November Newsletter

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Join us for our next meeting:

November 20th at 2:00 p.m. at City Hall,

901 Bagby, 2nd Floor, Houston, TX 77002

FIFA World Cup Houston 2026 Host Committee

Presentation by Elizabeth Carlson, Chair

Sustainability Sub-Committee

To learn more about Resilience Committee meetings, click here.

Celebrating 2025 National Night Out

Council Member Carter joined the At-Large 3 Team out across Houston for National Night Out 2025, making stops in Sunnyside, Brays Oaks Management District, Gulfton, Westchase District, Woodlake Forest, First Ward, Melrose Civic Club, Montie Beach Civic Club, Rice Military Club, and the Castillo Community Center. Each celebration offered a vibrant reminder of the power of community, connection, and shared commitment to public safety.

Held annually across the country—and deeply rooted in Houston’s neighborhoods—National Night Out is a nationwide initiative designed to promote police-community partnerships, raise crime prevention awareness, and strengthen neighborhood spirit. Houston’s version is one of the largest in the nation, with hundreds of local events bringing together families, civic leaders, first responders, and community organizations.

Council Member Carter was grateful to meet with residents and thank the Houston Police Department and Houston Fire Department for their continued service. These gatherings serve as a vital reminder that when neighbors know each other and trust each other, our city becomes safer, more united, and more resilient.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Spotlighting Courage, Advocacy, and Action

October marked Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Council Member Carter—who serves on the Board of Directors for the Texas Council on Family Violence (TCFV)—joined advocates and leaders across Texas to strengthen the movement to end abuse and empower survivors.

In Austin, Council Member Carter participated in the 2025 TCFV Texas Town Hall, hosted by the Texas Tribune, where the statewide launch of the “I’m Ok. Are You Ok?” public awareness campaign was announced with the support of Clear Channel Outdoor. Additionally, the Outdoor Advertising Association of Texas has adopted the campaign as its official statewide initiative—placing 138 billboards in English and Spanish that will reach more than 85 million Texans with messages of safety and hope.

Back here in Houston, Council Member Carter joined Council Member Abbie Kamin and community partners for AVDA’s 2025 Public Awareness Campaign launch, celebrating 45 years of service to families impacted by domestic violence. Mayor John Whitmire issued a proclamation recognizing this milestone to Lee Vela, President and CEO of Clear Channel Outdoor for his continued commitment to amplifying AVDA’s message.

The month concluded with AVDA’s “Home Safe Home: The Key to Brighter Futures” celebration, honoring survivor advocates and community champions. Council Member Carter remains deeply committed to advancing collaboration, awareness, and survivor support—both locally and statewide—working toward a Texas where every home is a safe home.

New Equipment for Houston Fire Department

Council Member Carter joined representatives from Cheniere Energy and the Fire Fighters Foundation of Houston to announce the donation of new battery-powered fans for the Houston Fire Department. These advanced, portable ventilation units will significantly improve firefighters’ ability to quickly clear smoke and hazardous fumes—enhancing safety on the frontlines for both responders and the public.

Thanks to a generous $60,000 contribution from Cheniere, 10 cutting-edge fans were purchased to help equip fire stations across the city. This donation continues Cheniere’s strong partnership with the Foundation and reflects their ongoing commitment to protecting those who serve our communities daily.

Council Member Carter extends heartfelt thanks to Cheniere and the Fire Fighters Foundation of Houston for their steadfast support of Houston’s first responders.

Celebrating 25 Years of Redemption

It was an honor for Council Member Carter to serve as a keynote speaker at Redeeming the Captives: 25th Anniversary Celebration, hosted by Less Than The Least Prison Ministries. This powerful gathering marked a quarter-century of life-changing work focused on healing, restoration, and the transformative power of second chances.

Bruce Munsterman, President Emeritus of KHCB 105.7 FM, joined as a fellow keynote speaker emphasizing the importance of faith during the journey of starting over. The evening served as both a celebration and a call to continue uplifting those impacted by incarceration with dignity and grace. A special Certificate of Appreciation was presented to Dr. John Morgan, Founding Pastor of Less Than The Least Ministries, in recognition of his faithful leadership and vision in building a ministry that has touched countless lives.

The event was a reminder that redemption is possible—and that with compassion and community, we can continue to build a Houston that believes in renewal and hope for all.

Honoring a Decade of Excellence at Beta Academy

Council Member Carter was more than happy to serve as Emcee for Beta Academy’s Annual Giving Breakfast—celebrating 10 years of transformative impact and launching the next chapter of educational innovation. Held in the heart of Southeast Houston, the event brought together state legislators, community leaders, donors, and partners in recognition of Beta Academy’s mission: to provide a world-class education to every child, regardless of zip code.

