education.  We believe that parents earnestly desire to protect theirds from modern dangers and activities, but are often left far behind by kids who seem “plugged in” from birth! We help adults catch up by educating and equipping them, and we help youth by educating them to the dangers of 21st Century life.  Since 2001 Knights’ Quest has conducted events in 9 states across the nation. In addition to conducting live events, Knights’ Quest produces a blog entitled BLOGGING THE KNIGHTS’ QUEST (http://blog.knightsquest.org).  The blog currently has over 125 articles. We also produce the SEX, KIDS, & THE INTERNET iRadio show on www.apostleradio.org.  Previous episodes are being made available over the next two months on our web site, www.knightsquest.org, and on iTunes (Season 1 is already uploaded).  This lets me leverage the Internet in order to impact many more families around the world!  We hope to launch a video blog, focusing on “HOW TO” topics, in Summer 2014.

DT: What are your duties at Knights' Quest Ministries?    

BK: I am responsible for technology and scientific research to support the programs and projects, fund-raising, legal compliance, marketing, developing seminars/programs, creating seminar-related workbooks and materials, and anything else that comes up!  I also coordinate the efforts of volunteers who help with fund-raising and marketing.

DT: How did you become involved with Knights' Quest Ministries, and why are you so passionate about the work being done at the organization? 

BK: While completing seminars in 2001 I encountered a number of parents who were having problems with children being involved with Internet pornography, sexting, and other dangerous online behaviors.  The parents didn’t have a clue about the tech culture their children were growing up in, and therefore didn’t know what to even protect their children from. I hate seeing children harmed and exploited.  Between the pornographers and the predators our children are helpless targets. Kids as young as 8-10 are now exposed to explicit sexual material in the home. These children can handle the technologies, but they can’t handle the dangers. At the same time, parents can’t safeguard and safely raise them without knowing, themselves, what the threats are and how to deal with them. My goal...my dream...is to educate and equip parents to effectively safeguard their kids whether they are on the web, playing video games, or watching the myriad of TV offerings that are emerging, both on cable and streaming. 

DT: Why do you work in the non-profit sector? 

BK: Knights’ Quest covers both religious and purely technical subjects.  Being a religious non-profit opens doors that might otherwise be closed.

DT: It can be difficult for any nonprofit to pay the bills. How do you stay afloat? 

BK: First:  PRAYER!!!! Lots of prayer!  I actively work to raise both funds and equipment donations.  Knights’ Quest also raises funds through seminar/program fees, consulting, and the sale of program materials and workbooks. Second, I use my experience in industry and engineering to design the Ministry’s internal operations to be the most efficient and streamlined possible.  Naturally, that includes maximizing the use of technology!

DT: How can the people of Tarrant County and beyond help you meet your needs for 2014? 

BK: First, SPREAD THE WORD!!!!  Tell your churches and schools about what Knights’ Quest offers.  LIKE our Facebook page, follow us on TWITTER, and visit our blog.  And spread the word WIDELY!  We have served across the nation and hope to expand to other nations in the next 24 months! Second: JOIN US and our support program. You can donate online via our web site to provide a onetime gift or to set up monthly donations. We use www.justgive.org to collect and manage our online donations.  We recommend a minimum donation of $50/month.  That small amount will impact the lives tens of thousands of children! At the same time, we have major projects to complete that can use larger gifts!  Donations are tax deductible!!! What are your biggest needs? First always: PRAYER!  I deal with difficult topics that border on the taboo and need prayers for wisdom, creativity, sound health for me and my family, and for boldness! Aside from meeting regular budget there are three major development projects on tap that need funding.

1) TECH UPGRADES:  I have to stay current with technology in order to enable parents stay current with the threats posed by new products and technologies. The systems and devices we tested 2 years ago are not useful or, sometimes, even relevant today.  So, we have a $3,500 hardware requirement to upgrade our test and evaluation programs (Android/Windows/iOS devices, game consoles, media subscriptions, etc.). Once the equipment is purchased it will take approximately $3,000 in labor costs to do the testing and research to identify threats and vulnerabilities, and then to determine adequate defenses and publish the respective parent guides.  I also need to be ready to replace the laptop used to run Knights’ Quest and the projector used when we conduct seminars. 

