Community Resource Manual
3 of Cups
3 of Cups practices dynamic accountability and prioritizes QTBIPOC artists and other multi-marginalized members of the Houston queer art community. We seek to build community with queer artists by way of creating a supportive space for collaboration among community members and organizations. We offer arts and culture programming and services to Houston and the arts field at large.
Alliance for Justice
Alliance for Justice is a national association of over 120 organizations, representing a
broad array of groups committed to progressive values and the creation of an equitable, just, and free society. Since 1979, AFJ has been the leader in advocating for a fair and
independent justice system, preserving access to the courts, and empowering others to
stand up and fight for their causes. The two pillars of Alliance for Justice are
our Justice Program, focusing on ensuring our nations courts protect our critical
constitutional rights and legal protections, and our Bolder Advocacy Program, focusing
on building advocacy capacity for nonprofits and the foundations that fund them.
Anti-Defamation League (ADL)
Founded in 1913 in response to an escalating climate of anti-Semitism and bigotry, ADL is a leading anti-hate organization with a timeless mission: to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all. Today, ADL continues to fight all forms of hate with the same vigor and passion. A global leader in exposing extremism, delivering anti-bias education and fighting hate online, ADL’s ultimate goal is a world in which no group or individual suffers from bias, discrimination or intolerance.
Arts Connect Houston
Arts Connect Houston is a collective impact effort that strives to ensure equitable access to high-quality arts education
for every Houston Independent School District (HISD) student by driving systems change and establishing the arts as
essential to a complete education. The collective aligns seven primary stakeholder groups including over 65 local arts and
culture organizations, the Houston Independent School District, the City of Houston, the Houston Arts Alliance, the local philanthropic community, state and national partners, and community members.
Vision: Arts Connect’s vision is to realize the tremendous potential of every student by ensuring the arts as essential to a
complete education, recognizing that when students prosper, our community thrives.
Mission: Arts Connect unites the Greater Houston community to ensure access to high-quality arts education in creative
writing, dance, music, theater and the visual arts for every student, beginning with the HISD. The mission is realized
through four primary pillars of work: collecting action data, driving advocacy, building capacity, and, unlocking new
investments.
Betterment Project
Al-Noor society was established in 1987 in Houston Texas. Few brothers joined their hands together to establish an entity that offers the services to the community like observing Most of the Islamic events which were not being observed, celebrated and commemorated at that time. By the grace of Allah, in Houston Al-Noor was the only establishment provided these services. Now Al-Hamdulillah many other organizations in Houston observe these festivities. Our Friday congregation is the largest in Texas and may be in other States, as well. The society enjoys the largest participation of the Muslim community in all our year round programs. Al-Noor enjoys Non profit Tax exempt status under IRS (501 C). Al-Hamdolillah in the middle of 1992, the society managed to find a property within the vicinity to fulfill our needs. Current physical location is 6443 Prestwood Dr., Houston, Texas which is centrally located minutes from downtown Houston. The facility is about two blocks from the major freeway U.S. 59/I 69 @ Hillcroft. The present facility accommodates 1100 people. We have separate prayer halls for men and women, a large dining room, class rooms, funeral home, and a library. Al-Noor has invited numerous world renowned scholars to address our congregation at special events for last thirty (30) years. In 2012, with the goal to produce Islamic scholars (Ulema) locally, Al-Noor Institute of Islamic Sciences (AIIS) was established. This institute offers three-year fulltime and five-year part time Alim programs. So far, four Alims have graduated from Al-Noor Institute.
BF2F International, Inc
BF2F, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that addresses the impact and effects of Intimate Partner Violence and Domestic Violence in the lives of men, women, and children. We aim to recover, restore, and rebuild families and communities beyond trauma by providing education through intervention and prevention workshops. We continue to advocate for survivors of DV, IPV, and SA by providing evidence-based awareness through community outreach and events. We believe that we are giving voice to the silent and healing the broken-hearted. By partnering with other agencies and organizations we continue to build self-sufficient, self-aware, whole individuals and communities.
Our Services:
- Community Engagement
- Referral & Resource Services
- Subject Matter Awareness Events
- Domestic Violence Survivor Advocates
- Educational Intervention & Prevention Workshops
- Mental Health Speakers for Adolescent & Young Adults
Black Lives Matter: Houston
Black Lives Matter: Houston
Black Lives Matter Houston is an organization that addresses the issues that affects Black folks and collaborates with partners to build a healthy, educated, and financially stable Black community. We provide education around issues such as anti-blackness and how to be an accomplice to the Black community. We provide mutual aid and support to communities in need. We advocate for policy changes that address systemic oppressions that impact the Black community. Our ultimate goal is to pave a path for Black power and liberation where it is understood that ALL BLACK LIVES MATTER.
Brave Little Company
Brave Little Company is theatre for everyone. Since 2013, weÕve created works about,
with, and for kids and their grown-ups. We are committed to reflecting HoustonÕs
diversity in the stories we tell and the artists who tell them, with a focus on bilingual
performances, creative collaborations with individuals with learning differences, and
work with refugees.
We create theatre the way kids play. When children engage in unstructured, imaginative
exploration, their creativity is at full power, and they are at the center of the story. Our
performances may include found object puppetry; hands-on, touch-real props; sensory
storytelling; and a meaningful role for the audience in making the story happen.
BLC facilitates THE BIG ÒUSÓ PROJECT, a community-driven theatre piece led by 100
members of HoustonÕs refugee communities, now in its second year.
Brave Little Company is part of the Texas Commission on the Arts Touring Roster for
2020 – 2022.
The Bridge over Troubled Waters, Inc
bfree2flyinternational.org/bf2f-international-inc- 501c3
BF2F, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that addresses the impact and affects of Intimate Partner Violence and Domestic Violence in the lives of men, women, and children. We aim to recover, restore, and rebuild families and communities beyond trauma by providing education through intervention and prevention workshops. We continue to advocate for survivors of DV, IPV, and SA by providing evidence-based awareness through community outreach and events. We believe that we are giving voice to the silent and healing the broken- hearted. By partnering with other agencies and organizations we continue to build self-efficient, self-aware, whole individuals and communities.