Founded in 2014, Beta Academy is a nationally recognized charter school network serving Pre-K through 8th grade scholars, with a proven model grounded in academic rigor, character development, and joyful learning. During the breakfast, Council Member Carter welcomed attendees and introduced keynote speaker Senator Mayes Middleton, who spoke passionately about the role of education in shaping strong, opportunity-filled communities.

Congratulations to Dr. Latisha Andrews and the entire Beta Academy team on a decade of excellence. And, thank you for your unwavering commitment to uplifting students and building a brighter tomorrow for our city.

2025 Houston Stand Down

Standing with our veterans at the 2025 Houston Stand Down,

Council Member Carter had the distinct honor of presenting a proclamation on behalf of Mayor John Whitmire. This inspiring annual event is dedicated to honoring and uplifting Houston’s veteran community. For more than three decades, the Houston Stand Down has provided critical wraparound services to veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness, offering the support they need to rebuild with dignity and purpose.

Held in partnership with the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, the City of Houston Office of Veterans Affairs, and dozens of nonprofit and civic partners, this year’s event connected veterans with housing assistance, employment opportunities, legal aid, medical care, food, clothing, and more. Volunteers from the Houston Astros Foundation’s Volunteer Corps and Career Gear Greater Houston were also on hand to offer guidance, gear, and gratitude.

Council Member Carter extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated organizers, service providers, and volunteers who made this year's Stand Down a resounding success. Their ongoing commitment ensures that Houston remains a city that not only honors its veterans—but invests in their future.

Celebrating Taiwan’s Double Ten Day

Council Member Carter was honored to join Houston’s vibrant Taiwanese American community for the 114th Republic of China (Taiwan) Double Ten National Day celebration—a meaningful evening dedicated to honoring the shared values of freedom, democracy, and cultural pride.

During the ceremony, Council Member Carter helped present a proclamation on behalf of Mayor John Whitmire, recognizing the enduring contributions of the Taiwanese American community to Houston’s civic, cultural, and economic landscape. From educational exchange and innovation to small business growth and civic engagement, this community continues to strengthen the city’s global connections.

Special thanks to the Southwest Management District, the International Management District, and the many community leaders who helped bring this celebration to life. Events like these remind us that Houston’s greatest strength is its diversity—and the unity we build through shared traditions and mutual respect.

Community Leadership in Action: Space Center Rotary Club

Council Member Carter recently had the opportunity to speak with the Space Center Rotary Club, a respected group of business and community leaders known for their service-driven mission. The conversation centered on Houston’s multi-faceted response to homelessness, including new transitional housing efforts, city-led partnerships, and the importance of sustainable support systems.

In addition, Council Member Carter shared insight into her "I'm Ok. Are You Ok?" initiative with continued efforts to raise awareness around domestic violence prevention—highlighting how community collaboration remains key to supporting survivors and advancing safety initiatives.

City Council Approves 419 Emancipation

Council Member Carter joined Mayor John Whitmire, City leadership, and community partners for a press conference and walkthrough of 419 Emancipation—where details were shared about the City’s bold plan to transform the facility into a triage and recovery center for individuals experiencing homelessness. The event underscored Houston’s ongoing commitment to transparency, compassion, and accountability in addressing one of our city’s most pressing challenges.

Following the press conference, City Council officially approved the purchase of 419 Emancipation on October 29—marking a major milestone in the effort to help individuals move from the streets into stability. The new facility will include up to 240 beds and offer on-site healthcare, behavioral health support, substance use recovery services, and connections to long-term housing—all essential components of a coordinated response to unsheltered homelessness.

Council Member Carter has worked closely with Chief Larry Satterwhite, Director of Public Safety and Homeland Security, and Mike Nichols, Director of Community Housing and Development, to advance this solution. She proudly supports this investment in people and public health and remains dedicated to policies that uphold dignity, safety, and opportunity for all Houstonians.

Port Houston Appreciation Day

Council Member Carter attended the Houston East End Chamber of Commerce’s Port Houston Appreciation Day, where business and civic leaders gathered to recognize the Port’s vital role in driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth throughout the region.

The day began with an insightful breakfast panel moderated by Commissioner Wendy Montoya Cloonan, featuring Candice Armenoff, Chief Strategy Officer; John Moseley, Chief Commercial Officer; and Erica Stephens-Lynch, Director of Procurement Services—all representing Port Houston. The discussion highlighted the Port’s commitment to strengthening procurement opportunities, expanding trade infrastructure, and keeping Houston globally competitive.

During the luncheon and business expo, Port Houston Board Chairman Ric Campo reflected on the Port’s legacy and future, while CEO Charlie Jenkins reaffirmed support for the Chamber’s ongoing mission to build strong partnerships and foster community development.