2) VIDEO BLOG: To produce the first 4-5 episodes will require $1,500 in material and approximately $2,500 for labor.  The first episodes will cover the online pornography threat, how to filter your family network, how to inspect your computer for problems, how to talk to kids about online safety, and more. 

3) THE TECH-SAFE HOME: This is a new, 2-part program that has been in development as both an alternative to the SEX, KIDS, & THE INTERNET seminar.  It is completing its test phase in April 2014.  We need $3,000 to fund the development and initial printing of program materials. 

DT: What is the most memorable moment in your experiences at Knights' Quest Ministries? 

BK: In 13 years it is hard to come up with just one.  A few of the most memorable experiences for me were: 1.A mother called, in tears, afraid because her son (under 14) was apparently in contact w/ a predator and she didn’t know what to do.  A seminar attendee had referred her to me.  I was able to guide her to the resources  or her community that confirmed the threat and set up a sting. 2.A couple had attended a SEX, KIDS, & THE INTERNET seminar and the husband, an IT professional/engineer, felt that he already had things locked down pretty well before he came.  Two days after the event his wife went through the search steps in the seminar or book and discovered that their 14 y.o. son was deeply involved with very disturbing and deviant pornography despite the father’s efforts.  Knights’ Quest helped them connect with an experienced counselor to help repair the damage that had been done to the child and also helped them better secure their network. 3.Speaking before a committee of the Texas Legislature in support of legislation supporting efforts to provide better filtering options for parents.

DT: What is the first thing you do when you walk into work each day? 

BK: Technically I office out of my home.  In reality I am “in my office” wherever I am with my iPhone, iPad, or laptop.  Because of this you could also say that I’m “at work” as soon as I kill the alarm clock as the first thing I do is grab my phone and check my ministry e-mail! Then it’s out of bed and on through my morning routine/quiet time before heading out the door to either my first appointment or to one of my favorite local haunts that offer caffeine and free Wi-Fi!!!

 

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T.D. Smyers

Meet T.D. Smyers, CEO of the North Texas Region of the American Red Cross since 2012. Smyers has a track record of executive leadership, transitioning to the nonprofit sector from a successful career in the US Navy, where he held numerous senior leadership roles in global operations in remote locations, as well as Navy Headquarters at the Pentagon. Before that, Smyers was named outstanding graduate from advanced navigator training at the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis and received the Legion of Merit for this leadership of Naval Air Station (NAS) Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base (JRB) as the installation's eight Commanding Officer.

Smyers brings all of those field-proven management skills to the Red Cross, where he is dedicated to leading teams of staff members and volunteers through local and national disaster assistance.

We wanted to get to know Smyers a bit better and he was kind enough to answer a few questions about the Red Cross, himself and the people he serves.  

 

Dawn Tongish: Please begin by telling us about the American Red Cross-North Texas Region?     

T.D. Smyers: The North Texas region is the largest region within the American Red Cross.  It covers 9600 square miles, serves 9.3 mil people and spans across 111 counties.  We handle more disasters than any other region in the United States.  This tends to surprise a lot of people.  We deal with all shapes and sizes of disasters:  tornadoes, wildfires, hailstorms, floods and house fires to name a few!  We have local staff and over 5000 volunteers within our region.  We couldn’t service this broad of an area or mission without their time, skillset and heart for the mission.  

DT: What are your duties at the American Red Cross?    

T.D.S: I serve as the Chief Executive Officer for the North Texas Region. I oversee all operations from fundraising to media engagement to service delivery (which includes disaster response, International Services and Service to the Armed Forces) and I partner with the North Texas volunteer leaders that serve on our boards region wide.  I also coordinate work with our blood services and health and safety business units. 

DT: How did you become involved with the American Red Cross, and why are you so passionate about the work being done at the organization?   

T.D.S: While I was leading the regions’ military installation Naval Air Station Ft Worth JRV, I built a relationship with the Chisholm Trail (Fort Worth) Chapter of the Red Cross which led to me coming on board as CEO in 2012.  As a career naval officer, many times I experienced the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross as they assisted sailors though their emergency messaging system.  Several tragedies occurred back home and if it weren’t for the American Red Cross, many soldiers wouldn’t have been able to make it back to their families.

DT: Why do you work in the non-profit sector? 

