Happy Friday Everybody! (March 22, 2013)
Welcome to the community of people who are acting locally to make Waco one of the best places to live in Texas!
March is subscription month at www.actlocallywaco.org. If you think the Friday Update email valuable, please forward this email to a friend and encourage him/her to subscribe. There are two ways to subscribe:
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Let’s keep everyone informed about all the great things that are going on in Waco to build up our community! Thanks for all you do! – ABT
* Items added new this week are marked in orange *
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· Part Time Job at Caritas — Caritas of Waco Development Department Assistant: Maintains donor records and assists Executive Director in acknowledging donations. Duties include but not limited to: prepare letters acknowledging donations; assist with donor recognition activities; handle mailings to donors; update donor database; make phone contacts related to fundraising activities. Strong experience with Excel and Word is required and work with other fundraising computer systems is preferred. High school diploma or equivalent. Ability to work cooperatively with donors. 20 hours/week. Send resumes to Caritas, car...@grandecom.net, or bring to 300 South 15th, Waco, Texas 76701. (Posted March 15, 2013)
· Office aide/ instructional aide needed at Waco Charter School – Primary responsibilities answering the phone, copying, faxing, organizing and filing. Typing memos and fliers and other special projects. Assist in the classroom when an instructional aide is absent. Should have the physical strength to work with students energetically. Work hours would be from 9:00- 5:30 (part time position that can lead to a full time position) Click here for job description: Waco Charter School Job. For more information or to apply, email Principal Sabrina Gray at sabrin...@wacocharterschool.org. (Posted March 21, 2013)
Do you know someone who can use this news?
· Goodwill expanding GED/ESL programs – In addition to our evening classes, we are now going to be offering morning GED/ESL classes: Tuesdays GED from 9:00-12:00, Thursdays ESL from 9:00-12:00, This schedule begins on Tuesday March 26th. Our GED/ESL evening classes will still be held Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 5:00pm – 8:00pm. For more information contact Meghan Holder by phone at (254) 753-7337 ext. 140 or by email at mho...@hotgoodwill.org. (Posted March 21, 2013)
· The Wheels of Sharing Mobile Food Pantry Schedule – Every 1st Tuesday of the month at 123 E. Texas Ave in Mart, TX. Every 2nd Saturday of the month at Paul Quinn Campus, Waco, TX. Every 3rd Friday of the month at 320 Falls St, Marlin, TX. Every 3rd Tuesday of the month at Texas State Technical College. Mazanec Rd, Waco TX. <MORE> (Posted March 21, 2013)
· GED testing on computer at TSTC – The TSTC Center for Assessment is now offering the GED® test on computer, a brand new way to take today’s test and earn your GED® credential. With the GED® test on computer, success is just clicks away™. Register today at www.GEDcomputer.com. Available to NEW test-takers ONLY. Paper based test scores and computer based test scores cannot be combined. Remember: The GED® test must be taken in person, at an official GED® testing center. <MORE> <Registration instructions> (Posted March 14, 2013)
· Kids Computer Class at East Waco Library – for 3rd through 7th grade students, is offered each month at East Waco Library, 901 Elm Ave., from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. The next lessons are: April 18 – Internet Web Sites; May 16 – Using the Online Library Catalog. Please sign up by calling Stacy Phillips at 750-5956 to make a reservation. (Posted March 14, 2013)
· Homework tutors at East and West Waco Libraries – Homework tutors for elementary through middle scholars. East Waco Library, 901 Elm Ave., Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. West Waco Library, 5301 Bosque Blvd, Thursdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. For more information about this and other Kid & Youth services at Waco – McLennan County Libraries, visit the webpage: Kids & Youth services at the Library. (Posted March 14, 2013)
· EOAC services by appointment only – Effective immediately EOAC Community Programming will no longer accept walk-in clients. The only exception is if the client’s utility has been disconnected. Clients can call their utility company to request an extension or set up a payment plan. Applications are available at the front desk located at 512 Franklin Ave or online at http://eoacwaco.org/page33.html. Once an application has been completed call 254-756-0954 to schedule an appointment. (Posted March 7, 2013)
· TSTC Continuing Education – Texas State Technical College has launched a new Continuing Education program including dozens of courses. Courses include woodworking, culinary arts, green construction techniques, automobile maintenance, formal and informal business courses and more. For a complete listing of courses, prices, dates and times, visit www.waco.tstc.edu/continuinged. For more information, call 867-3020. (Posted March 7, 2013)
· Caritas senior discount – Caritas Thrift Stores offer a 20 percent discount every Tuesday to shoppers ages 60 and older. The stores, located at 3116 Franklin Ave. and 3016 Bellmead Drive, feature estate sale merchandise, clothing, jewelry, furniture, electronics and household items. For more information, call 753-0125 or 799-0777. (Posted March 7, 2013)
· Free “Love and Logic” Parenting Class presented by STARRY Counseling – The goal of the class is to teach you how to have a good relationship with your children while at the same time teaching them to be responsible and respectful. Come prepared to learn lots of helpful techniques to make parenting more fun and less stressful! Classes will be held Mondays (6:00pm-7:30pm) from April 8 until April 29. For more information call (254) 399-6552. Space is limited so reserve your spot today. <MORE> (Posted February 28, 2013)
· Financial Literacy Classes – Waco CDC offers financial literacy classes throughout the year, free of charge, open to the public. Click here for their 2013 schedule: Waco CDC Financial Literacy Classes. (Posted February 28, 2013)
· Stress-busting program for family care-givers of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias – Do you provide care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias? You Are Not Alone. Caregiving can be stressful. This program will provide stress management techniques, and relaxation and coping strategies. The program meets 90 minutes/week for 9 weeks in groups of up to 8 people. February 21, 2013 – April 18, 2013, 3:00pm – 4:30pm. Limestone Medical Center (board room), 701 McClintic Drive, Groesbeck. Provided by Area Agency on Aging in the Heart of Texas. Please call 254-645-0328 to register!! <MORE> (Posted February 21, 2013)
· March 22 – Free Legal Aid for Veterans – Baylor Law School Veterans Clinic will offer free legal aid to military members from 1 to 4 p.m. March 22 at Veterans One Stop, 2220 Austin Ave. All veterans are welcome. Appointments are not necessary. The clinic is for civil legal matters only. For more information, call 710-4244 or email veteran...@baylor.edu.