- Our Services:
Community Engagement
Referral & Resource Services
Subject Matter Awareness Events
Domestic Violence Survivor Advocates
Educational Intervention & Prevention Workshops
Mental Health Speakers for Adolescent & Young Adults
Built4Agility
Our mission is to equip communities with the skills and capabilities required to move beyond the implications of
systemic racism. In doing so, we create awareness, harness the power of our collective voices for sustainable change, and accelerate communities to action.
Center for Advancing Innovative Policy (CAIP)
CAIP creates transformative policy strategies to change the dominant narrative on policy from one where only educated white men get to decide the laws that govern our lives to one that encourages everyone to participate in determining how we’re governed. The Center for Advancing Innovative Policy partners with grassroots organizations, coalitions, and networks to decode, develop, and deliver policy strategy that meets the needs of the people first.
Center for African American Military History
Center for African American Military History
The Center for African American Military History, dba Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) institution founded in 2001 by Vietnam veteran Captain Paul J. Matthews, located in Houston, Texas. The private collection of military artifacts that Captain
Matthews collected for more than 30 years became the foundation for the museum. It now boasts the largest collection of African American military memorabilia in the world.
We are dedicated to exploring and displaying the stories and contributions of African Americans in the military by way of performing and visual arts, educational programming and exhibitions. Our goal is to educate, preserve, promote and perpetuate the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of African American men and women in the military. We strive to interpret, articulate, collect, display and preserve historical artifacts, documents, videos, prints and other historical memorabilia which details the history of the brave men and women who overcame extreme adversity while gallantly fighting the great American wars.
THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS
African Americans have served proudly in every great American war. In 1866, through an act of Congress, legislation was adopted to create six all African Americans Army units. The units were identified as the 9th and 10th cavalry and the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st infantry regiments.
The four infantry regiments were later recognized to form the 24th and 25th infantry regiments. These fighting men represented the first Black professional soldiers in a [peacetime army. The recruits came from varied backgrounds including former slaves and veterans from service in the
Civil War.
The nickname Buffalo Soldiers began with the Cheyenne warriors in 1867. The actual Cheyenne translation was Wild Buffalo. The nickname was given out of respect for the fierce fighting ability of the 10th U.S. Cavalry. Overtime, Buffalo Soldiers became a generic term for all
African American soldiers serving in the 9th and 10th U.S. Cavalry and the 24th and 25th U.S. Infantry Regiments.
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, the Buffalo Soldiers were assigned to the harshest and most desolate post. Specific duties included subduing Mexican revolutionaries, outlaws, rustlers and hostile Native Americans. Additional administrative duties included exploring and mapping the Southwest and establishing outposts for future towns.
Center for the Healing of Racism
The Center for Healing Racism believes that the human race is essentially one and that racism is a learned behavior that can be unlearned. It is our goal to open up a dialogue that will educate people, which is one of the most powerful tools to fight prejudice. By working together, we can heal racism and bring positivity and empowerment to every race.
Chinese Community Center (CCC)
The Chinese Community Center (CCC) was founded in 1979 as a Chinese language and cultural heritage school to provide education and support to immigrant families. Over time, CCC expanded its programming to offer comprehensive social services that addressed the needs of Greater Houston residents from any racial or ethnic group and at any stage of life—from early childhood to retirement age. The organization received its first public funding in 1989, became a United Way of Greater Houston agency in 1991, and now serves more than 20,000 people from diverse backgrounds each year.
CCC’s programs are inclusive and open to people of any race or ethnicity, and CCC plays an essential role in the Greater Houston community through its capacity to provide culturally competent, in-language care to the Asian American population, which is the second-fastest-growing racial group in Greater Houston (AAJC, 2014).
The mission of CCC is to bridge East and West by enriching families with educational, cultural, and social service programs. To accomplish its mission, CCC focuses its services on the following areas:
supporting the learning and positive development of at-risk children and youth;
helping people from low- to moderate-income households achieve financial resilience and self-sufficiency; helping older adults maintain their health, well-being, and connection to the community; helping immigrants integrate successfully and productively into American society; and promoting cultural awareness and appreciation for the breadth of Greater Houston’s diversity.
Reflecting the diverse communities, it serves, CCC partners with United Way of Greater Houston, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), City of Houston, Empowering Communities Initiative (ECI), HOPE Clinic/Asian American Health Coalition, Houston Arts Alliance, Houston Housing and Community Development Department, Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC), National CAPACD, Southwest Management District, Texas Workforce Commission, and Workforce Solutions, among many others.
Citizens' Environmental Coalitions
Citizens’ Environmental Coalitions
The CEC connects concerned citizens and community leaders with over 120 diverse environmental organizations. We share, support, and enhance their efforts and environmental
advocacy.
CEC’s mission is to foster education, dialogue, and collaboration on environmental issues in the Houston/Gulf Coast region. Our vision is an environmental community recognized as a vital part of the fabric of our society.
CEC connects its coalition through programs, which include events that enhance understanding, and publications that give a balanced perspective on environmental issues. Publications include three websites (cechouston.org, earthdayhouston.org, and hereinhouston.org); a comprehensive weekly newsletter with local environmental information plus additional
newsletters for specific audiences; social media; and a printed and online directory of environmental organizations in the Houston region. Events include Earth Day Houston, the Greater Houston Environmental Summit, the Houston Green Films program, and an environmental education program.
Coalition of Community Organizations (COCO)
coalitionofcommunityorganizations.org
COCO’s mission is to educate, empower, and enhance lives, to make informed decisions with the goal of obtaining healthy and sustainable communities. COCO’s Vision: The distribution of information to this generation of communities and the next.
The Coalition of Community Organizations (COCO) originated in 2008 through the work of dedicated members from several community organizations, and residents in Houston and surrounding areas. These groups began working together to make sure that community interests are represented at the city, state, and national levels, and that elected officials, corporations, businesses, law enforcement, and clergy have a vested interest in our communities.