T.D.S: I am privileged to lead my life in a career of service, beginning in the Navy. When I decided to transition and permanently route myself in North Texas, I wanted a career path where I could continue to give back and spend time in civic involvement within a leadership role.  This opportunity within the Red Cross was perfect for me to “scratch that itch” as a vocation.

DT: It can be difficult for any non-profit to pay the bills. How do you stay afloat? 

T.D.S: The Red Cross mission is entirely funded through the generosity of donors.  Our mission is dependent on our donors (both at the individual and corporate level) and their resources, time and effort contributed on behalf of our mission.  We spend a great deal of effort telling our story so everyone understands how we can resource our mission which is ongoing- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

DT: How can the people of Dallas County and beyond help you meet your needs for 2014? What are your biggest needs?

T.D.S: Our biggest needs are donations of both money and time.  More than 90% of our work is done by volunteers.  One thing we ask of folks is that they train in advance.  Volunteers are most valuable when they’re able to knowledgeably respond to client needs, manage work equipment and efficiently setup and staff our shelters.  We offer training for disaster responders through our Volunteer Services team.  The Red Cross is very visible when disasters strike across the world but a lot of people don’t understand that, for example- in the Texas Region alone on average, we respond to 6 disasters every day.  We have volunteers assisting clients around the clock in response to whatever the need is in the community at that time.

DT: What is the most memorable moment in your experiences at the American Red Cross? 

T.D.S: My first disaster after taking over as CEO of the North Texas region was the 17 tornadoes that hit the eastern part of the metroplex in 2012.  We setup a shelter in Lancaster and it was there, working with the amazing volunteers that I saw how the work of the Red Cross was done by people with very noble hearts and capable hands.  This immediately resonated with me.

DT: What is the first thing you do when you walk into work each day? 

T.D.S: I like to grab a cup of coffee and walk around the office to catch up with some of the amazing staff that continues to resource our mission daily.  We have incredible people on our team and we’re privileged to work alongside them.  Our motto is “Sleeves up, hearts open, all in” and our entire team carries this message with them wherever we go.

 

 

 

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Francis "Buck" Kern

Meet Francis "Buck" Kern, executive director of the Tarrant County based, non-profit Snowball Express, benefiting military families who have suffered the painful loss of a loved one.

Kern transitioned from the corporate world and now finds joy in devoting his life to healing broken hearts, helping military families find comfort and peace all packed into a special celebration flight with American Airlines.

We wanted to get to know Kern a bit better and he was nice enough to answer a few questions about himself, Snowball Express and the military families he lives to serve. 

 

Dawn Tongish: Please begin by telling us about Snowball Express? 

Francis "Buck" Kern: Snowball Express is a north Texas based non-profit 501(c) 3. We were formed in 2006 by a group of southern California residents who heard about some military families that had a loss and they wanted to help. The original idea for the gathering came from a last letter written by a soldier in Iraq to his wife. In the letter, he asked his wife to keep their promise to their kids and take them to Disneyland. The original idea was to have the families come to southern CA. for a long weekend of fun and excitement at Disney and other locations, as well as a chance to heal and be with other families that have had a loss. From that one long weekend we have grown substantially from several hundred family members that first year to last year when Snowball Express Eight had more than 1700 children and surviving spouses at our north Texas event. We are grateful that we have a tremendously supportive presenting sponsor in American Airlines, who each year provides at least 9 inbound and outbound charter flights, plus fuel and the volunteer flight crews that make it happen.

DT: What are your duties at Snowball Express?  

FBK: As the Executive Director, and because I am the one and only “employee” of the organization, my duties really encompass everything.  Overseeing all aspects of the organization falls within my responsibilities. Snowball Express is unique in that we have a working Board of Directors made up entirely of volunteers. Each board member has an area of responsibility and expertise. For instance some are experts at fundraising, finance, logistics, transportation, communication/PR, etc, and they all have deep contacts and connections in their area of expertise. We work together to set an overall strategy and then carry out that strategy. All of our board members are volunteers and contribute a significant amount of time to the effort. I work closely with the board and consult with individual members on a daily basis, and am very privileged to have such great support from this team. I also have the privilege to be able to communicate with and work closely with our families on a daily basis.

DT: How did you become involved with Snowball Express, and why are you so passionate about the work being done there? 