· March 23 – EOAC Head Start/Early Head Start Family Resource Day – Come join us to piece it all together! Time: 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM, Location: T.E. Dorsey Head Start, 3221 Speight Street, Waco. Our goal is to help connect service providers to those in need and to provide you as consumers the means to effectively communicate your needs to the service providers. All are welcome! For more information contact EOAC Head Start/ Early Head Start at (254) 753-0331. <MORE>
· March 23 – Affordable Housing Fair – 11:00am – 2:00pm at Carver Park Baptist Church, 1020 Herring Avenue. Learn how to buy your own home, what to do to fix the title to your family home, receive information on Down Payment Assistance programs, sign up for free financial literacy and homebuyer education classes and more! There will also be free food served at the event. It is sponsored by Waco Habitat for Humanity, Waco Community Development, City of Waco – Housing and Community Development, H.O.T. Legal Aid, Home Abstract and Title Company, and NeighborWorks Waco . For more information contact Britt Duke by email at br...@wacohabitat.org. <Flyer>
Can you meet this need?
· “Early Riser” Volunteer needed for Family Abuse Center – We are currently seeking an “early riser” to Volunteer to pick up a donation for us each Sunday morning at 6 am. at the HEB on Wooded Acres and deliver to the shelter. If you would be interested, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Amy Reagan at (254)772-8999 or amy.r...@familyabusecenter.org. (Posted March 21, 2013)
· Volunteers needed to drive – Friends for Life seeks volunteers to drive clients to appointments. For more information, call 254-772-8100, ext. 110, or email de...@friendsforlife.org. (posted March 15, 2013)
· Family Abuse Center needs Towels - We are completely out of towels. Every family that arrives needs sheets, blankets and towels. So if you’ve been thinking of getting some new ones, or you are just now shopping, pick up some extra towels for us. We love getting new towels or gently used towels! (Wash cloths too.) Drop off your donations at the Second Chance Thrift Shop, 1412 Sunset in Waco (It’s in the shopping center behind Coco’s Snow Cones on Bosque). (posted March 7, 2013)
· Volunteer Opportunity: GED tutors needed – Christian Women’s Job Corps, 4112 Memorial Drive, is seeking GED tutors to instruct in reading, grammar and math on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. To volunteer, call Becky at 757-0416 or email be...@cwjcwaco.org. (Posted February 28, 2013)
· Whether In Line or Online—Help McLennan County Residents Access Food and Medical Benefits – There’s a new way for community-based organizations to help McLennan County residents get food, medical and other benefits. Texas’ Health and Human Service Commission (HHSC) has launched its statewide Community Partner Program. The Community Partner Program allows faith and community-based organizations to provide information and application assistance for state social services such as SNAP, Medicaid, CHIP, and TANF. Community Partners will receive training, certification for staff, and reports that show how many people you are helping. To learn more about the program and how your faith community can get involved please contact Shamethia Webb at Shameth...@baylor.edu or 254-710-7472. (Posted February 28, 2013)
· Meals on Wheels needs volunteers – Give one hour of your week between 10:30 and 11:30 to deliver lunch to an older adult. Contact, Barbara Danna, 254-752-0316 to volunteer. (Posted February 21, 2013)
Great giving opportunity!
· Ride for Relief Matching Grant – World Hunger Relief, Inc. has a $5000 match for the Ride for Relief. We need your help meet our goal. Please click here to sponsor a Ride for Relief team. We still have a long way to get to 5K, now is a great time to give! You may give by clicking on a team or mailing in a check marked Ride for Relief with the name of the team you want to sponsor. Contact Matt Hess if you have questions: ride4...@worldhungerrelief.org 254-799-5611. (Posted March 21, 2013)
· Library Book Sale Donations – The friends of the Waco-McLennan County Library are accepting donations of hardback and paperback books, cd’s, dvd’s, textbooks, magazines for the Nov. 6-10, 2013 Booksale. Donations may be dropped off at any of the library locations. For large pick ups of over 4 boxes, please call 750-5943. for more information, visit: www.wacofriendsofthelibrary.org. (Posted March 14, 2013)
· Support the “Bike out Hunger” campaign – From April 22-27 Tim Randolph of the Waco Regional Baptist Association will be on a week-long bike ride from Houston to Arlington to raise awareness and funds for hunger ministries all across the state of Texas and raise money through the BGCT Hunger Offering. His goal is to enlist 1000 people who will donate $5 each towards a total of $5000. (That amounts to approximately one cent per mile of the ride.) Every year, the Waco Regional Baptist Association benefits from grants from this offering. Last year, we received $6000 to help start a food pantry in Hubbard and also to launch a food planning association in Marlin. Next year, we have requested $15,000 to extend hunger ministries through our WRBA churches to surround rural communities. For more information visit http://outhunger.org/events/2013-ride/. To sponsor Tim, click on “Sponsor an Entrant.” (Posted February 28, 2013)
Free admission!
