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NEWS THECHANGELAB NEWS THECHANGELAB

Fresno is building an economy that works for everyone

Three hundred Fresnans came together with a big vision—to build an economy that creates opportunity for everyone. Five years later, the results speak for themselves. Fresno DRIVE shows what is possible when communities lead, when neighbors organize, and when everyone has a seat at the table.

Why This Matters for Organizers

  • Proof of Concept: Community-led initiatives can move the needle on national rankings

  • Replicable Model: Multi-billion dollar community-led investment plan created by residents

  • Infrastructure Focus: Neighborhood Hubs build relationships, trust, and collective power

  • Long-Term Vision: Five-year timeline shows sustained commitment produces results

  • Systems Change: Addressing root causes of poverty, not just symptoms

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WEBINAR, SPOTLIGHT THECHANGELAB WEBINAR, SPOTLIGHT THECHANGELAB

11/19/25 Child Care Is Workforce Infrastructure

When parents have good child care, they can go to work. When they can go to work, Houston's businesses run better. That's why child care is part of how our city works.

But many home-based child care providers struggle. They don't have money saved for emergencies. They don't know how to run the business side of child care. They can't get loans like other small businesses can.

What the Pilot Program Did

  • Gave money to 30 home child care businesses

  • Taught owners how to run their businesses better

  • Helped them prepare for storms and emergencies

  • Tracked what worked and what didn't

  • Learned lessons to help more providers

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RESEARCH AND REPORTS THECHANGELAB RESEARCH AND REPORTS THECHANGELAB

Understanding the Evolving Needs of America's Veterans

New information about America's veterans was just released this month. It tells us who they are, how they're doing, and what help they need. This matters for everyone who wants to support the people who served our country.

Why Houston Should Care

  • For Helpers: Learn what veterans really need, not what we guess they need

  • For City Leaders: Get facts about veteran health, jobs, and housing problems

  • For Business Owners: Understand the skills veterans have and the help they need

  • For Community Groups: See where veterans need more support

  • For Veterans and Families: Know you're not alone and find help

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