Hugs Cafe

In 2010, the Graham family relocated from Alaska to Allen and was surprised to learn there was not a theatre in Allen. When they asked about it they were told if they wanted one, they should start one and so they did.They posted flyers at the library and around town, inviting people interested in theatre to a meeting. Five people showed up.

This core group aligned with the Allen Arts Alliance to perform skits at the Texas Stampede and gain exposure to the community. A call for open auditions was set for the Arts Alliance offices, but no one had a key, so auditions were held on the porch. It was this open air audition that our group was formed: Gena, a drama teacher from Alaska, Robin, an award winning make-up artist, Nancy, who was crossing off items from her bucket list, and Jeremy, a professional stage combat actor with hometown ties to Allen.

From those humble beginnings to shows at The Harvest Church and the Allen Christian Church to our new home, it's been a fast and furious adventure. We are grateful for everyone who has played a part!

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Carson's Crusaders Foundation was established in memory of Carson Richardson, who lost his battle with Hepatoblastoma cancer in 2010 at the age of 7. The Foundation was founded by Carson Richardson's parents, Ryan and Kimberly, and grandfather, George Richardson.

Through Carson's three and half year battle with Hepatoblastoma, the Richardsons were blessed with financial, emotional, and spiritual support from friends and family. Their community embraced and supported them through the difficult journey. They soon realized that not all families were as fortunate. Their desire to help others led to the formation of Carson's Crusaders Foundation.

Lesli Lord is an entrepreneurial executive with twenty years of management experience in non-profit healthcare networks, publicly traded corporations and oncology professional societies. Adept at achieving organizational goals through strategic planning, fundraising and sponsorship programs, consensus building and effective communication. Extensive background in operations, project management, business development, relationship management, and administration

Senior Donor Engagement Officer, Collin County

[email protected]

214-750-4117

Jeri joined CFT as a donor relations officer in 2018 after years of dedicated community building in Collin County. She works to further connect charitably minded individuals, families, and businesses with their philanthropic passions and encourages giving to CFT's Collin County Impact Fund. Jeri holds a bachelor's in secondary education from the University of Texas at Austin and a master's in educational administration and supervision from the University of Nebraska-Omaha. She has 12 years of experience as an educator, with eight years as a Plano ISD teacher. Jeri is a graduate of Leadership Plano, Leadership North Texas, and Leadership Texas. In 2019 Local Profile magazine identified Jeri as Collin County Woman of the Year.

Donor Relations Officer, Collin County

[email protected]

214-750-4255

As a donor relations officer for Collin County, Heather cultivates and stewards relationships connecting individuals, families and organizations to their philanthropic interests. Her passion is working with CFT donors to enhance their journey as they navigate their charitable interests. Prior to joining CFT, Heather was the treasurer for Riata Corporate Group where she managed all corporate financial activity, prepared budgets and reports, and created and monitored policies and procedures. Additionally, she was exposed to various business structures, major asset sales, and a variety of industries. Heather holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Texas Tech University.

Communities Foundation of Texas' NTX Giving Day is an 18-hour online giving event designed to empower every person to give back to their community by supporting local nonprofits and causes they care about in one easy-to-use platform. NTX Giving Day is the largest community-wide giving event in the nation.

In 2022, $62.6 million was raised through 94,385 donors benefiting 3,210 local nonprofits, bringing the fourteen-year total to over $503 million for our community. Since its inception in 2009, this online event has transformed from an idea to help local people give wisely, to a movement that has ignited a broad culture of community-wide giving. During NTX Giving Day, everyone can find their passion and give with purpose, uniting to build a stronger and more vibrant community.

Welcome to "The Heart of North Texas," a podcast that delves deep into the vibrant tapestry of the North Texas community. Join your hosts, Mark "Friedo" Friedman and Zoe Martin, on an inspiring journey as they uncover the incredible stories of individuals and groups who are leaving an indelible mark on the North Texas area.

Whether it's the tale of a grassroots movement creating positive change or a heartwarming story of neighbors coming together to support one another, this podcast celebrates the rich diversity and unity that define North Texas. Through interviews, conversations, and real-life anecdotes, listeners gain a deeper understanding of what makes this community so special.

Friedo and Zoe venture into the heart of neighborhoods, businesses, and institutions, uncovering the driving force behind North Texas' transformation. They engage with visionaries, activists, artists, and everyday heroes, allowing their authentic voices to resonate and inspire listeners far and wide.

If you're eager to discover the heartwarming stories that make North Texas a place of compassion, innovation, and resilience, then "The Heart of North Texas" is the podcast for you. Join Friedo and Zoe as they spotlight the individuals and groups who are turning their passion into action and making a lasting impact on the North Texas area.