· Almost time for Brazos Nights! – Brazos Nights is an award-winning free concert series that specializes in great music and family fun along the Brazos River. The concerts are held at Indian Spring Park in downtown Waco. The 2013 concerts will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 11 p.m. on April 12, May 3, June 7 and July 4. Here’s the website for more info: http://www.waco-texas.com/cms-brazos-nights/ . (Posted February 28, 2013)
· April 13 – Texas Vintage Base Ball Game – Time: 11:00am – 1:30pm, Location: SW Regional Little League – Norcross Stadium: 3700 South University Parks Drive, Waco. Come see the Texas Vintage Base Ball League play ball! Dressed in 1890s uniforms and playing by 1890s rules, this game will be a crowd pleaser. FREE to the public. Concessions will be available for purchase at affordable prices, or you can bring in your own coolers. Just like the Ballpark in Arlington, glass bottles are not allowed. Bleachers are available, but you might want to bring something to make them more comfortable. For further information and questions, please call the HWF office at 753-5166. <MORE>
· Coming together to Address Family Homelessness – The Family Housing Collaborative will be launching in August at the beginning of the Waco ISD school year. This program will work specifically with families that have a student enrolled in Waco ISD, where there are approximately 1,400 homeless students per year. The Family Housing Collaborative connects the school district, case management providers, housing organizations, and local churches to provide holistic support for participating families. To read more about this upcoming program, click here to check out the City of Waco Housing & Community Development Newsletter. (Posted March 21, 2013)
· Facebook Guide for Non-Profits – According to Central Texas New Media, the new Facebook nonprofit guide is out! The guide is a collection of best practices to help nonprofits / causes use Facebook and Instagram to tell their stories and connect with supporters. You can find the new best practice guide in our Nonprofit Resource Center, on Non-Profits on Facebook. Grab the new guide today and tell us what you think: Facebook Guide for Non-Profits. (Posted March 21, 2013)
· Downtown is booming! – Have you visited downtown lately? Prepare to be impressed. Check out this map of all the development that has gone on in downtown since 2007: Downtown Development. Want to keep up with what’s happening downtown? Here are two great websites: www.1000friendsofwaco.com and www.chisholmcrossing.com. (Posted March 21, 2013)
· Huge Group of Volunteers in need of Work - We have a group of 8,000+ youth coming to Waco Easter Weekend for a conference called Congresso! They are wanting to do any service projects that may be needed the afternoon of Friday March 29. We know this is Good Friday, but if you could use some help with spring cleaning, flyer distribution, gardening, etc. please let us know. This is a great opportunity to introduce these youth to Waco, your church/organization and potentially to service itself, while making some progress on a project. If you are interested in discussing this please contact Carole Meriwether (Carole_M...@baylor.edu ) at Baylor Spiritual Life. (Posted March 21, 2013)
· Interesting website for finding resources – www.unemploymentlifeline.com (Posted March 21, 2013)
· Road to Damascus Back to School Event – You can be a part! — Road to Damascus is currently coordinating our 2nd Back to School Event to be held on August 17, 2013 at Carver Park Church, 1020 Herring Ave, Waco, Texas. This event will be huge. Our goal is to provide information to the youth and their parents in the East Waco, Bellmead, and Lacy Lakeview areas. We plan to have live music, provide school uniforms, free food, school supplies, backpacks, fun activities for both youth and their parents and so much more. We are currently looking for sponsors to help assist with this event. If your organization would like to have a table at this event, please let us know by April 8 to reserve your spot. Don’t wait! Spots are filling up fast! For more information or to reserve a spot contact Mia Thomas at either 505-402-0199 or 254-548-9982 or by email at mialyn...@yahoo.com. <Sponsor Letter> <Sponsor Opportunities> (Posted March 15, 2013)
· Habitat Restore Recycles batteries and more – Did you know the Waco ReStore does more to help our community and our environment than accepting and selling donations? If you have old batteries including handheld tool batteries, cell phones, hearing aids, glasses, or printer cartridges, bring them here! The batteries and cartridges are responsibly recycled rather than leaking in a landfill, the glasses go to Lions Club International’s eye care program, the hearing aids go to the Heart of Texas Sertoma Club who use them to help local hearing impaired children, and the cell phones provide cell phones and minutes for service members stationed abroad. For more information call (254) 756-0131 or email Res...@Wacohabitat.org. (Posted March 14, 2013)
· No Guarantee: Spouses of US citizens and the Naturalization Process – Interesting story about a married couple in Waco. The husband is a US Citizen and his wife is a Legal Permanent Resident (she was undocumented when they married.) The story looks at the common misconception that marrying a US Citizen guarantees citizenship. In fact, Eloisa was denied US Citizenship in early February because she had previously misrepresented her immigration status. Here’s the link from KWBU: http://edge.baylor.edu/media/196206/196206-audio.mp3 . (Posted March 14, 2013)
· Art Exhibit: Understanding Disabilities through Children’s Art – February 23 at 10:00am until June 2 at 5:00pm. Mayborn Museum, 1300 s. University Parks Drive. This art exhibit consisting of thirteen pieces was produced by faculty and students of the Baylor School of Social Work with assistance from VSA Texas, The international Organization on Arts and Disability. The exhibit includes colorful and creative artwork from children around the state of Texas who live with mental, learning or physical challenges, such as ADHD, deafness, dyslexia and autism. Interactive elements in the exhibit include thought-provoking words by the artists as well as a discussion booklet for parents to use to discuss physical and mental health disabilities with their own children. Baylor School of Social Work hopes it creates an opportunity to decrease the stigma children that are differently abled experience. <MORE> (Posted March 14, 2013)
· Check it out – Act Locally Waco is now listed on Chisholm Crossing Volunteer page http://www.chisholmcrossing.com/volunteer/ (Posted March 7, 2013)
