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Did you know?
- Harris County leads the state in intimate partner fatalities.
- 1 in 3 individuals will experience family violence or know someone who has.
- 3 in 5 individual instances of family violence go unreported each year.
- 70% of ALL calls made to law enforcement in Harris County are related to family violence.
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Please Join us for our next meeting:
June 5th at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall,
901 Bagby, 2nd Floor, Houston, TX 77002
To learn more about Resilience Committee meetings, click here.
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Crime Stoppers of Houston
2025 Houston's Heroes Awards Luncheon
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Council Member Carter attended the 2025 Houston’s Heroes Awards Luncheon, hosted by Crime Stoppers of Houston. The event brought together influential voices and compassionate hearts from across the city, all united in their commitment to keeping Houston’s communities safe.
One of the most moving moments of the luncheon came from April Aguirre, a Houston mother and devoted advocate for victims’ rights. After the heartbreaking loss of her young niece Arlene to a tragic shooting in 2022, April transformed her grief into purpose—working alongside state leaders to advance meaningful legislative reform. She was honored with the Fenner Weller Award for her unwavering courage and selfless service.
Council Member Carter also had the opportunity to meet K9 Rocky of the U.S. Marshals Service, Houston’s own four-legged hero. Rocky was injured in the line of duty while assisting in the apprehension of a suspect and was awarded the Johnny Klevenhagen Award for bravery. His story stands as a powerful reminder of the loyalty, resilience, and sacrifice found within our law enforcement community.
Also in attendance were Mayor John Whitmire, who spoke about the current state of the city, Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey, and broadcasting legend Dave Ward—rounding out an afternoon of powerful stories and shared purpose.
| 4th Annual Art Bike Parade & Fesitval | |
Council Member Carter had a wonderful time celebrating creativity and community at the 4th Annual Houston Art Bike Parade & Festival at Fonde Park. This fun-filled event brought together families, students, artists, and neighbors for a day of color, energy, and connection—all centered around one-of-a-kind bikes turned into rolling masterpieces.
The event, made possible by the Houston Parks Board, Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, and HISD, showcased hundreds of unique art bikes—each one reflecting the imagination and pride of our city. From dazzling designs to heartfelt themes, the parade was a true celebration of what makes Houston shine.
| Southwest Management District Tour | | |
Council Member Carter was honored to be invited on a guided tour of the Southwest Management District—a vibrant, culturally rich area that plays an important role in the fabric of our city. The tour offered an inspiring glimpse into the businesses, institutions, and community centers that make this district so special.
The visit began with a stop at the colorful HMart mural by local artist Thomas Tran, followed by a walk through HMart itself, where culture and commerce come together in a lively community setting. From there, the group visited Houston Christian University’s Independence Hall for a meaningful discussion and tour, learning more about the university’s contributions to the district’s educational and civic landscape.
The final stop at the Chinese Community Center showcased the powerful work being done to support families, seniors, and youth through thoughtful, community-led programming. A heartfelt thank you to the Southwest Management District for the invitation and for continuing to uplift the voices and stories that make Houston shine.
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Houston Area Women's Center
2025 Believe Luncheon
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Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) hosted its annual Believe Luncheon, uniting advocates, leaders, and supporters in the fight against domestic violence. This year marked a major milestone with the launch of One Safe Place—a groundbreaking facility offering streamlined, wraparound services for survivors.
A powerful panel discussion, moderated by Emilee Whitehurst, HAWC President and CEO, featured Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare, HAWC Deputy CEO Sonia Corrales, and Shannon Langrand, CEO of Langrand. Their conversation highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration and survivor-centered solutions.
HAWC also introduced its first Future Forward Awards, honoring their Legacy Donors and Champions for Change who continue to help shape a safer, more compassionate future. Honorees included:
Future Forward Beacon Award: Houston Methodist
Future Forward Catalyst Award: Weatherford International
Future Forward Trailblazer Award: Mary Alexander Jones
Future Forward Impact Award: LyondellBasell
Future Forward Visionary Award: Women of Wine Charities
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Recently, our office had the honor of touring Camp Hope, a transformative residential facility in Houston that is changing the lives of veterans and their families. Founded in 2012 by the PTSD Foundation of America, Camp Hope offers a safe, structured environment for veterans coping with combat-related post-traumatic stress—and what we witnessed during our visit was nothing short of inspiring.
After our visit, we followed up with Marilyn Kinyo, Director of Marketing and Communications for the PTSD Foundation of America, to learn more about what personally inspires her to do this work. “Before joining the Foundation, I worked with an organization that funded Camp Hope and witnessed firsthand their impactful work to support the men who sacrificed so much for our freedoms,” she shared. “As the daughter and daughter-in-law of two Veterans, I’m passionate about helping grow this organization, with the hope that one day we can also serve female Veterans and first responders.”
Camp Hope provides far more than temporary shelter—it offers a clear path toward healing. Veterans in the program receive peer mentoring, faith-based support, clinical care, and life-skills training in a peaceful campus setting designed to foster trust, connection, and transformation. “At Camp Hope, Family Coordinators provide compassionate, personalized support to Veterans' families by offering education, emotional guidance, and essential resources tailored to their unique needs,” Marilyn explained. “Through initiatives like Family Growth Groups, one-on-one sessions, and access to community-based services, they help families build resilience and stability, recognizing that healing the family is vital to the veteran's recovery journey.”