FBK: I was with Neiman Marcus as Director of Operations, and I was asked to become a member of the board of directors, and then asked to chair the board. I volunteered for several years working to build the organization and serve our families. From the moment I met some of the families and the children, and heard directly from them what this organization means to them, I immediately understood the importance of our mission and knew that it was important in the lives of these special families. Once you get to meet these wonderful families and the children you realize the incredible sacrifice they have made for our nation, and you realize how fortunate we are as a nation to have courageous men and women who are willing to give up their lives for our freedom, it was an easy decision to take this position full time when the board and I began talking. We owe these families and the deceased service member a huge debt of gratitude and we believe that our efforts in December, and all year long are truly helping them recover from their incredible loss.

DT: Why do you work in the non-profit sector?

FBK: I had never really considered working in the non profit sector.  After working with the children and families for several years, and seeing first hand the very positive and life changing effect that Snowball Express has on these children and families I came to realize that I really wanted to do more. I loved my business career with Neiman Marcus, but decided that there was so much more that could be done to support the children of our fallen heroes. It is so humbling and gratifying to be able to serve these families who have paid such a high price. Their hero made the ultimate sacrifice so that I / we can live free in this great country. They paid a very high price for my freedom. Nothing that I or any of us do will come close to giving what they have given, but I would like the purpose of my life to be something that supports them in a some small but meaningful way. I and our board have the pleasure to work with some truly fabulous people who we have become close friends with. We keep in touch with many of the families throughout the year. Now that Snowball Express is in our ninth year, we have watched many of the children grow up and become wonderful young adults. It is very gratifying to see the kids grow, see the progression of the healing process, and although the pain never goes away, it is wonderful to see many of these children learn how to cope with the pain and watch them take on a different role. These young adults become mentors and reach out to the kids who have experienced their loss very recently. They become the healers. Who better to help a child who lost his/her parent in the military than another older child who has experienced the loss and pain first hand.

DT: It can be difficult for any non-profit to pay the bills. How do you stay afloat?

FBK: Again, We are very fortunate to have the help of our Presenting Sponsor, and other sponsors who support us so well. Our in-kind support is very substantial indeed. American airlines donates the airplanes that enable us to bring these families together, but their pilots, flight attendants, airport personnel around the country donate their time to support these children all year long. Other organizations like Neiman Marcus, donate a very special gift store that enables each child to select a gift and make a personalized card to give to their surviving parent for Christmas.  The Sheraton Hotel, and the Hyatt Hotel have donated rooms and convention space to give these families an experience they will remember forever. Yum Brands, Pizza Hut, KFC, Pedrinos Foods, and other food sponsors donate food and meals. The Patriot Guard Riders, Hero Miles, Dallas Fan Fares, Grey Hound Buses, Texas Music Project, ,Martin Plowman Racing,  Organizations like the Air Power foundation, the 31 heroes Project, The Gary Sinise Foundation, Carry The Load, Green Beans Coffee, the USO, the 1967 Foundation, Albertson’s, E&J Gallo Winery, Terry Fator, Bell Helicopter, Headington Realty and Capital, the NCOA, Overseas Service Corporation, the YUM Brands Foundation, The Huchton Family Foundation and our newest long term partner, Highland Capital Management donate hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. Individuals and groups such as the Kiwanis clubs, Rotary, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Ladies Auxiliary Posts coordinate group fundraising efforts to help support our kids. Snowball Express is very careful with its money and more than 94% of the money we raise in cash, and in kind donations is used to support our efforts.  We are also fortunate to have some great high profile people who back what we do. Actor Gary Sinise continues to be a huge supporter and he assists us in so many ways, whether it’s raising awareness about Snowball or bringing his “Lt. Dan Band” to Snowball to perform a concert for the children. Gary has also done dozens of fundraising events and videos for us during the seven plus years he’s been associated with us. Now Gary serves on our Advisory Board. Tony Orlando continues to be another person who really is behind the effort and he is a valued member of the team, talking up Snowball Express at his concerts and when he performs. We are grateful that one of the most beloved entertainers of all time, forty plus years, is with us 100%. And we must also recognize Terry Fator, who has been on the Snowball team now for five years. Terry has come to Snowball, performed for the families and he also donates a portion of his ticket sales from the Mirage in Las Vegas to help us stay on a stable financial base. The real reason for our success and overall gratitude goes to our volunteer board of directors and the hundreds of volunteers who give freely of their time and talent. We have so many wonderful people who give so much of themselves year after year to help make this event what it is, and we can’t do it without their help.