Our first endeavor together was and continues to be, to register voters and encourage eligible voters to get out to vote. Taken seriously, the quote from Hosea 4:6 which states, “my people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge,” has made us more determined to make sure that each person or organization on our distribution list is more aware of the events, critical information, and resources that affect our communities.
We provide community information through our mailing list concerning healthcare, education, the environment, criminal justice, and immigration, just to mention a few of the issues that are relevant to the stakeholders in our communities.
Our future goal is to become a powerbase within communities that is politically, economically, socially, academically, and spiritually strong to increase community involvement.
Collective Action for Youth
Our Collective advocates for these youth and their families, connects them to necessary resources so that they can reach their full potential. We all win when these youth successfully transition into adulthood.
So, how do we do this?
- By providing systems and communities training and education opportunities on creating coordinated, transformative responses for youth and families
- By connecting systems that are easily accessible by youth and their families.
- By creating virtual and real safe spaces to deliver resources so families can thrive.
- By providing youth an education on the inner workings of support structures.
- By partnering with agencies to provide employment opportunities to youth.
- By fostering inclusivity by giving youth a voice, allowing them to lead, and make decisions.
- By creating and maintaining a culture of mutual trust, transparency, access and inclusion for the sake of sustainability and longevity.
How The Collective Works – Our Focus
The Collective focuses on data sharing and integration, coordinated case management, policy, equity, education, mental health, placement, and family inclusion. We are currently partnering with Georgetown’s Center for Juvenile Justice Reform to adapt the Crossover Youth Practice Model. As the initiative progresses, our focus areas will grow and/or evolve.
The Coalition of Community Organizations (COCO) originated in 2008 through the work of dedicated members from several community organizations, and residents in Houston and surrounding areas. These groups began working together to make sure that community interests are represented at the city, state, and national levels, and that elected officials, corporations, businesses, law enforcement, and clergy have a vested interest in our communities.
Our first endeavor together was and continues to be, to register voters and encourage eligible voters to get out to vote. Taken seriously, the quote from Hosea 4:6 which states, “my people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge,” has made us more determined to make sure that each person or organization on our distribution list is more aware of the events, critical information, and resources that affect our communities.
We provide community information through our mailing list concerning healthcare, education, the environment, criminal justice, and immigration, just to mention a few of the issues that are relevant to the stakeholders in our communities.
Our future goal is to become a powerbase within communities that is politically, economically, socially, academically, and spiritually strong to increase community involvement.
Contemporary Art Museum Houston (CAMH)
Since its founding in 1948, the mission of Contemporary Arts Museum Houston (CAMH) has been to showcase art that reflects current society and the relevance of contemporary art production to the Houston community. As a non-collecting institution, CAMH has focused its efforts on being a central location to see emerging artists or artists having their first major survey exhibition. Reflecting back on the history of the institution showcases CAMH’s role in defining art history. Many of the artists who were shown at CAMH early in their careers are now luminaries of the art world and central to art history.
CAMH programs offer something for everyone. Through regularly scheduled events for children, teens, and adults, the Museum is dedicated to creating exciting ways for visitors to access and enjoy, as well as learn more about, contemporary art and artists. Programs are a vital platform for experimentation where visitors experience art and performance in the gallery space.
Admission to CAMH is always free as well as most of the public programs. CAMH is committed to accessibility through large print labels, English and Spanish labels for every exhibition, video documentation of most programs available on the YouTube channel, tours, workshops, and more.
Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is a grassroots civil rights and advocacy group. CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties organization, with regional offices nationwide. CAIR’s national headquarters are on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C.
Since its establishment in 1994, CAIR has worked to promote a positive image of Islam and Muslims in America. Through media relations, government relations, education and advocacy, CAIR puts forth an Islamic perspective to ensure the Muslim voice is represented. In offering this perspective, CAIR seeks to empower the American Muslim community and encourage their participation in political and social activism.
CAIR’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
Dawn Mountain
The mission of Dawn Mountain is to further the spiritual growth of our diversecommunity as a living bridge between traditional Tibetan Buddhist teachings and curious people everywhere. Grounded by our core values of Compassion,Community, Transformation, and Tradition, we support every individual in thediscovery, development, and expression of their intrinsic, effortless wisdom and compassion.
- We believe compassion is heartfelt kindness towards ourselves, all beings, and our shared environment.
- Community, at Dawn Mountain, is belonging and sharing with others.
- Transformation is grounded in Dawn Mountain’s mission of individual and collective growth through practice and grace.
- We celebrate and explore our tradition through its lineage of kind guidance and wisdom.
DAYA
Founded in 1996, Daya’s mission is to empower South Asian survivors of domestic and sexual violence through culturally specific services and educate the community to end the cycle of abuse.
Daya’s direct services include a confidential helpline, crisis intervention, holistic case management, mental health counseling, legal advocacy, and financial assistance. Daya also offers educational programs, trainings, and presentations to the community. To get help, call the confidential helpline at 713-981-7645.
DiverseWorks
DiverseWorks is a non-profit, multidisciplinary arts organization whose mission is to commission, produce, and present new and daring art in all its forms through innovative collaborations that honor each artistÕs vision without constraint.
Founded by artists in 1982, DiverseWorks is nationally known for its groundbreaking artistic programming, meaningful engagement with communities, and advancement of progressive art and ideas in Houston and the nation.
Dominican Sisters of Houston
MISSION STATEMENT
We, the Houston Dominican Sisters, publicly commit ourselves to study and address the crucial justice issues of our times. We assume the risks inherent in preaching and teaching the Gospel. We will work to transform social structures which oppress the powerless, ministering with them in our common struggle to remain faithful to the Word of God. (1991)
DOMINICAN SPIRITUALITY
The Dominican Order, also known as the Order of Preachers, was founded by St. Dominic de Guzman over 800 years ago, and our Dominican spirituality is inspired by his life and example. As members of the global Dominican family of religious women and men and laity, we live by the four pillars of Dominican life: study, prayer, community, and preaching. These pillars are the foundation of our Dominican spirituality and charism.
Earl Carl Institute for Legal & Social Policy, Inc
earlcarlinstitute.org
The mission of the Earl Carl Institute is to empower underserved and disenfranchised communities by addressing systemic social issues through legal representation, research, education and advocacy.
