Impact Cares was back in the heart of Texas, and what a whirlwind it's been! From battling unexpected snowstorms to basking in unseasonably warm 89-degree days, our team has experienced the full spectrum of Texas weather in the winter. But more importantly, we've seen the unwavering spirit of the Ramblewood community, and it's been nothing short of amazing.
Our journey began, as it always does, with a desire to listen to those who live there. While canvassing the neighborhood, a common theme emerged: a need for practical help, and some general clean-up of both trash and overhanging tree branches. We decided to roll up our sleeves and dive in. Randy's swift action in securing a man lift, Demoine's success in getting the power company to restore streetlights, and our collective effort to clear the neighborhood of debris were just the beginning.
For three days, we tackled overgrown trees, freeing homes from the threat of falling branches. The gratitude was encouraging. What started as a small team effort quickly blossomed into a community-wide cleanup, with residents joining us, reclaiming their lots and homes. In the midst of this, we met a remarkable young man, eager to learn and help. His enthusiasm for skirting repairs ignited a spark, and we encouraged him to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams, maybe even starting his own “skirting” business! This is the kind of grassroots empowerment that fuels our mission.
We were able, with the help of numerous volunteers, to replace damaged skirting, clean up piles of trash, help with some painting, and overall, help a struggling community rise up and once again taking pride in their own community. Our community dinner was a resounding success, drawing over 100 people. Diana and Nick's ability to connect with the Hispanic families was invaluable, bridging language barriers and fostering genuine connection. The addition of soccer balls to the newly installed goals, creatively adorned by Randy and Demoine, has brought joy to the children, transforming the space into a hub of activity.
Project days were equally impactful. Impact employees, local high school students, and residents worked side-by-side, creating a powerful sense of unity. The presence of six sheriffs, who shared lunch with us, and the generous donation of Chick-fil-A sandwiches, highlighted the community's support. The high school students' eagerness to volunteer again in Village next month is a testament to the positive experience they had.
Ramblewood's history, like many small Texas towns, is one of resilience and neighborly spirit. Bryan, Texas, known for its rich agricultural heritage, has always valued hard work and community support. This spirit was evident in the stories we heard and the people we met. We encountered an ex-Marine, a long-time resident with a debilitating back injury, who despite his challenges, was determined to help us. His kindness and the delicious dinner he shared with us touched our hearts. Similarly, the couple who provided us with warm meals of rice, beans, and tamales, and the husband who repaired their fence with our tools, exemplified the true meaning of community.
Our time in Ramblewood has been more than just a project; it's been a profound experience. We've witnessed the transformative power of collective action, the strength of human connection, and the unwavering spirit of a community coming together. We’ve seen people rediscover the joy in their community, and we are blessed to have been a part of it. We leave Ramblewood with hearts full of gratitude, knowing that the relationships we've forged will endure, and the seeds of hope we've planted will continue to grow. This is what Impact Cares is all about – making a tangible difference and fostering a brighter future, one community at a time.