Turning Hope into Opportunity
During an
interview with a community leader, I heard something that stuck with me: "We can give kids hope through after-school and summer programs, but when they go home hungry, that hope fades." Hunger pushes them toward crime, not opportunity. That reality weighed on me. I saw grassroots organizations trying to make a difference, but many lacked resources, structure, and support. Instead of simply inspiring hope, I decided to create real opportunities by uniting organizations, strengthening their visibility, and providing the tools they needed to thrive.
A Movement Born from Loss and Purpose
In July 2022, I lost my mother. A month later, in August 2022, I launched our first major initiative—a Back-to-School Rally in Balch Springs, TX. This event brought together organizations, businesses, and community leaders, including Sweetgreen Salads, the Dallas Mavericks, nonprofits, marketing and tech companies, and the Balch Springs Library. We created a vibrant community event with a food truck, bounce house, school supply giveaways, water balloon games, and more—proving what was possible when people work together.
By November 2022, I was ordained as a minister, stepping deeper into serving the community—not just through outreach, but through ministering, counseling, officiating marriages, organizing mobile food pantries, hosting voter registrations, and supporting community gardening initiatives.
Building a Network of Impact
Since then, I’ve connected with local churches, government agencies, nonprofits, and businesses to expand our efforts. Communities Over Competition is more than a platform—it’s a movement that equips and strengthens those already working to make a difference.
Through my work, I’ve launched and partnered with initiatives such as:
- Little L Salsa Garden – A brand rooted in faith, providing gourmet roasted salsas while supporting food-based community programs.
- Kool Kidz Boxing – A community boxing program that empowers youth through discipline, fitness, and mentorship, providing a positive outlet to build confidence and resilience.
- BEE Pollinators Youth Gardening Program – Educating the next generation about sustainability and urban farming, including speaking at Sylvia Mendez Elementary in Dallas for Career Day.
- Sow Reap Gal
– A rare seed company co-founded with my wife, Kiandre Clark, that promotes sustainable gardening and food independence.
- Scholar House Publishing – A platform that helps individuals and organizations amplify their voices through publishing and marketing.
- Full Clip Magazine
– A community news source that highlights grassroots efforts, small businesses, and impactful initiatives.
- Faith-Based Counseling & Ministerial Services – Providing counseling, officiating weddings, and offering spiritual guidance to strengthen individuals and families.
At Communities Over Competition, we believe that no one should struggle alone. When we come together, we don’t just survive—we thrive.
Join the Movement
If you’re a business, nonprofit, or community leader looking to collaborate and grow, let’s connect. Together, we can turn hope into opportunity and build a stronger future for our communities.
