Sugar Land - Missouri City Edition | November 2024

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Sugar Land Missouri City Edition VOLUME 12, ISSUE 3 NOV. 8DEC. 9, 2024

Reinvestment in retail

Some commercial businesses in Sugar Land, such as First Colony Mall, will be eligible to apply for city assistance to fund exterior improvements.

AUBREY VOGELCOMMUNITY IMPACT Sugar Land approves $500K for commercial revitalization grant to improve business exteriors

this and are now assessing the program to determine our participation,” said Shenea Bankhead, First Colony Mall’s general manager. This commercial program builds on the city’s revitalization eorts, joining two other residential initiatives implemented in 2015 and 2022.

rejuvenating aging commercial centers by retain- ing and attracting businesses, and encouraging community engagement, Assistant Director of Redevelopment Jessica Huble said. First Colony Mall is one of dozens of commercial centers that will be eligible to apply for the grant, city ocials said. “We are pleased about funding opportunities like

BY AUBREY VOGEL

Sugar Land ocials are turning to revitalization to keep the city thriving as it reaches build-out with only 3%-4% of undeveloped land remaining. At a Sept. 18 meeting, the Sugar Land 4B Corp. approved the launch of the city’s Com- mercial Revitalization Grant Program, aimed at

CONTINUED ON 16

Also in this issue

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Impacts: Find out which California-based grocery store landed in Sugar Land (Page 6)

Community: Read our guide of local places to volunteer and make donations (Page 20)

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Impacts

2 Cafe Maahol The eatery offers Indian and Pakistani cuisine, including kebabs, curries, biryani and samosas, as well as pool and snooker tables for entertainment. • Opened Aug. 18 • 15559 W. Airport Blvd., Sugar Land • Facebook: Cafe Maahol 3 DXL Big + Tall The national clothing store chain offers various options for plus-sized men. • Opened Aug. 31 • 2577 Town Center Blvd. N., Sugar Land • www.dxl.com 4 EoS Fitness The national gym chain offers group fitness classes, cardio areas with TVs, free weights and saunas, with memberships starting from $10 a month. • Opened Sept. 26 • 3346 Hwy. 6, Sugar Land • www.eosfitness.com 5 Peaches Pilates The locally owned Pilates studio offers one-on-one and semiprivate classes, with a maximum of three people in a class. • Opened Oct. 5 • 2803 N. Main St., Stafford • www.instagram.com/peachpilatescollective 6 Rally House The sports apparel and merchandise retailer carries products from teams in the Houston area. • Opened Oct. 15 • 5748 Hwy. 6, Missouri City • www.rallyhouse.com 7 Portillo’s Signature menu items include Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, char-grilled burgers, crispy crinkle cut french fries and homemade chocolate cake. • Opened Oct. 22 • 11005 W. Grand Parkway, Richmond • www.portillos.com

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organic ingredients, and all cakes are made by hand. • Opened June 9 • 350 Promenade Way, Ste. 500, Sugar Land • 713-569-1661

Now open

1 Happy Cake The Kazakhstan-based business offers cupcakes, about 30 types of cakes, coffee and tea. The owners use

Services: Physical Therapy, Aquatic Therapy, Sports Performance

First Colony Aquatic and Rehabilitation Center - Rosenberg 5765 Reading Rd Rosenberg, TX 77471 (346) 375-7202 www.fortbendpt.com

First Colony Aquatic and Rehabilitation Center - Sugar Land 20403 University Blvd STE 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 (346) 375-5633 www.sugarlandpt.com

Sports Therapy Center 2225 Williams Trace Blvd #104 Sugar Land, TX 77478 (281) 344-2704 www.sportstherapycenter.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

brand Carvel and features a “nostalgic” ice cream bar, reminiscent of the 1950s. • Opening in the second quarter of 2025

Coming soon

Now open

8 Karma’s The lounge and bar will feature a curated cocktail menu, music by rotating DJs, comedy shows, live podcasts and a variety of food trucks. • Opening Dec. 15 • 4899 Hwy. 6, Ste. 112A & 113A, Missouri City 9 Scenthound The dog grooming business offers service packages, such as the basic hygiene or barber package, as well as tooth plaque reduction and shedding treatments. • Opening in January • 4899 Hwy. 6, Ste. 105C, Missouri City • www.scenthound.com 10 Ace Hardware The hardware store chain offers home improvement products, such as tools, grills and smokers, paint and paint supplies, and outdoor furniture. • Opening March 1 • 9320 Hwy. 6, Missouri City • www.acehardware.com 11 Swig The national drive-thru beverage chain offers custom sodas, specialty drinks and snacks such as hot pretzels and cookies. • Opening in spring 2025 • 20210 Fort Bend Parkway, Missouri City • www.swigdrinks.com 12 Chicken Salad Chick The national fast-casual chain offers dozens of different chicken salads, as well as sandwiches, soups and desserts. • Opening in the first quarter of 2025