· Check it out – Look what’s up this month at Mission Waco – For Mission Waco March E-news, click here. (Posted March 7, 2013)
· Annual “No Need Among You” Conference Registration Now Open – Save the dates October 10-12! This year’s conference features Shane Claiborne, Dr. Rita Pierson, Scott Truex and some twenty-five workshop leaders who help Texas churches and organizations learn how to effectively create empowerment-based programs and skills that assist the poor and marginalized. Sponsored by eleven state-wide ministries, including World Vision, Buckner, Texas Baptists, Mission Waco/Mission World, Baylor School of Social Work, Crestview Church of Christ, Waco Baptist Regional Association, City Square, Austin Christian Fellowship, Perpetual Help Home, and Baptist University of the Americas, the Texas area affordable conference continues to grow. Registration and details are available online at www.nnay.org. (Posted March 7, 2013)
· Texas Hunger Initiative Mentioned in New Book – The new documentary A Place at the Table has recently come out about hunger in America. It has been accompanied with a book version of the documentary by the same name. THI is in the book version. Here is the link: A Place at the Table. (Posted March 7, 2013)
· Talitha Koum is on Pinterest – Are you u looking for fun ways to engage your little ones at home or in the classroom? Follow us on Pinterest! We’ve found a lot of neat ideas our students love! (Posted February 28, 2013)
· Spare Change Doesn’t Equal Real Change – The City of Waco Housing & Community Development department has been creating a campaign to eliminate panhandling in Waco. The first step in launching the panhandling campaign was the creation of a poster titled “Spare Change Doesn’t = Real Change: Know the Facts”. The purpose of this poster is to educate the public on the difference between homelessness and panhandling and on effective ways to promote real change. Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to pick up posters from the department to display in their establishments. Posters, as well as small resource cards to give to individuals panhandling, are available for a very small printing fee. For more information, call Teri Holtkamp at (254) 750-5965. (Posted February 28, 2013)
· Waco Technology Collaboration for Non-Profits – Need a refresher on mail merge? Want some tips on organizational file sharing? New to Excel but only need the basics? Check out the new Nonprofit Technology Manual. The manual, made available as a result of the Baylor MIS – Waco Foundation Technology Collaboration, is designed to serve as a resource for nonprofit staff and volunteers needing a quick reference point for all their “how to” questions. To learn more about the Collaboration and the other new and exciting tools being made available to support nonprofits as a result, click here: Technology Collaboration for Non-Profits. (Posted February 28, 2013)
· Junior League Now Accepting Applications for the 2013-2014 Provisional Project – Does your organization have an upcoming project where you could use a group of organized and dedicated volunteers? Every year, Junior League Provisional members work on a group project benefiting a local non-profit organization. Provisional members help to plan and implement projects involving 200-400 volunteer hours. For more information, please visit the Junior League of Waco website (www.jlwaco.org ) or email researchand...@juniorleaguewaco.org. Applications are due May 31, 2013. <Application> (Posted February 28, 2013)
· Reintegration Round table news – The Reintegration Roundtable has established five priorities: (1) Reduce recidivism (re-incarceration), (2) Provide pre-release counseling, (3) Increase public knowledge, (4) Increase employment of ex-offenders, (5) Link ex-offenders to resources/services. To follow the progress, “like” them on Facebook. For more information contact them by email at McLennanCount...@gmail.com. (Posted February 28, 2013)
· Check out What’s happening at Keep Waco Beautiful – Click here for upcoming events: Keep Waco Beautiful events. For more information visit the website: www.keepwacobeautiful.com. (Posted February 28, 2013)
· March 22– Homeless Coalition Meeting – The HOT Homeless Coalition meets monthly, usually on the third Friday of the month at 11:45. Member organization take turns providing lunch. If you would like to reserve a lunch, please email H.C....@hotmail.com with your RSVP by no later than 5:00 on the Tuesday before the Friday meeting. Meeting locations vary from month to month. For the most up to date information on meeting location please call, email or check the website: www.heartoftexashomeless.org/heart-of-texas-homeless-coalition-calendar-of-events/meeting-dates <2013 Calendar>
· March 22 – Providence Foundation 23rd Annual Champagne Luncheon and Style Show – Tickets go on sale March 1. For more information visit the website: www.providence.net and click on “Style show.”
· March 23 – The Waco Founders Lions Club Miniature Golf Tournament Fundraisers – Location: Waco Lions Park, 1716 N. 42nd St. An 18-hole tournament for putters of all ages will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $50 per four- person team, which includes golf and lunch. Individuals will be placed on teams. A tournament for adults will be from 6 to 10 p.m. Cost is $50 per team, which will include cocktails, heavy appetizers and prizes. Proceeds will benefit the Lions Project Fund Charity. For registration and sponsorship information, call 772-4340. <MORE>
· March 23 – Centex Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 2013 Women’s Conference and Health Fair – Need informationon immigration, medical, schools or business? Free Event for the Family. Guest Speaker Sophia Lachapelle. Free Lunch Provided by Walmart. Fashion show by Dress Barn. Bounce house and coloring area for the kids. Man Cave area for the men. 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Waco convention Center. Booths available – Call (254) 754-7111 for more information. <Flyer>
· March 23 – Bledsoe-Miller Easter Carnival – Bledsoe-Miller and Dewey Community Centers teamed up to bring youngsters a FREE, fun-filled Easter Carnival. From noon to 2:30 p.m. at Bledsoe-Miller Community Center at 300 martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Hunt eggs, play games, win great prizes. Face painting, pictures with the Easter Bunny, Inflatables, hot dogs, drinks and more. Egg hunt starts at 2 p.m. Call 750-8684 for more information.
· March 23 – South Waco Community Center Easter Egg Hunt – Join the fun as each age group hunts for eggs . Starting at 10 a.m. Easter baskets will be given away for prize eggs. For information on programs and events, call (254) 750-8650.