We understand the importance of bridging the gap between elected officials and their constituents. We strive to build the political awareness and capacity of Muslim Americans to engage on key policy issues that affect all of us as Americans, but especially as Muslims. Are you concerned by the Muslim Ban? Do you feel that our elected officials are not always well informed about our community? Bringing the change we need requires proactive and consistent civic participation. Engagement requires an understanding of the political process, how to engage with elected officials, and how to form partnerships with other constituencies in support of common policy positions. Emgage is a 501c(3) that implements an ecosystem of programs to develop the capacity of the Muslim voter to ensure that our narrative is part of the American fabric. Our programs include civic educational events such as issue forums and town halls, voter initiatives including Get Out The Vote (GOTV), and specific programs for the youth in order to mentor and support the next generation of leaders.
Emgage
Emgage seeks to educate, engage and empower Muslim American communities through educational events, voter initiatives, and leadership development for the purpose of creating a community of equitable, knowledgeable, and motivated citizens.
We understand the importance of bridging the gap between elected officials and their constituents. We strive to build the political awareness and capacity of Muslim Americans to engage on key policy issues that affect all of us as Americans, but especially as Muslims. Are you concerned by the Muslim Ban? Do you feel that our elected officials are not always well informed about our community? Bringing the change we need requires proactive and consistent civic participation. Engagement requires an understanding of the political process, how to engage with elected officials, and how to form partnerships with other constituencies in support of common policy positions. Emgage is a 501c(3) that implements an ecosystem of programs to develop the capacity of the Muslim voter to ensure that our narrative is part of the American fabric. Our programs include civic educational events such as issue forums and town halls, voter initiatives including Get Out The Vote (GOTV), and specific programs for the youth in order to mentor and support the next generation of leaders.
Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation
Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation
Organized in 1989, Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation (FWCRC), a NeighborWorks Charter Affiliate, is a catalytic organization dedicated to the collaborative fostering of holistic community development. As a steward of Houston’s Historic 5th Ward and comprehensive community developer, FWCRC seeks to enhance quality of life for individuals and families, eliminate blight, attract investment and resources, encourage commercial and business development, coordinate government and public service, and offer a sense of destination and creative place-making. The finished product is a healthy and vibrant community for residents and visitors alike.
Mission: We are a catalytic organization dedicated to the collaborative fostering of holistic community development.
Girls Inc. of Greater Houston
The mission of Girls Inc. of Greater Houston (GIGH) is to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. At Girls Inc., we strive to effectively meet the needs of girls in their communities; develop girls’ capacity to be self-sufficient and responsible members of the community, to help girls overcome the effects of discrimination, and to serve as a vigorous
advocate for girls, focusing attention on the specific needs of each person.
Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council
Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council
HCDVCC creates collaborations that maximize community resources, increase safety for victims of domestic violence, & hold perpetrators of domestic violence accountable.
Vision Statement:
We envision a community where all persons have relationships that are safe, healthy, and free from domestic violence.
Houston in Action
Houston in Action is an initiative made up of people and organizations who have come together to advance our community forward through our respective and collective work to build a stronger Houston through a culture of civic engagement.
Through facilitated coordination with the Steering Committee and three task forces, groups come together for collaborative projects, to think innovatively, and create new approaches to removing barrier to, and improving access to, civic engagement opportunities for Houstonians.
Houston in Action is working to increase the civic participation of Houston youth through the work of GenHTX, advance policy that supports a culture of civic engagement, reduce barriers to political engagement for the community at-large, especially those affecting marginalized communities, and provide resources that empower organizations to be more effective in these areas.
Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus
The Houston GLBT Political Caucus is the South’s oldest civil rights organization dedicated solely to the advancement of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. Founded in 1975, it is the largest GLBT political organization in the city of Houston and Harris County.
The Caucus continues to mobilize the city’s GLBT and GLBT-friendly voters, elect pro-equality candidates, influence local, state, and national elections, and works towards the implementation of pro-equality public policy. The Caucus continues to welcome any candidate who is willing to stand against discrimination and to support equal rights for GLBT individuals. The Caucus is nonpartisan and endorses candidates on the basis of their support for GLBT rights, regardless of political affiliation.
Outside of election activities, the Caucus engages in community outreach and education, often providing education and training on GLBT issues to various agencies and companies throughout the region and refers members of the community to services and resources that are available. We regularly work with law enforcement agencies to improve conditions in our jails and the treatment GLBT individuals receive from law enforcement officers. We also work to promote effective public, corporate, and organizational policies across the region that will make the Houston region a safe, welcoming place for GLBT individuals.
Hindu American Foundation (HAF)
The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) is a non-profit advocacy organization for the Hindu American community. Founded in 2003, HAF’s work impacts a range of issues — from the portrayal of Hinduism in K-12 textbooks to civil and human rights to addressing contemporary problems, such as environmental protection and inter-religious conflict, by applying Hindu philosophy.
The Foundation educates the public about Hinduism, speaks out about issues affecting Hindus worldwide, and builds bridges with institutions and individuals whose work aligns with HAF’s objectives. HAF’s three areas of focus are education, policy, and community. Through its advocacy efforts, HAF promotes dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism in order to ensure the well-being of Hindus and for all people and the planet to thrive.
Houston Jewish Collaborative for Racial Justice
Houston Jewish Collaborative for Racial Justice
Houston Jewish Collaborative for Racial Justice brings together Houston Jews to advance racial, economic and social justice within Jewish communities and the greater Houston community. You cannot achieve what you cannot imagine, and we imagine a world where people thrive with dignity and joy.
Hindus of Greater Houston (HGH)
Hindus of Greater Houston was founded in 1990 with a unique concept to bring together the entire community at one place and celebrate one of the most popular festival, the birth of Lord Krishna. The festival will showcase the rich traditions and culture and bring out the core tenets of the Hindu faith that reinforces love towards all living beings, reverence towards planet Earth and a peaceful coexistence among all. Over the years Hindus of Greater Houston collectively organized community volunteer driven events all through the year. We celebrate our youth who are the future leaders of the community and appreciate their dedication to carry the Hindu values of Vedic Dharma carried down through centuries to make this world a better place for all. In fact, we recently launched the Young Hindus of Greater Houston to engage youth from across Houston.