Fall 2025 Town Hall Engagements

This fall, Council Member Carter joined several City of Houston town halls across the city—demonstrating a continued commitment to transparency, collaboration, and resident-focused leadership. At Council Member Fred Flickinger’s District E Town Hall in Edgebrook, residents heard legislative updates from State Senator Carol Alvarado and State Representative Mary Ann Perez, while Chief Larry Satterwhite, Director of Public Safety and Homeland Security, shared insights on Houston’s homelessness initiatives. The Houston Police Department, Houston Public Works, and Department of Neighborhoods also provided timely updates, keeping residents engaged and informed on issues that matter most to their neighborhoods.

Later, at the District E Town Hall in Clear Lake, Council Member Carter joined fellow elected officials including State Representative Dennis Paul and City Council colleagues to address public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life concerns. Updates from Fire Chief Thomas Muñoz, Police Chief J. Noe Diaz, and Constable Phil Sandlin reflected a unified front in improving services and maintaining strong lines of communication between departments and the communities they serve.

The At-Large 3 Team also attended Council Member Willie Davis’s final town hall of 2025, where an impressive panel of department heads—including Houston Public Works Director Randy Macchi, Library Director Sandy Gaw, Health Director Theresa Tran, and Housing Director Mike Nichols—outlined ongoing efforts to enhance access, equity, and service delivery across Houston.

Celebrating an Age-Friendly Houston

As part of Houston’s ongoing commitment to building a more livable city for residents of every age, Council Member Carter joined AARP Houston for the Age-Friendly Community Celebration on October 28 at City Hall. The event marked five years of collaboration and measurable progress through the Age-Friendly Houston initiative, which focuses on improving accessibility, inclusion, and quality of life for older adults across the region.

During the celebration, an official proclamation on behalf of Mayor John Whitmire was presented—recognizing the city’s dedication to age-friendly policy and design. Council Member Carter highlighted Houston’s progress toward becoming a model for communities nationwide—emphasizing the importance of continued investment in transportation access, housing, health care, and civic engagement for older residents.

The event also featured remarks from Council Member Joaquin Martinez, who spoke on the importance of aging in community and elevating older adult voices in policymaking. Additional insights were shared by Rosalinda Martinez, AARP’s Director of Strategy, and Paula Johnson of Harris County’s Area Agency on Aging, reinforcing the shared responsibility of government, nonprofits, and residents in shaping a city where every generation can thrive.

Back On Track Houston (B.O.T.H.)

This fall, Council Member Carter launched Back On Track Houston (B.O.T.H.), a new citywide initiative focused on building meaningful partnerships to better support individuals impacted by homelessness, domestic violence, incarceration, and substance use. Held at City Hall, the kickoff roundtable brought together more than 45 organizations for a powerful lunch conversation rooted in collaboration, compassion, and long-term impact.

B.O.T.H. is more than a meeting—it’s a commitment to listening, learning, and aligning services across sectors to strengthen reentry, recovery, and stabilization pathways for Houstonians. From transitional housing and trauma recovery to mentorship, legal aid, and workforce development, the effort aims to bridge silos and build a stronger ecosystem of support across the city.

Council Member Carter extends her sincere thanks to every organization that participated, including Houston Health Department’s Community Reentry Network Program, Clothed by Faith, Covenant House Texas, Kids' Meals, Less Than The Least Prison Ministries, Oaks of Righteousness, Texas Council on Family Violence, The Empowered Survivor, WorkFaith, and U.S. VETS Houston, among many others.

“Back on Track Houston is about working side by side—unifying our efforts to create real solutions and second chances. I’m deeply grateful for every voice in the room and excited for where this shared work can take us.” - Council Member Carter

To learn more about how to join future B.O.T.H. conversations or get involved in the coalition, reach out to our office at (832) 393-3005 or email us at atlarge3@houstontx.gov.

TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights

Unearth new worlds of whimsy and wonder when you spend your holiday at TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights! This holiday lights experience invites you to explore the fantastical and let your imagination run wild as you adventure through the Zoo as you’ve never seen it before.

From fanciful bursts of color in our Enchanted Forest to the dazzling sights at Iridescent Immersion, there’s no end to the delights waiting for you!

Hours & Dates:

November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026

5:30 – 10:30 p.m., last entry at 9:30 p.m.

*Closed on December 3, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day

I Am Texas Exhibit on Saturday, November 8, 2025 All Day at the Jesse H. Jones Central Library. The Guinness World Record–winning “largest published book in the world.” Standing seven feet tall, this 496-pound masterpiece showcases stories, poetry, and art from over 1,000 Texas students. Stop by to take a photo and receive a free copy while supplies last.

Celebrate Cultural Connections: National American Indian Heritage Month on Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the Oak Forest Neighborhood Library.

Enjoy live entertainment, food, and activities honoring the diversity of our community. Join this festive celebration of culture, connection, and heritage.

For more Houston Public Library events, click here.