· March 23 – Affordable Housing Fair – 11:00am – 2:00pm at Carver Park Baptist Church, 1020 Herring Avenue. Learn how to buy your own home, what to do to fix the title to your family home, receive information on Down Payment Assistance programs, sign up for free financial literacy and homebuyer education classes and more! There will also be free food served at the event. It is sponsored by Waco Habitat for Humanity, Waco Community Development, City of Waco – Housing and Community Development, H.O.T. Legal Aid, Home Abstract and Title Company, and NeighborWorks Waco . For more information contact Britt Duke by email at br...@wacohabitat.org. <Flyer>
· March 23 & 24 – “Get Outdoors!” Sports Show and Safety Fair – Sponsored by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Twin Bridges Park on Lake Waco. Free. Disc golf, dog agility demonstrations, fly fishing, falconry demonstrations and other activities offered. Call 254-756-5359. Online: www.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/Waco
· March 25 – Marriage Equality Forum – The Social Action Team of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Waco (UUFW) will be hosting a Marriage Equality Forum at 6:30pm. UUFW is located at 4209 N. 27th Street, Waco. Speakers include David Schleicher, who will speak for a few minutes on the disparity in civil rights for same sex vs opposite sex couple. Several couples will speak about their civil unions/marriage. Our focus will be on highlighting what unites people as families and the similarities in daily experiences of all couples. We will discuss the many hoops that gay and lesbian partners have to jump through and the civil benefits they do not share with heterosexual couples. For more information, please contact Carmen Saenz carmen....@gmail.com for more information about UUFW go to: www.uuwaco.org. <Press Release>
· March 26 – Race: The Power of an Illusion – The Community Race Relations Coalition is sponsoring a showing of the acclaimed film RACE: The Power of an Illusion in the brand-new meeting room at the Waco-McLennan County Central Public Library, 1717 Austin Avenue, 6:00 to 8:30pm. This is a three-part film, and the first two parts will be shown on Tuesday, March 19th, with short discussions between each segment. The third part will be shown Tuesday, March 26, with a longer discussion following. These two events are free and open to all, but YOU MUST RESERVE A SPACE by calling 836-4599 or emailing Jowe...@egm-tech.com. Movie snacks will be provided. Please call 836-4599 with any questions. <FLYER>
· March 26 – Credit workshop – The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in McLennan County presents a Rebuilding Your Credit Workshop from 6 to 7:30 p.m. March 26 at the McLennan County Extension Office, 420 N. Sixth St. Cost is $10. The registration deadline is March 25. To register or for more information, call 757-5180 or email mclen...@tamu.edu. <MORE>
· March 26 – NAMI Support group – NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Waco Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. March 26 in Classroom 1 at Providence Hospital, 6901 Medical Parkway. The group provides support, education, advocacy and information to family members and friends of those suffering with severe mental illness. For more information, call 297-7107.
· March 28 – Waco Habitat Application Orientation (English) – Waco Habitat for Humanity makes home ownership possible for low-income persons in need of affordable housing. Applications are available only by attending a community application orientation meeting. 7 PM, Waco Habitat for Humanity office at 220 N 11 Street, Waco. <MORE>
· March 28 – Deadline for artists submissions for the Second Annual Art on Elm Avenue — Show us what you got! Have questions? Contact us! http://artonelmavenue.com/
· March 28 – Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes: Diabetes Self-Management Class – The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in McLennan County and the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District are hosting a “Do Well, Be Well With Diabetes” self-management series For persons with pre-diabetes, diabetes and their family members. Five Thursday sessions starting Mach 28. From 5:30 P.M – 8:30 P.M. FREE, but you must pre-register. Classes fill up quickly, so to pre-register, call the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service at 757-5180,or e-mail at mclen...@tamu.edu <MORE>
· March 28 – Pancake Breakfast with Christian Men’s Job Corps – 6:45 – 7:45, Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, 1300 Columbus Avenue, Waco. Join us for a time of partnership and testimony with our special guest speaker and record-breaking quarterback, Nick Florence. RSVP 254-405-3764 or email to cmjc...@gmail.com. <MORE>
· March 31 – Texas Baptist Hunger Offering 5th Sunday – People with physical challenges in India are alienated and looked down upon. With help from the Texas Baptist Hunger Offering, ProVision Asia helps people discover what it means for each person to be made in the image of God. Make a Donation online or send offerings to:Texas Baptist Hunger Offering/BGCT, 333 N. Washington, Dallas, TX 75246, For further details please contact:Joyce Gilbreath, Specialist Texas Baptist Hunger Offering/BGCT , Christian Life Commission, 214-828-5172, cell 214-228-3518. <Video>
· April 1 – Town Hall with U.S. Rep. Bill Flores – Topics will include the federal budget, job creation and other issues. When: 6-8 p.m. Where: Texas State Technical College, John B. Connally Technology Center Auditorium, 3801 Campus Drive, Waco (located at the main entrance of campus on the corner of Crest and Campus drives) <MORE>
· April 2 – Fashion with a Passion Style Show benefitting Mission Waco – With beautiful clothing from Amelia’s Fashion Excange, Collage Boutique and CABi, our guests will watch local models display a variety of Spring clothing. Food provided by Bestyett Catering. Besides hundreds of Fair Trade items, there will be $10 “clothespin prizes” and a silent auction. Money raised will help Mission Waco children attend camp. Time: 11:30 – 1:00 (Silent Auction begins at 11:00), Location: Phoenix Ballroom, 401 S. 3rd Street, Waco. Cost: $35 per person $280/table of 8 guests For reservations call 254-753-4900 X 230.
· April 3 thru 6 – Beall Poetry Festival – Join Baylor University for a four-day celebration of some of the finest contemporary poets, with readings, a panel discussion and the Virginia Beall Ball Lecture on Contemporary Poetry. The event will take place in Kayser Auditorium and Carroll Science Hall. <MORE>
· April 6 – The RED program – Time & Place: Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center, 9am-2pm. The RED Program is a free, one day class that empowers teens (14-20) and their parents to drive safe, secure, and sober. Includes discussion-based sessions and a hospital tour! The program also counts for 8 hours of community service. Contact Tori Lineberry at (254) 202-6531 or tline...@hillcrest.net for more information!