DT: How can the people of Tarrant County and beyond help meet your needs for 2014? What are your biggest needs?

FBK: We have a big announcement concerning Tarrant County. First, we recently moved our offices to Grapevine, and we’re happy to be here. Second, we have decided in 2014 to hold the event in Tarrant County and Fort Worth.  We have been working with Fort Worth’s Mayor Betsy Price, Mayor Pro-tem W.B. ‘Zim’ Zimmerman and other city officials. We have had several successful days in Fort Worth in the past, at the Stockyards, Billy Bobs, Sundance Square, and the Fort Worth Zoo and we decided this year to bring the entire event to Fort Worth. This decision was made specifically because of the tremendous show of support our families received from the citizens of Fort Worth. The Walk of gratitude in Fort Worth and the turn out of the public was a demonstration that really showed these families that they are not forgotten and the sacrifice of their hero is appreciated and honored. Now that we have made the commitment to the community to hold SBE 9 in Fort Worth we want their help, financially, signing up as volunteers and joining this great team. We know that Fort Worth and Tarrant County are great when it comes to support for the military and this is a real opportunity to show the nation and the world what we all know in Texas, that this community is a huge fan of the men and women who wear the nation’s military uniforms, and of course the families. 

DT: What is the most memorable moment in your experiences at Snowball Express? 

FBK: There are so many.  Every year when the families leave their home cities and fly to DFW Airport they fly on the charters, and it’s always such a rush of excitement and energy when they come out of the jet way at terminal C. We’ve tried very hard to make this one of the highlights of the event, with hundreds of people applauding, a marching band, lots of media coverage, activities for the kids and a lot of excitement. It's always a highlight. To give a few examples of memorable and meaningful experiences, let me first explain about a young boy who lost his dad only a few months ago. I saw him when he arrived on the first day. He looked very sad, he never smiled, and he avoided the other kids. I watched him over several days as he started to interact with the other kids, he began to play with then, to smile, to laugh, and to be a happy kid again. I remember seeing his mother cry and hearing her tell me how happy it made her to see him so happy. She said that it was the first time in eight months since her husband was killed that she had seen him smile and laugh.  A second memory is when one of our widows after returning home from the event told me about how wonderful her first time at Snowball Express was. She said that it had been over a year since her husband was killed and her son had “shut down” and he had never talked with her about his dad’s death, and never spoke about his dad at all. She explained that on one evening during our event she checked in on her son while he was in the teen’s lounge. She snuck up on him without him realizing that she was nearby. She explained that he was talking with another teenage boy and she overheard them discussing their dads. She said that it was the first time she had ever heard him open up. She then told me that one night after they got back home, her son asked her to sit down and talk. She said that he opened up to her and wanted to discuss his dad. This mom said that had her son not attended Snowball Express, she did not think that he ever would have talked about his dad, and opened up to her about his feelings. These two stories are examples of what this event is really about and why we believe so strongly that what we are doing is very important.  

DT: What is the first thing you do when you walk into work each day? 

FBK: I remember. It might sound a bit cliche but I think about the sacrifice made by these families and how important our mission is.  It helps to keep everything in perspective. I start each day remembering how much these families have suffered and sacrificed, remembering the ultimate sacrifice their dad or mom made so that we can be free to live the great lives we live.  Remembering the families and the sacrifice is the best way stay focused on our mission, and honor these gold star families. It helps me not to take anything for granted and you can never really have a bad day when you remember what we really have to be thankful for. 

 

 

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Mayor John Terrell

 

Meet John Terrell, Mayor of Southlake since 2009. Serving on the city council for a decade, including a stint as Mayor Pro Tem and a resident of Southlake for 12 years, Terrell is passionate about helping the city achieve its full economic and development potential.  

The mayor resides in Southlake with his wife, Joanne and his two school age children. On the professional side, Terrell is Vice President of Commercial Development for the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, responsible for the strategic direction in developing more than 6,000 acres. His duties include management of two hotels and millions of square feet of office and industurial facilites. 

