EMPOWER, a nonprofit child welfare collaborative, now provides foster care case management, kinship and reunification services for all children and families in the Metroplex East region, after entering Stage II of the Community-Based Care (CBC) contract with the State of Texas on March 1, 2024. EMPOWER is led by Texas Family Initiative LLC (TFI) and is supported by local providers in North Texas, including CK Family Services, Jonathan’s Place, The Bair Foundation and Pathways Youth and Family Services. EMPOWER will serve as the lead agency for the nine-county area that includes Dallas, Collin, Ellis, Fannin, Grayson, Hunt, Rockwall, Kaufman and Navarro counties.

“Our team has worked tirelessly to prepare for the final phase of CBC readiness and get ready to provide children and their families in the Metroplex East region with the most effective services to promote safety, permanency and overall well-being,” says Shirley Dwyer, Texas Family Initiative Chief Executive Officer (CEO). “We are thankful to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services for their loyal partnership in ensuring a seamless transition.”  

EMPOWER was awarded the CBC contract by the State of Texas in February 2023, and entered a multi-stage process to take over services for the region. Stage II is the phase of implementing and transforming the services and care provided to children and families in the nine-county region through February 29, 2028, the term of this contract. 

CBC is an innovative approach to traditional foster care services because it utilizes local nonprofits to outsource out of home placement and case management services. Under CBC, a single entity is responsible for coordinating and delivering all child welfare services in a specific geographic area. The model allows for the CBC contractor to draw on existing community-based local resources and support to meet the unique and individual needs of children and their families. CBC’s goal is to have children placed in foster care close to their home so that they may thrive and remain connected to their family, friends, school and community. In order to promote family preservation and reunification, EMPOWER works with families to identify the root causes of their involvement with the child welfare system and provides the support needed to solve those issues.  

“Our team is committed to the safety and well-being of children and families in Metroplex East and we are dedicated to providing them with the best care available,” says Dr. Linda Garcia, Senior Vice President of EMPOWER. “We will also continue to educate our local communities on the crucial role foster parents play to fill the significant need for more foster homes.” 

The Metroplex East contract is one of the largest CBC awards in U.S. history, and the fifth region in Texas to transition to CBC services. There are nearly 2,000 foster children in the Metroplex East region. 

Since Sept. 1, 2023, EMPOWER has provided placement services in the Metroplex East Region. During that time, all children referred by the State have been placed in a licensed placement and have not stayed in unlicensed child watch. For the first time in over five years, all children in the Metroplex East Region are placed in licensed placements.

According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), from September 2021 to February 2022, on average there were 2,456 children in DFPS conservatorship in Texas’ Metroplex East region. Around 79% of those foster children were placed within the same Metroplex East region, and 37.8% were placed in their home county. 

There are many local children in foster care in need of a safe, loving place to call home. To learn more about how individuals and families can help these children in need, please visit www.3empower.org.

U&I and the SPCA of Texas have partnered for The 30th Annual U&I Dash on Saturday, March 23 at Klyde Warren Park in Dallas. The event kicks off early Saturday morning with a dog-friendly 5K & 1 mile race through the Dallas Arts District then shifts gears to become an art and music festival from 4 to 10 pm.

In 1951, Jean Walker Bentley overcame cultural barriers and spoke out for disabled children and their families. She started the Children’s Development Center to meet the scholastic and socialization needs of children with special needs. In 1981, the federal government mandated that public schools had the responsibility to educate children with disabilities. The organization evolved to help veterans find employment and provide vocational training for special education students preparing to transition out of high school.

Today, as one of the largest workforce development centers in DFW, U&I continues to meet the needs of disabled individuals by providing vocational training, job readiness training, paid work opportunities and community placement to more than 1000 youth and adults with severe intellectual, physical and/or mental health disabilities. More information is available at uandispreadthelight.com.

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Jewish Family Service (JFS) announces that legendary makeup artist, best-selling author, and accomplished entrepreneur Bobbi Brown will participate in an insightful conversation at the 2024 Woman to Woman Luncheon. The event is scheduled for Thursday, April 18, at noon, at Fairmont Dallas Hotel, located at 1717 N. Akard St.

“The Woman to Woman Luncheon serves as a biennial celebration honoring the influence and achievements of women, and Bobbi Brown's presence promises to elevate the occasion to new heights,” said Cathy Barker, CEO, JFS. “Attendees will have the privilege of engaging with Bobbi Brown in a captivating discussion, delving into her illustrious career and entrepreneurial journey."