· April 6 – Crawfish Boil and Crawfish Crawl – The hills are steep and the Cajun cuisine is hot on April 6th at McLennan Community College (Bosque River Stage) located at 1400 College Drive, Waco TX 76708. 1K fun run begins at 8:15 am, 5k Crawfish Crawl at 8:30am (age group winners receive an award), and the Crawfish Boil begins 10 am until 2 pm. Great Cajun food, family fun, cake walk, and more. Proceeds benefit MCC student organizations. <FLYER> <MORE>
· April 6 – Girl’s Day 2013 at Doris Miller Family Y – For girls 9 & up, Theme: Beautiful Inside & Out. Featuring games, pampering, etiquette, goal setting, self-esteem builders, fun, food and prizes! Only $5 per girl! For more information contact CaSaundra by phone at 254-752-1605 or by email at casaundr...@ymcactx.org <MORE>
· April 6 – Spring Farm Day – Join us at World Hunger Relief, Inc. for our Spring Farm Day 2013! Saturday, April 6th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free activities for the whole family, with farm-fresh food available for purchase. We will also hold our 2nd annual Ride for Relief fundraising bike ride. Visit our website for more details: www.worldhungerrelief.org . Questions? Contact in...@worldhungerrelief.org or 254-799-5611.
· April 6 – Ride for Relief 5K Bike Ride – You and your friends and family are invited to create a team and join in a 5K (3.1 mile) bike ride to help raise support for our work in alleviating hunger. Families or teams will create their own webpage to help spread the word about their efforts to support WHRI’s work to alleviate hunger here and around the world. Questions? Call 254-799-5611. <MORE>
· April 6 – The “New Year, New You” Wellness Journey Reveal party – 2-3 p.m. JC Penney’s Court in the Richalnd Mall. Join the Live Well Waco team as they reveal the before and after transformations of the New Year, New You “Super 6” wellness challenge contestants. Read the contestant’s inspiring stores and follow their progress at www.LiveWellWaco.owrdpress.com. For more information, call 750-5439 or visit www.liveWellWaco.com.
· April 6 – Boots on the Brazos fundraiser for The Arc of McLennan County- 7 to 11:30 p.m. April 6 in the Brazos Room at the Waco Convention Center, 100 Washington Ave. Tickets cost $90. Table sponsorships also are available. Proceeds will be used to support The Arc’s after-school and summer day camp for children with special needs and autism. For tickets or more information, call 756-7491.
· April 6 – FREE Homebuyer Education Workshop – NeighborWorks Waco will be hosting a FREE Homebuyer Education Workshop on from 9AM – 5PM at Toliver Chapel Baptist Church located at 1402 Elm Ave. The event is free and open to the public and will have complimentary breakfast and lunch for all who attend. There will also be raffle drawings for gift cards from various local restaurants. (*must be present to win prizes.) Please RSVP by April 4th at (254) 752-1647 or hjen...@nw-waco.org. See you there! <FLYER>
· April 6 – Boys 2 Men Conference – Bledsoe –Miller Community Center, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Young men ages 10 – 17 will have the opportunity to learn about life on this fun day that will combine fun activities and words of wisdom from local business men and community leaders who represent positive role models. The event is free, and breakfast and lunch will be provided. For more information, call 750-8684.
· April 7 – 2013 Walk for Autism – April is Autism Awareness Month in the United States, and April 2 has been declared World Autism Awareness Day by the United Nations. On that same day, Mayor Malcolm Duncan and the City Council will proclaim April as Autism Awareness Month in Waco. To “kick off” (please pardon the pun!) Autism Awareness Month, we’re having our annual Walk for Autism at Baylor University’s Fountain Mall from 2-5 pm. More than a typical “Walk”, it’s more like a festival: family-friendly, with music, lots of games and activity booths for kids of all ages, and a Resource Fair with area agencies and providers that serve families affected by autism. We’re walking to raise awareness and funds, and to celebrate the potential of our kids/youth/adults and their families … we’re walking on that one day in support of all those who walk with autism every day of their lives. For more information contact waco...@gmail.com or visit www.hotautismnetwork.org
· April 11 – McLennan County Hunger Coalition meeting. All meetings will be held at Caritas of Waco 300 South 15th Street every second Thursday of each month starting at 11:45am. Memberships open to all individuals and agencies during the year. For more information please visit the website: www.mclennanhunger.org Any questions please contact Esther Morales at foodou...@grandecom.net or 254-753-3545. <2013 Calendar>
· April 11 – Casa, Cupcakes & Coffee – An informal informational event where you can learn how to get involved with CASA. CASA of McLennan and Hill Counties recruits, trains and empowers everyday community members to advocate for abused and neglected children in faster care. CASA volunteers are people like you. They’re teachers, business people, retirees, stay at home moms, grandparents, college students. Come learn more. Join us for cupcakes! 5:30 – 6:30, 2223 Austin Ave, Suite D. For more information contact Mindi Masten at 254-304-7982. <MORE>
· April 12 – Save the date: Elder Care Forum – Presented by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Topics will include Stress and the Brain, Insurance and Medicare, Housing Options, Nutrition and Aging, Legal Issues among others. CEUs available. <Brochure and Registration>
· April 12 – End Bullying in Schools Event – Time: 5-9 p.m. Location: South Waco Recreation Center, 2815 Speight, Waco. Join us for this family fun event as we bring awareness to an issue affecting children in schools nationwide, including our very own community. Lots of activities for kids: basketball tournament, soccer game, softball tips, budget fashion show, kickball, self-defense presentation, bullying video followed by Q&A, Zumba Presentation. For more information contact your host, Edwardo Moreno by phone at 254-498-9448 or by email at edwar...@yahoo.com. <FLYER>
· April 13 – Baylor Steppin’ Out – Steppin’ Out is a day of service where Baylor students help individuals, churches, and agencies with yard work, cleaning, trash pick-up, and more! The Spring event will take place on April 13 from 11 – 3pm with a following community-wide Block Party at Dewey Park from 2-5pm. If you or somebody you know would like help with these tasks, register at http://www.baylor.edu/engage/ or call 254.710.3199. If your organization could use some help, contact Randall Fowler by email at Randall...@baylor.edu.
