Understanding the Role of Local Community Centers

Are you aware that within your neighboring city or county government there exists a community support center that can provide you with information and support?

Most people do not understand the role of these community resource centers nor the value, tips, advice, free training and network opportunities they can provide.

Too often there is a misconception about the word ‘assistance’ – for most people, especially the Generation X’s (those born after 1961) the sense of needing assistance is an instant turn off or represents a label of being “incapable, indigent, or backward” and nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, these agencies act as a communication line or library pipeline of information about your local government, tax structures, education benefits, grants or guides to home ownership and getting the most affordable mortgage loan along with a home that you love. They exist to ensure your knowledgeable about your rights, that you avoid predatory lending or scams, to advise you and your family about healthy living and promote green living; and who most importantly embrace and foster education and higher learning; giving guidance to the young – our future generation.

Additionally, – if the community resource is adequately supported and embraced by local city and county government; and have strong leadership – these community centers can infuse and/or safeguard a city or community into being a prosperous and flourishing population while helping to protect your home ownership investment.

An ideal example of such a center is the Tejano Center for Community Concerns

founded in 1993 by Richard Farias; President and CEO. Local State officials, dignitaries, volunteers, media and supporters gathered today to honor a remarkable group of public servants for their relentless, heroic and generous giving of their time, skills and heart to the future generation of our city - students of the Tejano Center’s acclaimed charter school, Raul Yzaguirre School for Success.

The students here are fortunate to receive a rare and unprecedented hands-on career curriculum exposing them to various facets of life skills. Among those in attendance, was Lt. Governor David Dewhurst who is well-known among his peers for being a driving force within our Texas legislature. Described by Judge Ed Emmett as being a compassionate Texan and public official who passionately embraces both the young and old – regardless of where they were born; an example of such passion is the bill for Jessica’s Law that Lt. Governor Dewhurst has aggressively supported.

The Lt. Governor highly praised the Tejano Center and Richard Farias for their growth, success and recognition for being a charter school with almost 100% graduation of their students and who continue their education by going on to college.

Closing remarks were made by Harris County Sheriff and long-time supporter and friend - Adrian Garcia who reminded guests that the center was conceived from a dream and vision and thanked Richard Farias, the staff and directors who everyday work hard to help young people achieve their dream. Sheriff Garcia said lightheartedly that it was “folks like Richard that would put his job out of business”.

Among those in attendance were Beverly Kaufman, Judge Ed Emmett, Councilperson C.O. Bradford, Councilperson Jarvis Johnson, Councilperson James Rodriguez and Senator Mario Gallegos.

To learn more about the Tejano Center visit their website. To read about their first-ever newly appointed advisory-board click here.

First Time Homebuyer