The fourth presenter to the class was Allen Smith who is the Director of Southeast Fort Worth Inc. Allen has a degree in Civil Engineering and a Masters in Structural Design. He has the very busy and daunting job of getting developers interested in the SE Fort Worth Area.
According Southeast Fort Worth, Inc.'s website, the Vision for the company is to make the area "a great place to live, learn, work, play, invest, do business and shop." They are a non-profit organization that works to facilitate economic development in the Southeast are of Fort Worth. They also assist in community education endeavors to build a stronger future for the city.
Now, if you've ever lived in Fort Worth you've probably driven through this area and have noticed it's pretty empty. This is something that Allen Smith is working to change. He has worked tirelessly to entice private companies, government agencies, and other community non-profits to invest time and money in SE Fort Worth to create a more positive and sustainable living space for the residents.
A recent breakthrough happened when a WalMart was built in SE Fort Worth at the new Renaissance Square. The new business was a very welcome addition to the development at East Berry Street and Hwy 287. This was just the first part of a redevelopment project that has had a significant impact on those who work and live in the area. Another great success story that has come from partnering with the community is the Uplift education project. According to the Fort Worth Uplift Education Center website, Uplift schools are outperforming all other public education systems with 4 out of 5 districts rated Exemplary by the Texas Education Agency. Currently, there is a 100% graduation rate from this high school and 80% of those go on to a 4 year degree. This is a fantastic accomplishment for the community and for the state as a whole. It is Mr. Smith's hope that more investments will become available so that more of these schools can be built all over the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
Mr. Smith was very forthright when he presented to the class and stated that his job is not an easy one. Getting investors interested in this side of town has been a long a difficult road that has been traveled by many, even before he took this role. To perform his job his immediate goal is to obtain some federal and state grants to assist in the funding of housing repair, new business development, and new community centers. He stated that everyone can take part in assisting his efforts either through volunteering or writing to our city council representatives.
"A big part of it is listening to the community."
This was a very touching presentation which reminded everyone present that we must all play a part in developing the community around us. Mr. Smith stated that he believes that a big part of continuing success in SE Fort Worth is to listen to the community because they will let you know what they need and where they need it most. I do wish Mr. Smith continued success in his endeavors and hope that everyone in the city can come together and make it clear to investors that we are in need of their assistance to increase the quality of life for everyone living in Fort Worth, especially those in the South East district.
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