Renowned for her transformative impact on the beauty industry, Bobbi Brown's legacy extends far beyond cosmetics. From her humble beginnings creating a collection of lipsticks to establishing a global beauty empire with Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, she has continually pushed boundaries and redefined industry standards. Even after departing from her namesake brand, Brown's entrepreneurial spirit has remained undimmed, as evidenced by her successful ventures including justBOBBI.com, a digital editorial content site; The George, a 31-room boutique hotel in her hometown of Montclair, New Jersey; and 18Label, a state-of-the-art production studio. Her newest venture, Jones Road Beauty, is her collection of products for all ages, skin types, and skin tones. Recognized by Business Insider as one of the fastest-growing brands, Jones Road Beauty has garnered accolades from esteemed media outlets such as Allure, Vogue, W, In Style, and Essence.

Bobbi Brown's expertise in translating trends into practical applications has garnered her widespread recognition, including being named one of Forbes' "50 Over 50" most influential women in 2022 and receiving numerous awards for her contributions to both the beauty industry and philanthropy. Her accomplishments include receiving the Glamour Woman of the Year Award, The Fashion Group International Night of Stars Beauty Award, and The Jackie Robinson Foundation's ROBIE Humanitarian Award. Additionally, she was appointed by President Obama to serve on the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiation and was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame.

"We couldn't be more thrilled to welcome Bobbi Brown to Dallas for our luncheon," added Barker. "Her remarkable journey and unwavering commitment to empowering women make her the perfect choice to headline our event."

Co-Chairs are Fran Toubin, Sam Utay, Susan Kramer, Bobbie Repp, and Barbara Spigel, who are dedicated to advancing the cause of this luncheon fundraiser. Proceeds from the event will support JFS in providing mental health and social services to individuals regardless of age, race, religion, or financial status, benefiting more than 16,500 individuals last year alone.

Honorary Chairs, the JFS Diaper Shower Founders, Cathy Glick, Julie Liberman, and Beverly Rossel have been instrumental in the nonprofit's diaper collection efforts, providing essential resources to those in need since 2010.

Since its inception, the luncheon has raised over $5 million, significantly expanding JFS's reach and impact. Past speakers have included prominent figures such as Joy Behar, Goldie Hawn, and Diane Von Furstenberg.

The 2024 luncheon features a jewelry pull, a wine pull, and a luxury raffle. Sponsorship opportunities start at $1,800, and a limited number of tickets are now available.

For more information and to purchase tickets and sponsorships, visit jfswomantowoman.org

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Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas is a nonprofit organization providing comprehensive health services that address physical, emotional, nutritional, and financial well-being. Their mission is to provide effective and accessible whole-person care that promotes lifelong self-sufficiency and well-being for the Greater Dallas community. JFS Dallas offers programs to the community such as primary medical care, individual age-appropriate counseling and group support, career and financial coaching, a food pantry, support for older adults, and a Clubhouse for adults with mental illness. Since 1950, they have served anyone, regardless of age, race, religion, or ability to pay. The agency’s services impacted over 16,500 lives last year. Jfsdallas.org

As the official first day of spring approaches on Tuesday, March 19th, there's a palpable sense of renewal and rejuvenation in the air. The longer days, warmer weather, and blooming flowers mark a time of transition and growth—a perfect opportunity to focus on our mental well-being and embrace the positive energy of the season.

The Promise of Spring

Spring symbolizes a fresh start, offering us the chance to shake off the winter blues and embrace new beginnings. Whether you're a fan of outdoor activities, gardening, or simply soaking up the sun, here are some tips to make the most of this season and nurture your mental health along the way

Tips for Mental Health During Spring

Soak Up the Sunshine: As daylight hours increase, make the most of the sunshine by spending time outdoors. Exposure to natural light can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle and boost your mood.

Engage in Physical Activity: Take advantage of the milder weather to get moving. Whether it's going for a walk, cycling, or practicing yoga in the park, physical activity is a powerful mood booster.

Connect with Nature: Surround yourself with the sights, sounds, and scents of spring by spending time in nature. Take a hike, visit a botanical garden, or simply sit in your backyard and enjoy the beauty around you.

Practice Mindfulness: Take a moment to pause and be present. Mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and grounding techniques can help reduce stress and increase feelings of calmness.

