Houston Collaborative

TFWI Houston

In the heart of Houston, Texas, Two organizations—8 Million Stories and Stella’s Way—have united under the banner of the Texas Family Wellbeing Initiative, dedicated to enhancing the lives of families in the local community. Each organization brings its unique expertise and resources to the collaborative, working in tandem to address various aspects of family wellbeing.

Eight Million Stories Inc.

Eight Million Stories Inc.: Committed to reconnecting disconnected youth and young adults with education and employment opportunities, providing vocational training, job readiness workshops, and internships.

The Problem

Young people, especially young men of color, are disappearing—from schools, from communities and from the workforce. Rooted and fueled by zero tolerance policies in our school systems, the school-to-prison pipeline is sweeping disproportionately high numbers of youth/young adults into the criminal justice system and ultimately out of our workforce.

In Houston, 111,000 individuals are categorized as opportunity youth (out of work and school). The obstacles faced supporting Opportunity Youth in finding pathways to success can be a complex challenge. They lack the exposure and equitable opportunities to transition into career pathways. There is a critical need for communities to provide pathways to opportunity for this population through formal training program that develops the soft and hard skills that are critical to their successful transition into adulthood. For many, this persistent problem, is the start of a lifelong cycle of poverty and imprisonment.

The Impact

At its core, the organization focuses on several key areas: literacy, personal development, and community engagement. One of the most notable aspects of Eight Million Stories is its dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and identity within the community. Through its various storytelling projects, the organization has created spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can come together, share their experiences, and learn from one another. This collaborative environment has not only helped individuals develop their own voices but has also strengthened the fabric of the community by promoting mutual understanding and empathy.

The impact of Eight Million Stories extends beyond the individuals it directly serves. By highlighting personal stories and experiences, the organization has brought attention to important social issues and catalyzed community conversations around topics such as social justice, mental health, and economic inequality. These discussions have led to increased awareness and advocacy, contributing to positive social change and reinforcing the importance of inclusive dialogue.

Stella’s Way

Stella’s Way, a community-led initiative, was established in 2021 within the vibrant neighborhood of Fifth Ward in Houston, Texas. The organization was co-founded by Latricia St. Jules and Gaylin Johnson, who shared a common vision of fostering unity and addressing the pressing needs of their community. With a strong commitment to grassroots efforts, Stella’s Way embarked on their mission to create positive change.

Mission Statement

Stella’s Way provides a holistic approach to empower and uplift communities of color in underserved communities. We are dedicated to addressing the unique needs and barriers, while fostering a comprehensive and inclusive environment that promotes social, economic, and educational well-being

What We Do

Stella’s Way hosts food drives at the community fridge, offers mutual aid support for families and individuals, provides educational and creative outlets for the community, and builds connections with neighbors through fellowship and community organizing.

The Impact

Stella’s Way has made a significant impact on the local community through its focused efforts on providing support, resources, and advocacy for those affected by domestic violence. The organization’s approach is multifaceted, addressing both immediate needs and long-term recovery for survivors.

At the heart of Stella’s Way’s impact is its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of survivors of domestic violence. The organization offers a range of services, including emergency shelter, crisis counseling, and legal advocacy. By providing a safe haven and essential resources, Stella’s Way plays a crucial role in helping individuals escape abusive situations and begin the healing process.

Solutions Provided

  • Eight Million Stories Inc. provides vocational training programs, job readiness workshops, and internships to disconnected youth, enabling them to secure meaningful employment.

  • Eight Million Stories facilitate college and career exploration initiatives, providing guidance on admissions, financial aid, and career pathways for disconnected youth.

  • Stella's Way addresses food insecurity by operating a community fridge at J&J Lounge, offering fresh and non-perishable food items, along with financial assistance to promote stability within the community.

  • Stella's Way provides comprehensive clothing assistance to families in need within the Fifth Ward neighborhood, including school uniforms, everyday wear, and winter clothing

  • All participating organizations engage in policy change and advocacy efforts to address systemic barriers to wellbeing and promote equity and social justice in Houston's vulnerable communities.