Where are they now? The Crucial Role of Investing in Community Leadership Development

LISC Houston’s Training for Trainers (T4T) program is designed for community members with a passion for grassroots leadership and a commitment to fostering robust, healthy communities. The impact of community leaders on the development of a neighborhood cannot be overstated, and the T4T program is playing a pivotal role in harnessing and enhancing their potential. The T4T program is tailored for emerging leaders, residents actively involved in community building, and individuals working for organizations dedicated to community development. What sets T4T apart is its emphasis on not only imparting knowledge but also making a commitment to teach others after completing the program. Participants in the T4T program have a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through shared experiences and collaborative learning, the program facilitates the creation of a network of community leaders committed to driving positive change.

The impact of T4T extends beyond the program itself. Graduates, armed with enhanced leadership skills and a deepened understanding of community development, go on to become agents of change in their respective neighborhoods. By committing to teach others, they create a ripple effect, creating a culture of leadership that permeates the community. Community leaders are the backbone of any thriving neighborhood. They serve as advocates, problem solvers, and catalysts for collective impact. Their ability to mobilize resources, galvanize community members, and drive collaborative efforts is instrumental in shaping the future of their locality. 

As we celebrate the success of the T4T program in Houston, it continues to serve as a reminder of the indispensable role that community leaders play in the overall development of a neighborhood. The call to action is clear - support, nurture, and empower these leaders who are at the forefront of building stronger, healthier communities. By investing in the potential of community leaders, we invest in the sustainable growth and prosperity of our neighborhoods. 

As part of LISC’s HBCU Internship program, a program designed to build a diverse talent pipeline for CDFIs, LISC Houston had the absolute privilege of hosting Kayla Alford as our local intern. Kayla worked directly with the T4T program and interviewed a few of our ambassadors.  We are thrilled to share these exclusive interviews and insights from our ambassadors. Their stories serve as a testament to the profound impact of the T4T program and the spirit of community leaders committed to making a lasting difference. For more information, contact Carolyn Andrews, candrews@lisc.org.   

MEET RAIN EATMON:
FOUNDER, CEO, ACRES HOMES COMMUNITY ADVOCACY GROUP  
CULTIVATING CHANGE AND UNITY IN ACRES HOME  

In the thriving community of Acres Homes, Houston, Rain Eatmon stands as a beacon of change, fostering unity and empowerment. Having called Acres Homes home since she was seven years old, Rain's journey into community service began post-graduation with a vision to host a music festival. This endeavor caught the attention of a state representative and propelled Rain into a trajectory of impactful community involvement. Reflecting on a pivotal moment during her middle and high school years, Rain recalls the profound impact of piano lessons sponsored by her mother and grandfather, instilling in her a resolve to ensure that every individual in Acres Homes had access to similar opportunities. 

Shifting her focus from entertainment-centric programs to addressing immediate community needs, Rain has actively engaged in empowering residents through initiatives such as the Acres Homes Health Action Team and the Environmental Justice Survey. Drawing from her experience in the T4T program, Rain emphasizes the crucial lesson of being aware of available resources to tell the story of community needs effectively. The program also equipped her with a deeper understanding of her surroundings, enabling Rain to contribute to the community with greater insight. 

Despite challenges in visibility for teens and young adults within the community, Rain has adeptly utilized platforms like Instagram and newsletters to bridge the generational gap. Looking forward, she envisions a return to Acres Homes’ self-reliant roots and a strategic partnership with LISC to empower residents and shape the community's destiny.  

Memorable events orchestrated by Rain, such as the Community Kickback that celebrates National Voter Registration Day and The Garden City Back to School Re-Up serve as tangible expressions of her commitment to fostering a sense of connection and community in Acres Homes. 

Rain Eatmon's journey is a testament to the transformative power of community engagement and collaboration. Her emphasis on being aware of available resources and understanding her surroundings better exemplifies a nuanced approach to community development. As Acres Homes continues to thrive under her guidance, Rain Eatmon's dedication shines as a beacon of hope for communities seeking positive change through unity and awareness. 

Rain Eatmon's journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of community engagement and collaboration, exemplifying the positive change that can be achieved when communities unite for a common cause.