Marilyn also shared the remarkable story of Alex, a former U.S. Army soldier who once battled addiction and PTSD. “After battling PTSD and addiction for nearly two decades, former U.S. Army soldier Alex found hope and healing at Camp Hope,” she said. “With the support of the program, he overcame his struggles, regained purpose, built a beautiful family, and eventually worked his way up the ranks to become the Director of Programs at Camp Hope. His journey from brokenness to leadership is a powerful testament to how Camp Hope is saving the lives of combat veterans.”
As a city, we must never forget the weight our veterans carry or the importance of walking beside them on the road to recovery. Camp Hope provides its services completely free to residents, relying solely on donations and partnerships. Camp Hope stands as a beacon of compassion, strength, and second chances.
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Thank you:
Marilyn Kinyo
Director of Marketing & Communications
Camp Hope,
PTSD Foundation of America
For more information about Camp Hope or to see how you can help, click here.
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Magnificat Houses, Inc.
Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen
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On April 28, Council Member Carter held a press conference to honor the legacy of Loaves & Fishes Soup Kitchen, a beloved program of Magnificat Houses, Inc., that has served Houston’s downtown community for more than five decades. She was joined by Mayor John Whitmire, Director of Public Safety and Homeland Security Larry Satterwhite, HPD Chief J. Noe Diaz, Housing Director Mike Nichols, and Bobby Knight, Board Chair of Magnificat Houses, to recognize this moment of reflection, transition, and continued purpose.
Loaves & Fishes has long stood as a symbol of nourishment, dignity, and compassion—serving hundreds of meals daily to those in need. Though its original location is closing, the mission remains strong. The program will soon reopen in Midtown as part of a larger vision for a new centralized campus offering meals, housing, job training, mental health support, and more.
“From this foundation of service, they’re building a model,” said Council Member Carter. “A comprehensive space that will include nutriment help, housing support, job training, mental health care, and advocacy. They will not only serve meals—they will also provide a path forward.”
Magnificat Houses is partnering with trusted community kitchens to ensure no one is left behind. Volunteer opportunities will return soon, and the community is encouraged to stay engaged as this next chapter unfolds.
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U.S. Military Discount
U.S. veterans and active military members get 50% off general admission Zoo tickets for up to five guests all year long.
Online reservations are required.
Click here
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Gadgets for Gorillas
Did you know that your old electronics have the potential to help save wildlife? Many small handheld devices, like phones and tablets, contain minerals such as coltan, which are often mined from habitats that are home to endangered species like gorillas. By choosing to recycle your old electronics, you’re helping reduce the demand for these materials and lessening the impact of mining on critical animal habitats. It’s a small action that can make a big difference for the planet and its creatures. You can take the first step by recycling your device at the Houston Zoo, where your effort supports global conservation efforts.
| | Cultural Connections: AAPI Month will take place on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 2 to 4 PM at Collier Regional Library. This vibrant in-person celebration will feature food, performances, and activities honoring Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage. Guests will connect with local organizations and experience the rich cultural diversity of the Houston community. The event is free and open to all ages. | | The Resource Expo: Connect to Education, Health, and Career Opportunities will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 11 AM to 3 PM in the Concourse Meeting Room at Central Library. This free event will feature representatives from colleges, career services, and wellness organizations offering resources and guidance. Attendees can explore admissions info, career tools, and health practices all in one place. | | |
Community Re-Entry Network Program
The Houston Health Department’s Community Re-Entry Network Program (CRNP) continues to make a powerful impact in the lives of formerly incarcerated individuals by promoting second chances, reducing recidivism, and supporting safer communities.
CRNP offers a holistic network of services—including job readiness, life skills, mental health support, addiction recovery assistance, anger management courses, and transportation—to help participants successfully transition back into society. Peer support groups meet twice weekly, creating a safe, encouraging space for shared growth and connection.
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The 33rd Bi-Annual CRNP Graduation is coming up in June. This special event will celebrate the achievements of individuals who have completed their reentry journey.
For more information about CRNP, the upcoming graduation, or to find out how to help someone reintegrating back into society after incarceration, please click on the flyer or reach out to our office.
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May is National Elder Abuse Prevention Month
While this topic can be difficult to discuss, creating safe spaces for open conversations is essential—because knowledge is power. 1 in 10 adults over the age of 60 is a victim of abuse. Abuse can happen at home, in care facilities, or within the community—and perpetrators may include family members, caregivers, or staff.
Crime Stoppers of Houston partners with city officials and community leaders to educate families, caregivers, and
the public on how to recognize the signs of abuse, report concerns, and foster safe environments for everyone
Below are types of Elder Abuse:
Physical: Bruises, burns, or injuries caused by force
Emotional: Verbal or psychological harm, isolation or intimidation
Sexual: Non-consensual sexual contact
Neglect: Failure to meet basic needs, unsafe living conditions
Financial Exploitation: Misuse of money, forged documents or coercion
| | Click on the resources below to be redirected to the webpage. | | |
Amy Peck, District A
districta@houstontx.gov
Tarsha Jackson, District B
districtb@houstontx.gov
Abbie Kamin, District C
districtc@houstontx.gov
Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, District D
districtd@houstontx.gov
Fred Flickinger, District E
districte@houstontx.gov
Tiffany D. Thomas, District F
districtf@houstontx.gov
Mary Nan Huffman, District G
districtg@houstontx.gov
Mario Castillo, District H
districth@houstontx.gov
Joaquin Martinez, District I
districti@houstontx.gov
Edward Pollard, District J
districtj@houstontx.gov
Martha Castex-Tatum, District K
districtk@houstontx.gov
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