· April 13 – March of Dimes’ Heart of Texas March for Babies on Saturday – The event brings together community members from Waco, Temple, and Killeen to walk and raise money to support lifesaving research and programs to save babies born prematurely or with birth defects. March for Babies has raised an incredible $2.6 million since 1970, with more than 7 million people around the nation who participate, donate, and/or sponsor. Time: 9:00AM, Registration Time: 8:00AM. Location: Governor Bill and Vara Daniels Historic Village, Mayborn Museum – Baylor University, 1300 South University Parks Drive, Waco, TX. Sign up free of charge at www.MarchForBabies.org – walk as an individual or as part of a team. For more information, call (254) 741-1025 or email BGossS...@marchofdimes.com.
· April 13 – Keep Waco Beautiful Neighborhood Cleanup Day – Keep Waco Beautiful’s Spring Neighborhood Cleanup Day is scheduled for Saturday, April 13th. Local Neighborhood Associations are encouraged to host cleanups that day! Requests for roll-offs and supplies, including gloves and trash bags can be made to Keep Waco Beautiful by calling 750-5728 or emailing sherr...@aol.com by April 5th. Baylor Steppin’ Out will have students available to assist in neighborhood efforts from 10am – 3pm. Neighborhood Associations should register volunteer needs for student workers online at http://www.baylor.edu/engage/index.php?id=86535 . No active Neighborhood Association in your Waco neighborhood? Contact Keep Waco Beautiful for help planning your local cleanup! For more information visit the website: www.keepwacobeautiful.com and click on “News & Events.”
· April 13 – Citizens on Patrol Training Session – The next Citizens on Patrol Training Session begins on April 13. The training will be from 8 a.m. to noon in the training room at the Waco Police Departmetn (721 N. 4th street). The deadline for applications is April 5. Citizens on Patrol is a community policing program sponsored by the Waco Police Department. The purpose of the program is to enlist private citizens to volunteer time to actively patrol their communities, to listen, watch and report suspicious and/or criminal activity to the appropriate authorities. Citizens will be provided with training, equipment and identification. Fill out the online application at www.waco-texas.com/police. Contact WPD’s Community Outreach for information at 750-1761.
· April 13 – Art On Elm Avenue – 10 AM – 3PM at the Corner of Elm Ave. and Dallas St. A special art exhibition and community event featuring local artists, musicians, children’s activities and craft & food vendors. WE NEED YOU! Are you a local artist? Are you interested in setting up a vendor booth for your handmade craft/retail materials, food and more? We will also be accepting submissions for a limited, juried student exhibition space. Students must be enrolled in 9th-12th grade within Waco ISD to enter. A community collaborative event brought to you by NeighborWorks Waco. For more information visit us at www.artonelmavenue.com or on facebook at www.facebook.com/artonelmavenue. <FLYER>
· April 13 – Big Brother’s Big Sister’s Bowl for Kid’s Sake – Start Something today! Partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters through Bowl for Kids’ Sake makes a positive, long-lasting impact on children in your community. Whether you start a team, become a corporate sponsor or make a donation, your efforts ensure that more Bigs and Littles can be paired up, more friendships can begin and improved outlooks on life can be started. For more information call 888-887-BIGS. <MORE>
· April 13 – One by One Mentor Training – Interested in mentoring a new or expectant mom? – We NEED you…to meet with a mom one-on-one, scrapbook for new baby, and be a friend! Saturday, 9-4pm, April 13th , One by One Ministries Mentor Training at Care Net Pregnancy Center, 4700 W. Waco Drive. Email la...@carenetofcentraltexas.org or call 254.772.8270 to sign up today!
· April 16 – Talitha Koum’s 10th Birthday Party! – Join us from 4:00 to 5:30pm for a Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting in celebration of ten years of community support and Talitha Koum’s recent facility enhancements. Bring your families for an interactive open house with fun activities, birthday cake and refreshments! Facility located at the corner of 13th and Clay at 1311 Clay Avenue. For more information email Lauren Serafy at lse...@talithakoum.org. <MORE>
· April 18 – Nonprofit Network: Behavior-Based Interview Techniques – 8:00 am, Texas Life Annex, 1000 Washington Avenue , Waco. The Nonprofit Network is a monthly gathering of area nonprofit agencies. The FREE meetings, which are hosted by The Cooper Foundation, provide an opportunity for networking, peer learning and capacity building. RSVP’s are appreciated! To do so, please contact Karen Aho at the Cooper Foundation at ka...@cooperfdn.org.
