Committed to a brighter future for children, neighbors and communities.

We consider a healthy neighborhood to be one that is safe, clean, and diverse; one in which it makes economic sense for people to invest and one where neighbors manage change successfully.

We consider a healthy neighborhood to be one that is safe, clean, and diverse; one in which it makes economic sense for people to invest and one where neighbors manage change successfully.

A Rich History and An Exciting Future

It has been almost two years since our family relocated to Waco. What began as a surprise birthday getaway for our design-loving daughter turned into more than we could have ever imagined. I am thoroughly convinced that our first Waco road-trip was divinely orchestrated.

In June of 2021, we attended our first Juneteenth celebration in Texas. We watched the parade and then took a self-guided walking tour of Elm Street. It was a hot day. Thankfully, there were two women on the street handing out drinks and snacks. They asked where we were from and then proceeded to tell us about the community we were exploring. It was very clear we had stumbled upon a font of historical knowledge—someone who really knew East Waco. Though I didn’t know who she was at the time, my intro to East Waco 101 lesson was taught by Jeanette Bell.

I have had the privilege of spending a lot of time in East Waco since that first Juneteenth celebration. At the ribbon cutting for Bridge Street Plaza, there were many unfamiliar faces that are not so unfamiliar anymore. I see them almost daily—East Waco business owners, pastors, civic leaders—all working together to strengthen the community.

My primary remit at Grassroots is to listen. Connect and collaborate, yes—but listen first. Like many communities, East Waco is not a monolith. Different people feel differently about different things. It has been a pleasure listening to a plurality of voices and I’m thankful for all of the people who have so graciously given me their time.

East Waco has a rich history and an exciting future. There is a lot happening. The new Bridge Street Farmer’s Market will increase access to nutritious food. The Levitt AMP music series will bring quality concert performances.  Many Waco residents look forward to enjoying these new community assets. I know I do. As we enjoy the wonderful newness, however, I am reminded that we must also be intentional about appreciating and respecting the historical richness of the East Waco community that has always been.

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Grassroots Community Development
Grassroots Community Development5 days ago
"One of the things I often hear, from those who have grown up in Waco and those who are still relatively new—is how neighborly our neighborhoods are. Today, on National Good Neighbor Day, let’s celebrate one of the things that makes Waco such a special place to live!"

Read more about National Good Neighbor Day in our latest blog post. https://grassrootswaco.org/blog/good-neighbor-day/
Grassroots Community Development
Grassroots Community Development1 week ago
Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the unique voices and experiences of Hispanic/Latino Americans and recognize their history, journeys, and achievements. Take a look at some of the programming going on around Waco and immerse yourself in the community!
Grassroots Community Development
Grassroots Community Development2 weeks ago
Our Annual Charity Golf Scramble is just 4 weeks away. Join us for a day of golfing, good food, and fun at Cottonwood Creek Golf Course!

Thursday, October 19th
Check-in & Lunch at 11:30am
Tee off at 1:00pm

For more information call Mike Stone at (254) 235-7358 ext. 206 or get the registration form at https://tinyurl.com/4ks8vcke
Grassroots Community Development
Grassroots Community Development2 weeks ago
In our latest blog post, Grassroots housing counselor, Darrell, shares about identity theft and how to protect yourself. Learn more at https://grassrootswaco.org/blog/how-to-protect-yourself-from-identity-theft/
Grassroots Community Development
Grassroots Community Development2 weeks ago
We are now accepting applications for our Roof Repair Program for City of Waco residents. The open enrollment and application process goes through Thursday, November 2nd.

The services provided are supported through a grant from the City of Waco. This program is at no cost to low-income families who live in the City of Waco limits and meet the application qualifications.

You can learn more and download an application at https://grassrootswaco.org/special-programs/

You may also stop by our office to pick up an application at 1624 Colcord Ave, Monday- Friday 8-5pm

For more information, please call Project Manager Brian at 254-235-7358 ext 210.
Grassroots Community Development
Grassroots Community Development2 weeks ago
“Always look at the opportunities and possibilities in a situation,” Daysi, founder and owner of 25th Street Furniture Store, shared. Daysi started in 2013 with a dream of serving the North Waco community and providing a service that betters the lives of her neighbors. With a laptop and an innovative mind, Daysi started a money transfer business that served the community and brought ease to many of her customers. Ten years later, Daysi was able to lean into that innovative spirit, grow her knowledge about running a business, and ultimately build her business into a furniture store that is for the community. “I never turn down a request,” Daysi shared, “I may need to think creatively with the customer, and we brainstorm how to make their request a reality, but I always work to say yes to an opportunity to do something new.”

Today, 25th Street Furniture provides affordable furniture with unique designs and capabilities. 25th Street Furniture prides itself on being a place for the community. When you walk into the store and engage with Daysi and her team, they get to know your preferences and needs so that every conversation and purchase is tailored to the individual customer. Daysi gives back to the community through 25th Street Furniture and her involvement with the Hispanic Chamber. She is a big advocate for business owners being connected and learning from each other.

25th Street Furniture is located at 1108 N. 25th St. and open at 10 am on weekdays. Daysi and her team are available and ready to support the Waco community with their furniture needs. Daysi shares with the community, “It is important to see situations as learning experiences. Strive to look towards the solution and learn something from the situation.”

Take the time to get to know the local businesses in North Waco and visit Daysi and her team on 25th street!