We wanted to get to know mayor Terrell a bit better and he was gracious enough to answer a few questions for us: 

Dawn Tongish: What is it that, in your opinion, makes Southlake stand out among surrounding communities?

Mayor Terrell: There is a real sense of community in Southlake.  When I stand in front of Town Hall and see the families enjoying themselves in the park, when I walk down the streets during any one of our special events in Town Square and witness the “small town” feel, it warms my heart.  I feel a part of something special.  I think many people feel the same way and that makes Southlake special.

DT: Southlake is a growing, lively community. There is much to do and thousands of people to help make decisions for. What do you do to wind down?

JT: To wind down, I enjoy going to our cabin, fly fishing, working in the yard (although not as often as I would like), shooting with my son and enjoying my daughter’s volleyball game.  Generally spending time with family and friends.

DT: What are your top three goals for the City in 2014? 

 

JT: Continue to improve the City’s financial condition, focus on economic development of Class A office projects along Hwy 114, finalize the 2030 Comprehensive Plan providing for a sound and sustainable long-term vision for Southlake.

DT: Who do you ask for advice?

JT: I ask everyone for advice… past and current council members, business leaders, friends, my pastor, my wife (especially my wife).  I have been blessed throughout my life to be surrounded by many experienced thought leaders and wise counselors.  I have been made better by knowing them and I believe I have made better decisions by seeking their counsel, views and opinions.

DT: What are your top three goals for the City in 2014? 

JT: Continue to improve the City’s financial condition, focus on economic development of Class A office projects along Hwy 114, finalize the 2030 Comprehensive Plan providing for a sound and sustainable long-term vision for Southlake

DT: What are you most proud of?

JT: I don’t like to use the word “proud”, that might infer that I believed some accomplishment came as a result of my efforts alone.  Many people have built the success of Southlake.  I am humbled that the citizens elected me to this leadership position and when my time in office has concluded, I will look back and feel a sense of gratification that I was allowed to play a part in the success of our City.

DT: What is the best thing a Southlake resident can do to help make the city better overall?

JT: Participate, vote, give back to the community.

DT: When you have a few minutes to drive around your city, where do you like to go?

JT: Town Square is the destination choice for my family for entertainment, shopping and having a bite to eat or a sit-down meal.  It is a great place to see everyone you know having a good time.

DT: What is your favorite movie?

JT: I enjoy many types of movies including action, suspense, comedies and even Disney.  It is impossible to pin down any one favorite movie, but The Lord of the Ring series, Bourne Identity, Sixth Sense and It's a Wonderful Life (the original) would rank among the top.

DT: How do you like to spend a lazy, Sunday afternoon?

JT: The perfect relaxing weekend would be spent with my family at our Broken Bow cabin in front of a fire having hot chocolate and telling stories.

DT: What's the last book you read?

JT: I often read a couple of books at once.  On the educational/personal improvement/ business side I just finished re-reading “Speed of Trust” by Steven Covey.  For entertainment, I just finished “Double Cross” by James Patterson and “Innocence” by Dean Koontz.   

DT: Now for the tough questions. Where’s your favorite place to grab a burger in town? Favorite place to shop?

JT: That's a really hard question.  We have quite a few excellent Burger places in Town, but I probably frequent BottleCap Alley more than most.  As for shopping, it depends on what we need, but we almost never have a reason to leave Southlake to find what we are looking for.

DT: What three words would you use to describe your bubble (Southlake)?

JT: Family, Community, Home

DT: What is the top goal on your personal bucket list for 2014?

JT: From a city perspective, seeing the Community Recreation Center come to fruition.  After spending so many years on this project, it will be gratifying to see Phase 1 begin construction this year and Phase 2 taken to the voters in 2015.

From a family perspective, spending as much time as possible creating many lasting memories with my kids before they leave for college. 

DT: What is the best thing a Southlake resident can do to improve the quality of the city? 

JT: Participate, vote, give back to the community.

DT: What do you hope will be the legacy of your time in office?

JT: I haven’t given much thought to a “legacy”.  However, I was taught by my parents that you should always leave a place in better condition than it was when you arrived…I hope that will be said about Southlake when I am no longer Mayor.  The city is now financially stronger than ever, we have improved our parks and sidewalks, additional public safety facilities have been built, major infrastructure improvements have been made, high quality development has occurred and we have begun the first phase of a Community Recreation Center, which has been one of my personal initiatives since being elected to office in 2004.