· April 18 – thIncspace grand opening – 3:45-5,801 Washington Ave Suite #100. The Greater Waco Chamber of commerce and its partners have developed thInc Space. Located on the first floor of 801 Washington Avenue in downtown Waco thInc Space is part incubator, part community gathering place, and part professional support network for creative start-ups. thInc Space will also be new headquarters for the Baylor Accelerated Ventures program and AV businesses. Additionally, the Chamber and its partners are actively looking for creative start-up business in this community and others to grow and prosper from idea to reality in thInc Space. <MORE>
· April 19 – 17th Annual Central Texas One Day Conference, “Moving Forward: Effective Ways to Reach Our Youth” hosted by Youth Connection, Inc. – Place: McLennan Community College Conference Center, 4601 North 19th Street, Waco, Texas. Cost: $75 ($20 student fee with current Student ID) covers conference fee, lunch and program materials. This conference will feature several speakers including Dr. Ray Guarendi, a father, and clinical psychologist who specializes in parenting and childhood problems. He has been a guest on numerous national, regional and local television and radio shows…in over 40 states and in Canada including four appearances on OPRAH. CE Credits will be available for an additional charge of $10. This conference is approved for social workers, licensed professional counselors, nurses, psychologists and any other group that will accept this conference as CE for that individual. For more information contact Carolyn Nichols by email at CNIC...@hillcrest.net or by phone at 254-202-8480. <MORE>
· April 20 – LIFT Workshop for Low Income Families in Transition – 9:00am – 2:00 pm, in the Fellowship Hall of First Baptist Church of Waco at 5th and Clay (Waco Transit, Route 9). Free child care will be provided. Over 40 agencies plus TSTC, MCC, career counselors, and family budgeting friends will be present to help families. Each attendee will be paired with an advocate to evaluate the attendee’s needs, to walk alongside the attendee, and to develop a plan to help the attendee achieve economic viability and self sufficiency goals. Would you like to be an advocate? E-mail Julie Covington at Julie_c...@baylor.edu. We encourage anyone who has relationship with a family in crisis to invite and walk alongside that family at the workshop as an advocate. <Flyer – English> <Flyer – Spanish> <bookmark>
· April 21 – Hispanic Heritage Festival – 2 to 6 p.m. at McLennan Community College’s Bosque River Stage. Free, but donations accepted for the Hispanic Student Scholarship Fund. Call 299-8668 or email mma...@mclennan.edu . Oline: http://www.mclennan.edu/news/806.html
· April 22 – Central Texas Million March against Child Abuse – On April 22 Americans in over 200 cities and 50 states will gather to raise awareness against child abuse and crimes against our children. For more information contact Mark Miller by phone at 254-292-2316 or email at tere...@aol.com. <MORE>
· April 25 – CRRC Quarterly Meeting: Talking to Kids about Race – Time: 5:30 to 7:30pm, Location: St. Alban’s parish hall, 305 N. 30th Street (park in lot on 29th and Columbus and the parish hall is right there). The program will be presentations from three different families on ideas and experiences with discussing race with children and youth and in teaching young people to treasure and appreciate the oneness of the human race. Dinner is provided by the CRRC board, with donations accepted. This event is open to everyone, but YOU MUST RESERVE A SPACE by calling 836-4599 or emailing Jowe...@egm-tech.com. <FLYER>
· April 23 – Meals & Wheels Volunteer Recognition event – 1:00 – 3:00 pm, Meals & Wheels will be hosting its Volunteer Recognition Event at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. All Meals & Wheels volunteers are invited to attend. Call 752-0316 for information.
· April 25 – Waco Habitat Application Orientation (English) – Waco Habitat for Humanity makes home ownership possible for low-income persons in need of affordable housing. Applications are available only by attending a community application orientation meeting. 7 PM, Waco Habitat for Humanity office at 220 N 11 Street, Waco. <MORE>
· April 26 – Waco Community Development’s 8th Annual Golf Scramble – Join us again at the Cottonwood Creek Golf Course to support Waco Community Development. Executive Director, Mike Stone, and his staff go above and beyond to help make this tournament a success. All proceeds go to benefit the work they are doing in the Near North Waco Community. <MORE>
· April 27 – The Human Race Waco, benefitting Care Net – Big fun at Cameron Park! 5K fun run / fund raiser, Dry Tri ( 5K run 3K paddle +-10 K bike on paved road ), Sprint Adventure Race – Extreme (6K run, 5K paddle, 15K mountain Bike) Sprint Adventure Race ( shorter length easeir 5k 3k 10k ). For more information visit the website: http://www.humanracewaco.com/.
· April 27 – Child Care Provider Conference. Brought to you by the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension. More details coming soon!
· April 27 – The Second Annual Waco Stiletto Stampede – 10 a.m. at Heritage Square! The Stampede will benefit our Central Texas Affiliate. Registration opens on Feb. 28 which includes a race shirt, a goodie bag from Stiletto Stampede! For more information, visit www.stilettostampede.org.
· April 27 – Donkey Dash 5K and One Mile Walk/Run- American Cancer Society – Time & Place: MCC’s Highlander Ranch 8:00 a.m. – Join us at the beautiful Highlander horse ranch to run or walk either the 5K or the one mile. Put together a Team with your friends, your coworkers, your family and run/walk in honor of someone who has fought the fight with cancer or in honor of someone who has lost that same battle. Celebrate with breakfast tacos and beverages while cheering on other participants. Your finish line will be through a corral of precious miniature donkeys. On the Web: http://www.active.com/5k-race/waco-tx/donkey-dash-5k-and-one-mile-fun-run-walk-2013
· April 27 – Healthy Kids Day 2013 – Doris Miller Family Y Invites you to come be part of Healthy Kids Day 2013. For more information, contact casaundr...@ymcactx.org, or call 752-1605. <MORE>
· April 28 – Join the Pride – The Waco Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, Cameron park Zoo, and more than 20 state and local organizations have joined together to help raise awareness about the special abilities of people with disabilities. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can attend presentations and get information from the various organizations that serve people with disabilities. For more information call (254) 750-8400 or visit the Zoo Upcoming Events Website.
· April 29 thru May 7 – Early Voting for city of Waco May 11 election – Voting hours will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 29 through May 3. Extended hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 4, 6 & 7. Positions on the city of Waco ballot include: City Council Districts II, IV and V. Main early voting site: McLennan County Elections Adminstration Office Records Building, 214 North Fourth Street, Suite 300, Waco, Texas 76701. Voter registration applications available at City Secretary’s office in City Hall, Waco-McLennan County Libraries, Dept. of Public Safety Office, and the McLennan County Elections Office. For more information, call the city Secretary’s Office at 750-5750 or visit http://www.waco-texas.com/elections.asp.
· April 29 – Act locally Waco Book Club – We will be discussing The Death and Life of the Great American School System: How Testing and Choice Are Undermining Education by Diane Ravitch. The Barnes and Noble website says: “A passionate plea to preserve and renew public education, The Death and Life of the Great American School System is a radical change of heart from one of America’s best-known education experts. Diane Ravitch—former assistant secretary of education and a leader in the drive to create a national curriculum—examines her career in education reform and repudiates positions that she once staunchly advocated. She shows conclusively why the business model is not an appropriate way to improve schools. Using examples from major cities like New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, Denver, and San Diego, Ravitch makes the case that public education today is in peril.” Whether you agree or not, it’s always a great conversation. Join us! For more information RSVP to Ashley_...@baylor.edu.
(All “In the News” articles are from the Waco Trib unless otherwise noted.)
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