Holocaust Museum Houston (HMH)
Never again did not hold true as genocides and human rights violations persist around the world. Holocaust Museum Houston is dedicated to educating people about the Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the survivors’ legacy. Using the lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides, we teach the dangers of hatred, prejudice and apathy. We promote responsible individual behavior, cultivating civility and pursuing social justice, in order to build a more humane society.
We envision a society that transforms ignorance into respect for human life, that remembers the Holocaust, and reaffirms an individual’s responsibility for the collective actions of society. Holocaust Museum Houston strives to embody our mission through six galleries, four permanent and two traveling, through public programing, and through a wide range of educational programs for people from pre-K to adult.
For more information on Holocaust Museum Houston and their programming, please visit the website at www.hmh.org.
Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC)
hawc.orgSince 1977, the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) has worked relentlessly to stop interpersonal violence – domestic abuse, sexual assault, dating violence, sex trafficking, and child abuse – helping survivors build lives free from the effects of such violence. To empower survivors on their healing journeys, we provide crisis response services, including 24/7 hotlines, hospital accompaniment, and a 120-bed emergency shelter, as well as counseling, legal and financial advocacy, case management, housing support, and court accompaniment for children and adults. HAWC advocates provide resources, information and trainings to youth, professionals and community members about the impact of interpersonal violence and ways to reduce and stop such violence in their homes, schools and neighborhoods.
All HAWC services are free, confidential, and available to all.
HAWC Domestic Violence Hotline: 713-528-2121; TDD 713-528-3625; Toll Free 1-800-256-0551
HAWC Rape Crisis Hotline: 713-528-7273; TDD 713-528-3691; Toll Free 1-800-256-0661
Walk-in services available at 1010 Waugh Drive, Houston , TX 77019. Monday-Friday, 8:30am to 9pm; Saturday 8:30am to 5:30pm
Main office: 713-528-6798
www.hawc.org
Houston Grand Opera (HGOco)
HGOco connects HGO’s creative resources with our diverse and vibrant community. The “co” in HGOco stands for company, community, and collaboration. HGOco’s innovative and engaging programs take place throughout the Houston area—in schools, parks, community landmarks, alternative performance spaces, and at the Wortham Theater Center, providing a range of opportunities for Houstonians of all ages to seek, engage, and learn through the inspiring art of opera.
The nationally recognized Song of Houston initiative commissions new chamber operas and song projects that resonate with contemporary life in Houston and develops community projects that foster collaborations with many Houston-area organizations.
Our multi-faceted Education Program includes Opera to Go!, High School Night and student matinees of main-stage productions, the Bauer Family High School Voice Studio, professional development workshops for teachers, opera camps, and residency programs.
Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative (HILSC)
houstonimmigration.org
The vision of the Collaborative is that no Houston immigrant goes without legal assistance while seeking legal status and navigating the complexities of the U.S. immigration system.
In 2013, local organizations working with immigrant communities came together to address the lack of legal services capacity in the Houston region. These early meetings eventually became the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative (HILSC or the Collaborative). Collaborative stakeholders include non-profit legal services providers, outreach and advocacy organizations, the business community, law school legal clinics, public agencies, and private foundations.
The mission of the Collaborative is to create a coordinated network of effective and efficient services to assist low-income immigrants access the information and legal representation that allows them to make choices in their own best interest.
HILSC brings together Houston’s best and brightest non-profit and legal minds to:
The Collaborative plays a critical convening, coordinating, and communication role in the legal services community. Through our work, more immigrants are receiving low-cost, high-quality legal services for immigration issues in Houston. Our work has become even more urgent in 2019, as the executive orders on immigration have dramatically increased the demand for immigration legal services and education & outreach efforts in Houston’s diverse immigrant communities.
Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston (IMGH)
imgh.org
Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston is a multi-service United Way agency addressing the health and nutrition needs of seniors, welcoming refugees and asylees in peril to Houston, recruiting and matching volunteers for the Houston’s nonprofit community organizations, and, building understanding and respect for people of all faiths and people of no particular faith. Our goal is to educate our community about its diversity and collaborate together in serving its needs. We stand strong against religious bigotry, intolerance and all forms of prejudice. Our Multi-Faith Council is a diverse body of community and religious leaders who work together to create a respectful environment for all.
Irene Greaves (Lovescaper)
lovescaping.org/
Irene Greaves is a Lovescaper. Above all things, she believes in love, love as a force for positive change in the world, love as panacea for the problems that plague the world. She believes learning to love should be the most important purpose of education. Irene is the Founder and Director of “Lovescaping,” a program that seeks to teach socio-emotional skills through the practice of learning how to love. Lovescaping is based on the premise that we can learn how to love, and that in order for us to put love into practice we need to very intentionally and purposefully learn how to practice its 15 pillars: respect, care, honesty, communication, empathy, trust, patience, compassion, liberation, humility, vulnerability, solidarity, hope, gratitude and forgiveness. Irene is currently implementing her 17-session Lovescaping program at different public schools throughout the city of Houston, working with students of all ages, 1st grade through 12th grade. The goal of the program is for students to develop self-love and love for others.
Keveney Evanne, LLC
Keveney Evanne Avila, JD, is a Soul Companion and sacred activist. She believes that we humans incarnate to commune, to serve, and to love. Keveney knows that all souls have access to a direct connection to the Divine – a connection that, when you tap into it, brings immense clarity, courage, compassion, and joy. She loves nothing more than to help others discover their inner truth and divinity so they can bravely fulfill their unique purpose and radically serve others.
Keveney is the Founder of LoveMuch™ and The Ring of Love™, programs designed to teach the mystical essence required to inhabit our souls and the world with wisdom, justice, empathy, beauty, and harmony. Throughout her journey, Keveney studies various religions and spiritual philosophies, mystical and Indigenous Traditions, and ancient healing technologies; she welcomes seekers on all walks as well as those that don’t embrace any specific spiritual path.