​​MEET REV. JASON MORENO:
PASTOR, CHRIST MEMORIAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
COMMUNITY CATALYST: BRIDGING GAPS AND FOSTERING GROWTH​ 

n the heart of community development stands Jason Moreno, an unsung hero, a leader dedicated to creating positive change in Harris County, Houston. With a rich background in seminary and a focus on ministry, this community advocate has spent the last 10-12 years dedicated to long-term solutions beyond the confines of the church. Connecting deeply with the community during the challenges of the Covid era, he found his calling at Christ Memorial Lutheran Church. In an exclusive interview, he shares insights into his journey and the impactful projects that have shaped his mission. 

Developing the Harris County Community Land Trust, a project selling homes to those who couldn't afford typical homeownership, stands out among the initiatives that have made a tangible difference. However, the path to community betterment is not without challenges. Navigating complex political landscapes, funding restrictions, and egos outside his department required cultivating friendships and understanding surroundings.

Looking to the future, Jason envisions a community thriving on collaboration and engagement. He underscores the importance of identifying strengths rather than weaknesses, a lesson learned from the T4T program. The program also emphasized the power of working together with stakeholders to initiate positive change without waiting for external prompts.
When asked about community engagement, Jason highlights the significance of gathering feedback from individuals and local stakeholders. Overcoming challenges often involves hosting events with games or other fun activities that combine local culture with stakeholder input.

Reflecting on memorable events, he points to a trunk-or-treat function at the church where local safety groups participated, fostering a sense of community and connection. Another deeply moving moment was at a transitional living facility for families escaping domestic violence, where teaching a child to throw a frisbee became a profound symbol of making a positive impact.

Speaking on collaboration with LISC, he stresses the importance of working with both LISC and H-GAC in developing community plans. LISC's partnership, especially with precinct offices, has proven vital in furthering his mission. Many members of the T4T program, also actively involved in their respective churches, now view community work with a deeper understanding, thanks to the collaborative efforts with LISC.

In Harris County, this community leader continues to break barriers, weaving a narrative of empowerment, collaboration, and sustained growth. As the journey unfolds, the impact of this local leader's commitment becomes increasingly evident, underscoring the transformative power of community engagement and collaboration.

Meet SHIRLEY RONQUILLO: 
Principal Consultant, Ronquillo Consulting Group, LLC 

In a recent interview, Shirley Ronquillo, a dedicated resident of East Aldine, shared her impactful journey into community service. Inspired by her parents' compassion and empathy for others, Shirley became actively involved in helping the community in 2017 when drug-related issues arose near her sister's house. She also shared that she learned to speak up against inequities and injustices from an early age by observing her environment. At the early age of four she recognized and even had to address the issue of language access. Shirley's commitment to community empowerment led her to initiate leadership workshops and discover the transformative potential of LISC.  

Shirley's involvement in various projects has left a lasting mark in the Greater Northside. From addressing poor street development after a tragic incident near Sherman Elementary to tackling health inequities during the COVID-19 pandemic, she spearheaded initiatives like the Covid Health Kits project and Mental Health awareness through poetry writing sessions in the Greater Northside and East Aldine. 

Shirley's approach centers on genuine listening. She states, "When you address concerns that residents actually have, the more residents will get involved." By prioritizing the voices of the community, she ensures that initiatives align with the genuine needs and aspirations of residents. 

Despite challenges with elected officials and funding constraints, Shirley emphasizes the importance of listening to residents and addressing their concerns directly. For her, community engagement is about building consensus and allowing residents to lead initiatives.

One memorable event for Shirley was the Little Free Libraries Project in collaboration with the Looscan Elementary community. Residents, from babies to adults, actively participated in decorating and personalizing these libraries, fostering a sense of ownership and community pride.

Reflecting on her participation in the T4T program, Shirley highlights the invaluable lesson of listening without an immediate response. This skill has not only strengthened her relationships with residents but has also empowered them to lead initiatives confidently.

The collaboration between Shirley's organization and LISC has been instrumental in progress. Through Go Neighborhood grants, residents have taken the lead in projects, voicing concerns, and making a meaningful impact on the community. Shirley Ronquillo continues to be a beacon of positive change, making Greater Northside a better place for everyone, from the youngest contributors to seasoned residents.