Nurture Your Creativity: Spring is a time of inspiration and creativity. Whether it's painting, gardening, or writing, find an outlet for your creativity and allow yourself to express your innermost thoughts and feelings.

Dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

While spring brings a sense of relief for many, it's important to acknowledge that some individuals may still experience symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during this time of year. If you're struggling with feelings of depression or low mood, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Treatment options for SAD may include light therapy, counseling, medication, and lifestyle changes.

How NAMI North Texas Can Help

NAMI North Texas is here to support you on your journey to mental wellness. As a trusted resource in the community, NAMI North Texas provides essential education, advocacy, and support group programs for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. Whether you're looking for information, support, or resources, NAMI North Texas is here to help. Check out our educational and support programming, call us at (214) 341-7133, or email info@NAMINorthTexas.org.

Embrace the Beauty of Spring

As we welcome the official arrival of spring, let's take this opportunity to prioritize our mental health and embrace the beauty of the season. By incorporating these simple tips into our daily routine, we can cultivate a greater sense of well-being, vitality, and joy as we embark on this journey of growth and renewal.

Remember, spring is a time of transformation and possibility—so let's make the most of it and bloom into our best selves!

If you are seeking support or need information on how to better manage a mental health challenge in yourself or a loved one, you are not alone. Reach out to NAMI North Texas, a chartered affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which offers outstanding peer-led programs and provides no-cost education, skills training and support in Dallas, Collin, Denton, and Rockwall counties. Visit www.naminorthtexas.org  or call 214-341-7133 for more information. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts and in need immediate of help, please call or text 988 or chat online at www.988lifeline.org.

Lyric Stage, a theatre company dedicated to the development and preservation of the musical, presents Sweeney Todd from March 15 to April 7. These performances will be presented at Lyric Stage’s new studio stage. Tickets are now available. Opening night, March 15, is sold out.

Sweeney Todd:The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is the unsettling tale of a Victorian-era barber who returns home to London after 15 years of exile to take revenge on the corrupt judge who ruined his life. Sweeney Todd has won numerous awards including eight Tony nominations with two of those wins in 2023. It was a finalist for 2023’s Tony’s Best Revival of a Musical.

Scott Guenther, Lyric Stage’s general manager, said, “This is Lyric's second production in our new studio space, an intimate and immersive experience for audiences, putting them right in the heart of the theatre magic. Sweeney Todd is also the final production in Lyric's show-stopping 30^th anniversary season, crafted under the guidance of Executive Producer Catherine Carpenter Cox.”

Lyric Stage’s performance times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at $35. Student rush tickets are available for $25 beginning 90 minutes before each performance. Tickets may be purchased online, at the door, or by calling the box office at 214-871-5000. 

Lyric Stage

1170 Quaker St.

Dallas, TX 75207

March 15-April 7, 2024

Friday, Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday & Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets: $35 and $25 for students
Ticket link:  https://www.lyricstage.org/sweeney

The cast includes Jonah Munroe as Sweeney Todd; Mary Gilbreath Grim as Mrs. Lovett; Cameron Vargas as Anthony Hope; Isabella Zambrano as Johanna; Ethan Rodriguez-Mullins as Tobias Ragg; Evan Faris as Judge Turpin; Anthony Ortega as The Beadle; Sarah Powell as the Beggar Woman; Ryan Michael Friedman as Adolfo Pirelli; The Ensemble includes Madeleine Norton, Maya Hernandez-Pearson, Shane Duckett, Daniel Hernandez, Rowan Gilvie, Kenneth Lane, Jayden Russell, Keith Warren; Kids Ensemble include Jessie Prince, Wyatt Hartz and Joshua Brown. 

Michael Serrecchia serves as Director; Megan Kelly Bates is the Assistant Director/Choreographer; Hans Grim serves as Music Director; Breianna Bairrington serves as Costume & Wigs Designer; Tricia Guenther serves as Costume & Wigs Assistant Designer; Scott Guenther serves as Production Designer and General Manager, and Catherine Carpenter Cox serves as Executive Producer.

About Lyric Stage: Lyric Stage, a Dallas-based 501c3 not-for-profit professional musical theatre company, was established in 1993 with the mission of the development and preservation of the musical, a unique art form. In its thirty-year history, Lyric Stage has produced over 125 productions, which include 21 world-premiere musicals and 2 Off-Broadway shows. For more information, visit www.lyricstage.org