She believes we all have a holy responsibility to leave the world better than we found it, and she teaches others how to become peaceful advocates for self, social, and systemic change. Prior to establishing Keveney Evanne LLC in 2017, Keveney practiced law in corporate America for a decade and volunteered much of her time to representing unaccompanied, immigrant children and survivors of international human trafficking. Keveney keeps her law license active and is an activist at heart; she majored in peace and conflict studies and political thought in college.
Latinx Artist Society in Opera
Latinx Artist Society in Opera
Latinx Artist Society in Opera is a national community organization that strives to actively decolonize the vocal classical music field and foster an inclusive, accepting Latinx singing
community that promotes, educates, and raises awareness on all related matters pertaining to our Latinidad.
Mi Familia Vota
mifamiliavota.org
Mi Familia Vota is a national civic engagement organization that unites Latino, immigrant, and allied communities to promote social and economic justice through citizenship workshops, voter registration, and voter participation. Mi Familia Vota has operations in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, and Texas.
We are strategically located in states with some of the highest Latino population counts, but have worked to identify and serve communities where Latino participation in the electoral process is lacking. We advocate year-round on critically important issues that affect our community in the fields of immigration, voting rights, the environment, workers’ rights, education, and health care.
Our mission is to build Latino political power by expanding the electorate, strengthening local infrastructures, and through year-round voter engagement. We are also training the next generation of leaders by opening opportunities through our Youth Development Programs and through our Mi Familia Vota work.
Minaret Foundation
Minaret Foundation’s mission is to build multi-faith and civic engagement relationships for the Muslim community.
Mindshift LLC
MindShift LLC teaches clients to manage their organizational and personal changes. We offer story-based courses that teach participants to listen with empathy and shift their thoughts and actions toward allyship. Our services include the following:
– working with clients to develop strategies and plans for diversity and inclusion
– developing and delivering online and in-person training and events related to diversity, inclusion, and antiracism
– leadership coaching, development, and training.
MultiCultural Center (MCC)
multiculturalcenter.net
The MultiCultural Center (MCC) is a state of the art facility that enhances the interaction between Southeast Houston’s diverse cultural and religious groups through social, educational, recreational, and service oriented activities that celebrate our shared humanity and address our common challenges.
OCA-Greater Houston
ocahouston.org
Headquartered in Washington, DC, OCA is a national membership-driven civil rights organization of community advocates dedicated to advancing the social, political, and economic well-being of Asian Pacific Americans (APAs). With 100+ chapters and college affiliates across the country and a membership that reaches 30,000 constituents, OCA seeks to empower the APA community through its national and local presence. Founded in 1973 as the “Organization of Chinese Americans,” the organization has since evolved to become OCA -Asian Pacific American Advocates.
OCA-Greater Houston Chapter is a volunteer driven organization of community advocates that strives to meet the current and evolving needs of a diverse population through a comprehensive continuum of programs targeting different life stages of AAPIs with a focus on developing advocacy, leadership, and civic engagement participation of AAPIs. The OCA-Greater Houston Chapter board members along with key community volunteer members work to fundraise, implement our programs to empower the AAPI community through: leadership training; education workshops; arts, cultural, and advocacy awareness; legal clinics; internships; scholarships; mentoring and civic engagement; and monitoring our national and local advocacy, policy positions, and initiatives.
OCA-Greater Houston programs impact the next generation to seek leadership roles and a “Seat at the Table”. We want the AAPI community to have representation at all levels of Business, Corporate, Government and Community leadership. Our overarching goal is to increase the long-term leadership, civic participation, education and engagement of AAPIs in the Greater Houston metropolitan area. OCA-GH seeks to accomplish this in a holistic manner that will include people who may have limited English proficiency and/or are low-income. Asian Americans in Greater Houston face language, cultural, and economic barriers that can limit the AAPI community from attaining its hopes and aspirations. We believe the next generation of AAPI leaders need to understand the needs of the community in order to represent AAPIs well.
Partnership for the Advancement & Immersion of Refugees (PAIR) Houston
PAIR empowers refugee youth to navigate American society, reach their academic potential, and become community leaders through educational and mentoring programs.
Through weekly Global Explorers, Global Learners, and Global Leaders programs for middle and high school students and annual events like Career Day, college visits, and community service activities, PAIR builds relationships, boosts achievement, opens doors, and inspires success. At the same time, PAIR provides its volunteers with leadership opportunities and experiences that increase their understanding of global issues and their ability to work with diverse cultures.
The Quiet Rebel, LLC
The Quiet Rebel, LLC works with organizations and individuals who are actively committed to creating equitable communities for every HUMAN in their reach. Lead Rebel, Tracie JaeÕs work in the world is creating incremental and organic shifts to the status quo. She believes that grace-filled and authentic conversations are essential to fostering greater understanding, building trust and peaceful coexistence.
In her work, she centers humans, celebrates differences and honors lived experiences. Her proprietary frameworks, 100 Voices Guided Dialogue and HUMAN Centered Equity are based on evidence-based practices in clinical and cognitive psychology, communications research, and focusing on what makes us fully human, at both our best and worst.
Tracie Jae is a life-long Houstonian who holds a BA in Business Administration and MA in Strategic Communication and Leadership. She leads from the perspective of LOVE first, always and encourages: (l)istening with our hearts, (o)wing our experiences, (v)enturing into unfamiliar territory and (e)xpecting the best.
The Race Equity Leadership and Research Collective
The Race Equity Leadership Collective (The RECollective) is a non-profit organization founded in 2020 to build skills among community leaders to dismantle racism by drawing on the lived experiences in Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities.
Our Mission
Our mission is to help transform the landscapes for research, advocacy, and policy through centering BIPOC narratives that are historically exploited, appropriated, and deliberately silenced through systemic racism.
Why the Race Equity Leadership and Research Collective?