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Jim Falk/World Affairs Council

Meet Jim Falk, president and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth; a non-partisan organization focused on raising the citizens' Global I.Q of national and international matters and boosting the area's trade and economic potential. 

Appointed Honorary Consul of Morocco for Texas in 2013, Falk has led World Affairs Council trips overseas and hosted political dignatories like former U.S Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and rock stars, like Bono right here in North Texas.

We wanted to get to know Falk a little better and he was kind enough to answer a few questions about himself, the World Affairs Council and the communities it is educating. 

 

Dawn Tongish: Can you tell us about the World Affairs Council?

Jim Falk: The World Affairs Council is a dynamic organization that brings international awareness and cross-cultural understanding to our community. We work to enhance our region’s global stature and to prepare North Texans to thrive in a marketplace that is more global every day. We present distinguished international figures and experts year-round for in-depth interpretations of global events, and our events are open not only to our members but almost all are open to the public. Just within the next few weeks alone, we have programs that you can attend on China, fracking, Brazil, Cuba, Iran, the national debt, and drones vs. boots. We have a film festival and international standup comedian Maz Jobrani coming up, too. We handle international dignitaries and delegations, and for the last ten years we have taken our robust education program directly into 92 of the region’s school districts.

DT: What are your duties at the World Affairs Council?  

JF: As president and CEO, my position includes management of our wonderful staff, program development and fund raising, which as a not for profit is a critical component of the job.  I also devote considerable time meeting with international visitors and dignitaries who may be here to explore business opportunities.

DT: How did you become involved with the World Affairs Council, and why are you so passionate about the work being done at the organization?   

JF: Due to my father’s work, much of my childhood was spent overseas, mostly in Tunisia where I attended French schools.  Later I did graduate work in Middle Eastern studies and have always enjoyed bringing people together.  Through people-to-people diplomacy, lasting friendships are established leading, I hope, to a more peaceful and tolerant world.  Children today do live in a globalized society and we have a responsibility to give them every advantage and opportunity to learn about it so that they can have a better future.

DT: Why do you work in the non profit sector?

JF: I love the variety of work, the privilege of working with others on our staff and board who share a passion for the Council’s mission.  We are making a positive difference on our community and encourage our members to think about critical issues.  Our members share our curiosity and commitment, and that makes the job exciting and important.

DT: It can be difficult for any non profit to pay the bills. How do you stay afloat? 

JF: Our membership is our foundation.  Membership in the Council is relatively inexpensive, $75 for a basic membership.  Among our 4,300 members, hundreds support us at higher levels for the added benefits and because they want to make a greater financial contribution.  Each year, we also hold two fundraisers, a luncheon honoring our International Educator of the Year, and a dinner in the fall, which recognizes an individual who has made a major impact on DFW’s international position.  In 2014, we are honoring Exxon Mobil Corporation’s Chairman & CEO Rex W. Tillerson.  We also receive grants from corporations and foundations. 

DT: How can the people of Dallas County and beyond help you meet your needs for 2014? What are your biggest needs? 

JF: Become a member! Together we can help each other. Our population and economy are becoming increasingly international and the DFW region is on a track to become one of – if not the most – important global city in this hemisphere.   The World Affairs Council provides opportunities and information across a very wide spectrum that will enhance your knowledge, understanding, and give you an edge – in your company or in your classroom. If you become an active member, the Council is strengthened while at the same time you are connecting with the world in unique ways like hosting international visitors in your home or hearing the story behind the story from a history-maker or diplomat. If you’re not a member, you are going to miss knowing about all of the great events we have going on.

DT: What is the most memorable moment in your experiences at the World Affairs Council? 

JF: Personally, it was when I had the privilege of interviewing two U.S. Secretaries of State, James A. Baker, III and Condoleezza Rice in front of an audience of over 1,000.  A close second was when the Council presented the singer/activist Bono at the Dallas Music Hall.  His remarks on Africa still resonate to those who were there that day.

DT: What is the first thing you do when you walk into work each day? 

JF: It is never the same: sometimes I reply to email, meet with staff but just as often I will be meeting with a visiting ambassador or speaker.  There is no routine to this job and that is why I love it!

