A Message from the Executive Director

FLCRC had another EPIC year! Throughout 2025, we stayed committed to our mission by supporting 328 families, assisting 134 crime victims, and reaching more than 900 individuals. Our Youth Ambassador Leadership Education (Y.A.L.E.) students furthered this mission by completing 11 service projects and totaling 285 service-learning volunteer hours!

Events in the last quarter included the inaugural Dakota Merriweather 5K Walk/Run supporting the Dakota Merriweather Scholarship, the Y.A.L.E. students’ visit to Bisong Gallery in Houston during Arts Week, and the annual Bullying Awareness Conference featuring student voices.

Our sold-out Ninth Annual Banquet in December was one of the biggest highlights this year. Actor Lodric D. Collins was a true inspiration as our celebrity keynote speaker. We presented nine scholarship awards totaling $5,550, recognized crime survivors and our Volunteer of the Year, and highlighted exciting new plans in the works.

Looking ahead, we continue to raise support for our Capital Campaign, FLCRC’s Future: Building a New Generation of Leaders. This initiative will expand our summer enrichment camp into a comprehensive summer enrichment experience. Y.A.L.E. leaders are also preparing for an educational trip to Toronto, Canada and Niagara Falls this July.

We invite your support as we continue to have a positive impact in Fort Bend County. To learn more about our programs or to donate, visit FamilyLifeCRC.org.

Sincerely,

Ilene Harper, Ph.D.
Executive Director

Y.A.L.E. Leaders Visit Houston Art Gallery

On October 11th, our Y.A.L.E. students visited Bisong Gallery in Houston and had the pleasure of meeting its founder, Carla Bisong. Ms. Bisong gave an inspiring tour and shared about the role of art in supporting mental health. Bisong Gallery features both emerging and internationally recognized artists, with a mission to “amplify underrepresented voices, foster cultural dialogue, and empower communities through the transformative power of art.”

Standing Against Bullying Together

Our annual Bullying Awareness Conference took place on October 25th and featured a range of activities equipping students and parents to fight bullying. Licensed professional counselor Dr. Melissa Earls shared a captivating keynote message, and our Y.A.L.E leaders demonstrated remarkable bravery in discussing the challenges of bullying from their perspective. This engaging event informed and empowered everyone who attended to “GO ORANGE” and stand against bullying together!

FLCRC Invites Community Partners to Support Our Capital Campaign

On October 9th and November 13th, we hosted two events to unveil exciting plans for our youth and invite feedback and support from community partners. Our FY25-26 Capital Campaign, FLCRC’s Future: Building a New Generation of Leaders, will support the expansion of our summer enrichment camp to a six-week summer enrichment experience! Donate at FamilyLifeCRC.org/campaign.

First Dakota Merriweather 5K Walk/Run is a Success!

On November 15th, FLCRC proudly hosted the First Annual Dakota Merriweather 5K Walk/Run, a heartfelt tribute to our former Y.A.L.E. leader whose life reflected the kindness, servant leadership, and college readiness we instill in every Youth Ambassador. This meaningful community event brought together supporters, families, and leaders to honor Dakota’s legacy while advancing our mission. The walk/run raised $1,300 in support of the Dakota Merriweather Scholarship, which recognizes high school students who demonstrate outstanding character, leadership, and service to the community.

 An Evening of Celebration and Gratitude

On December 6th, 130 staff, volunteers, supporters, and friends of FLCRC gathered to celebrate another remarkable year of growth and community impact. The sold-out celebration was a beautiful reflection of the lives touched and the mission advanced throughout the year. Our celebrity guest, Lodric D. Collins, delivered a truly inspiring keynote message that encouraged resilience, leadership, and purpose. We also honored our nine Scholarship and Award recipientsFLCRC Scholarships and Awards | Past Recipients, our Volunteer of the Year, courageous crime survivors, and our generous donors who make our work possible. Dr. Cleo Wadley, FLCRC Board Vice President, brought energy and excitement to the program as Master of Ceremonies. Our Y.A.L.E. leaders proudly showcased their leadership portfolios, engaged with attendees, and demonstrated the confidence and growth that define the program. Guests also enjoyed a lively silent auction that added to the evening’s success. In total, the event raised $16,300 in proceeds. Thank you to everyone who helped to make this an incredible occasion.

Numbers in 2025

We are pleased to share these numbers highlighting the reach and impact of our various programs in 2025. Special thanks to all who have made this important work possible!

2025 Community Survey Results

We conducted our annual community survey this winter. 45 respondents shared helpful insights into 2025. This data is very useful for understanding the community we serve, identifying what we’re doing well, and improving our programs where needed. Thank you to all who shared their important feedback!