Lessons from America’s recent racial reckoning clearly indicate our systems, institutions, and industries need to be thoughtfully interrogated when it comes to race equity. States and municipalities have declared systemic racism a public health crisis; however, these declarations will remain hollow without true accountability and transformation. What will ultimately help to transform systemic oppression in our nation is building the capacity of emerging and current leaders to rethink how white supremacy has permeated their institutions, interventions, priorities, practices, and policies.
In Houston, coined the most diverse city in America, we have an opportunity to do this. In the RECollective’s Ukombozi Fellowship we train BIPOC and white leaders to: 1) commit to disrupting and dismantling white supremacy, 2) create systems of accountability in their work and civic engagement, and 3) challenge status quo systems that continue to perpetuate racial oppression. We believe that this movement of BIPOC and white leaders will create a groundswell in the state of Texas where individuals feel empowered, confident and skilled to dismantle these systems. Our hope is that the RECollective’s efforts will lead to shifts in how we lead, fund, and practice equity in the state of Texas.
Racial Healing International (RHI)
racialhealinginternational.org
Racial Healing International (RHI) is a non-governmental, non-partisan organization devoted exclusively to addressing historic and contemporary effects of colonization, a dark period of racial terrorism in our past that though most people would rather forget, casts a shadow across the world and compromise our commitment to reconciliation, racial equity, and healing.
At a time when the need for racial equity has never been more urgent, there is a reckoning taking place around the world over how we remember our history. Though much of the focus has been to take down monuments that celebrate racist historical figures, RHI was conceived to galvanize support and give an unmatched impetus for the establishment of a United Nations Colonization Memorial (UNCM) in Houston, Texas to commemorate victims of colonization worldwide, and advance transformative solidarity efforts as a collective force for sustainable global change.
The organization’s logo which combines the symbol of a man, a woman, a trumpet, and a globe, is a visual representation of worldwide calls for racial healing.
Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church (RMCC)
Our mission is to demonstrate God’s unconditional love to all people through Christ-like action. Resurrection MCC is open to everyone. We share the love of God with all people just as they are. We experience a relevant spirituality that is both positive and practical, filled with liberating hope and unconditional love.
We are an inclusive and diverse congregation. We welcome people of all races, cultures, spiritual backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. Because our faith is rooted in the ministry and teachings of Jesus, we respect those who connect with God through other spiritual paths. Through Christlike action we seek to love God and love our neighbor by doing justice, practicing kindness, and walking humbly with God.
Our vision is to boldly experience, engage, and embody our faith to transform ourselves and the world into the full expression of Christ’s inclusive love.
We grow in inclusivity and love in action. Wherever people are on their spiritual journey, they experience the liberation of God’s grace. We are a catalyst for healing, acceptance, and positive change. Building an increasingly engaged congregation, we mobilize members to serve in new and expanding ministries. Our movement attracts new congregants who reflect the diversity of our larger population.
As we embody God’s unconditional love, we are a growing force for compassion, justice, and equality for all people. In our quest for justice, we partner with other communities and organizations. We stand for the inherent dignity of all of God’s creation.
Rice University's Boniuk Institute for Religious Tolerance
Rice University’s Boniuk Institute for Religious Tolerance
Rice University’s Boniuk Institute was founded in 2004 as the Boniuk Center and expanded in 2013 as the Boniuk Institute. It is dedicated to nurturing religious tolerance and advancing religious literacy, respect and mutual understanding among people of all and no faiths, especially youth, through research, educational initiatives and community engagement. The Boniuk Institute partners with Rice departments and programs to offer lectures and research opportunities, and with interfaith organizations, churches, synagogues, educational institutions and youth programs, community centers, and museums. Now entering its third year, our religious literacy program trains teachers in Houston Independent School District and Fort Bend Independent School District (two of the largest and most diverse public school systems in the nation) in religious literacy in the Abrahamic traditions and in a number of Asian religious and philosophical traditions. Our outreach program provides training on religious and other forms of diversity and tolerance, anti-Semitism, and Islamophobia to the Department of Justice, the FBI, police departments, chambers of commerce, religious and corporate leaders, nonprofits, and youth programs.
In 2018, we inaugurated our Arts of Tolerance program, which brings high quality music, dance, and performance arts to the Houston community around the theme of tolerance. For our opening season, we partnered with national (Silk Road Ensemble) and local arts organizations (FLAMART, Moody Center for the Arts, Foundation for Modern Music, Strictly Street Salsa, The Shepherd School of Music, Katherine G. McGovern College of the Arts, Miller Outdoor Theater, and 3 university chorales). We are now in our second season, which includes partnerships with Holocaust Museum Houston on its Coexistence Exhibition in May 2019, the distinguished wind quintet Windsync, and two new performances at Miller Outdoor Theater.
Rothko Chapel
rothkochapel.org
The Rothko Chapel is a spiritual space, a forum for world leaders, a place for solitude and gathering. It’s an epicenter for civil rights activists, a quiet disruption, a stillness that moves. It’s a destination for the 100,000 people of all faiths who visit each year from all parts of the world. It is the home of the Óscar Romero Award.
The space contains 14 murals created by American artist Mark Rothko. Philip Johnson, Howard Barnstone, and Eugene Aubry were the architects.
Outside, Barnett Newman’s Broken Obelisk rises above the reflecting pool on the Plaza. The sculpture is dedicated to The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose active outer life in service of social justice, informed by a deeply spiritual interior life, resonated with founders John and Dominique de Menil. The couple also founded the nearby Menil Collection, which offers a different sort of unique experience.
SAYHU: South Asian Youth in Houston Unite
South Asian Youth in Houston Unite (SAYHU) is a transnational feminist collective that empowers young South Asian Houstonians by creating spaces where they can engage in, learn about, and effectively respond to complex social issues in their lives and our communities in Texas.
Our programming centers issues of race, gender, sexual orientation, class, religion, caste, ethnicity, and other intersections of identity. Through regular community gatherings and events, an annual Summer Institute, and a regional summit, we are establishing a social justice-minded South Asian network in Houston. Together, we seek to increase political engagement and visibility among South Asian youth in Houston, engage in multidisciplinary research that informs our understanding of social inequalities, and promote social justice within our multiracial community network.