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Melissa Steen/KBC

Meet Melissa Steen, executive director of Keller Business Connections, an organization working to merge business and the community. With "hometown" roots in Keller, Steen is dedicated to seeing the community thrive and grow. Her motto mirrors that of the Rotarian, "Service Before Self".

 

We wanted to get to know Steen a bit better and she was kind enough to answer a few questions about herself, Keller Business Connections and the communities it serves. 

Dawn Tongish: Can you begin by telling us about the Keller Business Connections?

Melissa Steen: Keller Business Connections exists to unite local commerce and the community.  Our core focus is to create (1) better business results for our members and (2) positive mutually beneficial experiences for the City of Keller.  We currently have over 900 members and we have done that in less than 12 months.  KBC is more than a membership organization, it is a community in its true definition.  There is an energy within KBC that isn’t tangible, but is solely there based on a demand of something different for business owners in the city.  In KBC we focus on relationships…people do business with those they know and trust.  We feel like if we put the right people in the right relationships, compiled with educational resources to apply to their own lives…the community and commerce will move forward.

DT: How did you become involved with the Keller Business Connections, and why are you so passionate about the work being done at the organization?   

MS: I had previously worked in the chamber of commerce world.  It had challenges and so much open room for change.  100 years ago you bought the feed store and you did what?  You walked into the chamber of commerce and joined, you had a ribbon cutting and hung a plaque on your wall stating you are part of the club.  The world doesn’t operate that way anymore.  Commerce demands satisfaction now, technology has forced us to the expectation of having immediate value.  When you show a member, this is the value behind the relationship with KBC and they can see it and feel it…it’s a win/win. 

Personally I am passionate for Keller as it is where my family is from.  My first memories of this town are profound as I was disconnected from my parents whom were from here.  Bear Creek Farms was my parents place, it was one of few houses that were on Rt.1…now known as Keller Hicks Road.  My sister and I would walk to Food Fare where our mother worked and life was just simple. I to this day can listen to my dad for hours speak of the stories of the past, how life was when he graduated from Keller High at the rock gym and coffee mornings at JR’s Café.  It was just a way of life.  I don’t think that we can keep Keller from growing, but we can instill that “hometown” feel and we can do that thru relationships.  

DT: Why do you work in the non profit sector? 

MS: I believe in service work. I am a Rotarian, and our simple guiding value. Service Before Self.  I was a Rotarian long before I actually joined…I live my life by that value.  We attach a charitable organization to every one of our events.  KBC is at the heart of the community, connecting our members to one another and to opportunities for commerce.  A core value is also supporting our non-profit organizations/members, which provide vital services to area residents while allowing businesses to embrace their mission.  There are many ways to engage with our local community both through KBC and directly through our members.

DT: It can be difficult for any non profit to pay the bills. How do you stay afloat? 

MS: You ask for help.  It is the companies who sponsor all of our events that keep KBC going.  It is the members whom pledge of a commitment in KBC financially that are equally investing in the City of Keller.

DT: How can the people of Keller and beyond help you meet your needs for 2014? What are your biggest needs? 

MS: Participation.  Everything we provide in KBC is to offer resources and to celebrate the successes within our city.  If we have a Grand Opening Celebration of a company that chose Keller to do their business, join us celebrate the decision and show your support.  This year is our first year and throwing a festival to truly celebrate Keller.  The community can show their support by attending, volunteering and participating in all of the events of the two day weekend April 18th and 19th.  

DT: What was the memorial moment for you so far at Keller Business Connections?

MS: For me it was the 1 year mark.  It flew by and to look back at pictures of everything we have accomplished it was truly an AHA Moment. 

DT: What is the first thing you do when you walk into work each day? 

MS: I make coffee…lol  I look at the girls that work for KBC and we laugh.  We talk about what was for dinner, what are kids or spouses may have done the night before, and what’s on the books for today.  It’s no different than what conversations you may have with your family.  Every day  I tell people constantly, find a life group.  These are the people that support you, lift you up and when the going gets tough are there to make it better.  KBC is not any different.  We are a community and we all want to see and touch the spirit of Keller, T X.  The power of the ‘many” will always outweigh the negativity of the “few”  Together WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.