• 15958 City Walk, Sugar Land • www.thebuttermilkbaby.com

14 Galaxy All Abilities Park The space-themed park will be accessible for all children, including those with disabilities. The park’s elements will feature sensory walls, interactive play equipment and tactile elements to encourage exploration. • Opening in October 2025 15 Michaels The business provides the tools and products for art, crafting, seasonal decor, custom framing, wall decor and floral decoration. The business also has merchandise for makers and do-it-yourself home decorators. • Opening in October 2025 • 20170 Fort Bend Parkway, Missouri City • www.michaels.com • 1515 Stadium Drive, Sugar Land • www.fortbendcountytx.gov 16 University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center The Missouri City center will provide cancer prevention and diagnostic imaging clinical services to area residents. Prevention includes risk management and medical screenings for several types of cancers. • Opening in spring 2026 • 8102 Hwy. 6, Missouri City • www.mdanderson.org 17 P. Terry’s Burger Stand The retro-style eatery sells hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers and a selection of sides. The Aliana location will serve as the region’s first model with no dining area and only a drive-thru; however, it will have a walk-up window for orders.

18 Trader Joe’s The California-based grocer known for its branded products offers specialty food and beverages, frozen meals and everyday items at the new 10,000-square-foot Sugar Land store. • Opened Oct. 24 • 13550 University Blvd., Sugar Land • www.traderjoes.com

In the news

19 Glenn Lakes Pharmacy The family- and minority-owned pharmacy celebrates 30 years in November. The pharmacy also has a boutique gift shop and restaurant. • 3640 Glenn Lakes Lane, Missouri City • Facebook: Glenn Lakes Pharmacy 20 Mamie George Branch Library Opened in November 1974, the Stafford library is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

• 9330 Hwy. 6, Missouri City • www.chickensaladchick.com

• Opening in the third quarter of 2025 • 10305 W. Grand Parkway S., Richmond • www.pterrys.com

13 Buttermilk Baby The eatery has vintage diner aesthetics and a menu with comfort food favorites, such as burgers, fried chicken and biscuits. The brand has a partnership with ice cream

• 320 Dulles Ave., Stafford • www.fortbend.lib.tx.us

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Government

BY AUBREY VOGEL

Fort Bend County OKs $10.2M raises for law enforcement

Fort Bend County law enforcement raises

Fort Bend County law enforcement employees will receive $10.2 million in raises in fiscal year 2024-25, funded by a hiring freeze of nearly half the vacant positions in the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office. The raises, which were unanimously approved at the Sept. 24 Fort Bend County Commissioners Court, will range from 4% to 53%, with an average of 22.2% higher than last year’s pay, Director of Human Resources Nicole Ledet said. The raises come after FBCSO officials urged county officials to help address the department’s detention staffing shortage. Sheriff Eric Fagan cited poor working conditions and noncompeti- tive pay as pain points when looking to hire and retain employees. “[The raises] will allow our law enforcement agencies to be able to attract new personnel into their agencies at a rate of pay that we believe is competitive to other counties,” Ledet said.

The cost Funding will be provided by freezing 58 of the 123 FBCSO vacant positions as well as cost of living adjustment funds, Director of Finance and Investments Pamela Gubbels said. The positions in the sheriff’s office will be frozen for the entirety of FY 2024-25, which ends Sept. 30, 2025; however, the sheriff can request some or all of the positions back in next year’s budget, she said. Looking ahead The raises will be implemented in two phases, with Phase 1 adjusting up to 10% of an individual’s salary, while Phase 2 will add supplemental funding if an individual received over a 10% increase, Gubbels said. Phase 1 of raises went into effect Oct. 12, while Phase 2 will be implemented in mid-April.

Sheriff’s office: $8.67 million Constables’ offices: $737,259 Other*: $770,444

$10.2 million

*OTHER INCLUDES LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL IN THE OFFICES OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY, FAIRGROUNDS, FIRE MARSHAL, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES-ENVIRONMENTAL, JUVENILE PROBATION, MEDICAL EXAMINER, AND ROAD AND BRIDGE. SOURCE: FORT BEND COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Government

BY KELLY SCHAFLER

Missouri City awarded $5.3M grant to hire 13 reghters

Digging deeper Meanwhile, City Council approved 6% salary increases for police and re department employ- ees, Mayor Robin Elackatt said at the State of the City event Sept. 19. “For our residents, this [$5 million] would equate to a ve-cent property tax increase if we had to fund it,” City Manager Angel Jones said at the event. “Please recognize we are only one of three cities in the state to receive this incredible funding.” What’s next Hiring eorts to recruit the 13 new reghters will begin in January, with department sta plan- ning to have the new reghters fully integrated into the 91-person team by March, Partida said. “This infusion of personnel will allow the department to reduce response times, improve coverage and enhance overall public safety for residents,” he said.