Our approach to learning, researching, teaching and advocating for social justice and civic engagement makes space for diverse South Asian experiences. With our digital archive, SAYHU’s Preservation Project, we will document the many experiences and histories of South Asians in Texas.
Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom (SoSS)
sosspeace.org
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® builds strong relationships between Muslim and Jewish women based on developing trust and respect and ending anti-Muslim and anti-Jewish sentiment. Local chapters form the heart and soul of the Sisterhood of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom. Each chapter consists of 10-20 Muslim and Jewish women, ideally evenly balanced between women of each faith. Chapter members commit to meeting regularly, every four to six weeks, for dialogue, socialization, community-building, and social action projects. The ongoing relationships formed in chapters are the heart and soul of the Sisterhood. Chapters also take part in regional gatherings and training, which grant chapter members opportunities to meet sisters from nearby communities and to gain skills to deepen dialogue and activism. The Houston chapter of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom consists of several dialogue circles in different parts of Greater Houston, comprising women who self-identify as Muslim or Jewish and come together to wage peace through meaningful dialogue and action.
The mission of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom (SOSS) is to build trust, respect, and relationships between American Muslim and Jewish women.
Through these relationships, the women commit to work together:
-To limit acts of anti-Muslim and anti-Jewish sentiment
-Stand up to hate against one another
-Engage in social action work
Tahirih Justice Center (TJC)
The Tahirih Justice Center is a national non-profit that has served over 25,000 courageous individuals fleeing violence since 1997. Our efficient, effective, and innovative model of service is now delivered from five locations, and we’re committed to serving as many immigrant women and girls as possible.
Texas Jail Project
The mission of Texas Jail Project is to empower incarcerated people in county jails by lifting their voices through stories, testimonies, and community building. We hold jails as well as the entire criminal punishment system accountable—informing the public and lawmakers about civil rights violations, structural racism, and the punitive attitudes underlying the mistreatment and medical neglect inside Texas county jails.
Please visit our websites www.texasjailproject.org, sheddinglight.in/texas, jailhousestories.org for more information.
You can find us on Twitter @txjailproject and FB facebook.com/texasjailproject
Texas Partnership For Out Of School Time (TXPOST)
Texas Partnership For Out Of School Time (TXPOST)
For Texas K-12 students, more than 80% of their time is spent learning outside of school. Classrooms are not the only places that kids learn, and academic learning is not the only learning that students have lost because of the pandemic. High-quality out of school time (OST), which includes afterschool, summer, and enrichment programs, provides applied learning opportunities that help kids develop critical social-emotional skills and nurturing peer and mentor relationships that accelerate academic learning and prepare youth for postsecondary success.
In addition to readying the workforce of tomorrow, OST supports the workforce of today by providing safe and engaging spaces for kids with working parents and expands career pipelines for educators. It’s also an essential part of our communities, especially during the pandemic when community-based providers stood up additional health and safety measures to continue offering in-person care and learning, while connecting families to critical services and resources, such as food, technology, and healthcare.
TXPOST is a critical component of the functioning ecosystem of support necessary for whole child development and whole communities; partnerships between schools and community-based OST providers are vital for rebuilding a sustainable Texas education system to better respond to the needs of our youth and prepare them for a fulfilling future.
The Texas Partnership for Out of School Time (TXPOST) is a statewide intermediary whose mission is to convene, educate, and advocate to improve the quality and increase the availability of out of school time opportunities for Texas youth. TXPOST works in partnership with vital leaders at local and regional levels who invest deeply in their own communities to offer professional development opportunities, engage in system building work, advocate for the OST field, and support local programs.
The Alliance
thealliancetx.org
The Alliance works to create opportunities for refugees, immigrants, and underserved residents to achieve their goals for self-sufficiency and improve their quality of life. Founded over 33 years ago, The Alliance provides holistic services and innovative social enterprises to empower residents who face financial, educational, health, language or cultural barriers to realizing their dreams.
The Jung Center
junghouston.org
Through more than two hundred educational events every year, The Jung Center uses psychology and the arts to explore the critical social and spiritual issues of our lives. The Center, which was founded in 1958 by five visionary Houston women, offers Houstonians from all backgrounds practical ways to make our lives more meaningful. We help Houstonians answer the call to live examined, connected, courageous lives.
The Montrose Center
montrosecenter.org
The Montrose Center empowers our community, primarily lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and their families, to enjoy healthier and more fulfilling lives. We envision a healthier society marked by permanent, positive changes in attitudes and behaviors toward GLBT communities, and the ability of all GLBT individuals to realize their fullest potential.
United Against Human Trafficking (UAHT)
uaht.org
We believe that no human life should be for sale. Children and teenagers, men and women are exploited for sex and labor in our city every day. We exist to change that.
Awareness inspires action. Through awareness, we turn our community’s attention to the atrocity of human trafficking. Our neighbors become empowered to join our strategy to address this human rights violation.
Education prepares the community.
Through education, we prepare professionals, first responders and community members to recognize and address human trafficking situations. Institutions become qualified to aid victims and survivors with a trauma-informed approach.
Outreach prevents exploitation and empowers victims and survivors. Through programs, support groups, and direct outreach, we bridge the gap between service providers and those who need them. We interact with overlooked people to identify exploitation and connect them with appropriate resources for restoration.
Human trafficking is a violation of basic human rights and should be addressed as such. We must restore that basic human right to every trafficked person—freedom.
The University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work (GCSW)
uh.edu/socialwork/
The University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work (GCSW) prepares diverse leaders in practice and research to address complex challenges and achieve sustainable social, racial, economic, and political justice, locally and globally, through exceptional education, innovative research, and meaningful community engagement.
YMCA of Greater Houston
ymcahouston.org
Through all of our history spanning over 125 years, the YMCA of Greater Houston has been a place where people can find hope, fellowship and healing. Founded in 1886, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million people in Greater Houston who learn, grow and thrive through programs and services at our 26 centers.
We will have to repent in this generation not merely for the vitriolic words and actions of the bad people, but for the appalling silence of the good people. We must come to see that human progress never rolls on the wheels of inevitability.
Martin Luther King Jr.