A $5.3 million federal grant awarded in September will allow the Missouri City Fire Department to hire 13 new reghters and improve the city’s emergency response services, ocials said. Missouri City received the Stang for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response, or SAFER, grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency Sept. 6, which will provide salaries and benets for the 13 new hires for three years starting in March, Chief Mario Partida said in an email. “The SAFER grant is a game-changer for our department,” Partida said. “With the addition of 13 new reghters, we are better equipped to serve and protect our community as it continues to expand. This funding will enable us to enhance our emergency response capa- bilities and ensure we are [maintaining] a safe community.”

The city of Missouri City received the federal grant Sept. 6. COURTESY CITY OF MISSOURI CITY

Over the next three years, sta will evaluate a plan on how best to fund the positions after the grant is spent.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY AUBREY VOGEL

Ocials seeking input on strategic plan Sugar Land residents have until Nov. 15 to weigh in on the city’s strategic plan for the next two years. What residents need to know In collaboration with Future iQ Inc., Sugar Land ocials are seeking public input for the decision-making operations and resource allocation from 2025-27, according to a Sept. 26 city blog. The online survey opened in late September and allows resi- dents to share opinions on the city’s future direction, community focus, infrastructure and community amenities. Next steps The strategic plan is set to be nalized and approved by the council in mid-December, Communications Director Doug Adolph said.

Sugar Land Fire Chief Doug Boeker retires Sugar Land Fire Chief Doug Boeker retired Oct. 20 after six years leading the department, according to a city news release. Boeker joined the Sugar Land Fire Department in 1992 as the city opened its third re station, and he served his entire 32-year career with the depart- ment, according to the release. During his tenure, he served as a reghter, lieutenant and battalion chief before his promotion to re and emergency medical services chief in 2018. According to the release, Boeker was vital in growing the department and enhancing commu- nity services, with accomplishments including: • Creating the Senior Fires and Falls • Assisting with the ambulance service in the city • Leading the creation of the Sugar Land Fired Up 5K • Leading youth outreach programs

"I entered this industry because I have a passion to serve, and it’s been my

great honor to work with the most compassionate, highly skilled men and women in the re service." DOUG BOEKER, FORMER FIRE CHIEF

What they’re saying “I have witnessed rst-hand the incredible passion Doug has to help people,” Deputy City Manager Jennifer May said in the release. “His passion to serve is authentic, and his extensive industry expertise will not be easily replaced.” What’s next? The city has not named an interim chief or established a hiring timeline for Boeker’s replacement, Communications Director Doug Adolph said in an email.

Missouri City’s City Centre to see dining expansions

Fort Bend County enacts burn ban

Maximum seating capacity with expansion

Cost

Future City Centre expansion options Sta recommended option C as the best choice. Option A: Bluebonnet room, an existing room on the rst oor Option B: Magnolia room, an existing room on the second oor

Fort Bend County commissioners enacted an outdoor burn ban Oct. 8 in all unincor- porated areas of the county following the Texas A&M Forest Service reporting worsen- ing drought conditions. What residents need to know They also banned certain reworks through Nov. 8 in the unincorporated areas of the county. The commissioners’ decision comes as 115 counties across the state have active burn bans, per the Texas A&M Forest Service’s website.

352 453 500

$1.9M $3.6M $4.2M

Option C: New building expansion

SOURCE: CITY OF MISSOURI CITYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

On Oct. 21, Missouri City City Council approved a $1.4 million dining expansion and bar remodel for City Centre, a multipurpose building. Council will also consider expanding its event space. The Quail Valley center—which oers event space and dining services—closed after Hurricane Beryl due to damages. The overview Per agenda documents, the project comes after council authorized a remodeling and expansion feasibility study to explore opportunities to: • Expand the event center seating capacity • Expand the dining and restaurant area’s footprint and incorporate an open-bar concept • Enhance customer experiences and maximize revenue potential

The details A 2020 National Golf Foundation study showed 43% of the center’s revenue was derived from club- house activities, with food, beverages and banquets providing the most opportunity for revenue growth, Parks and Recreation Director Donnie Hayes said. Additionally, the study found the Bluebonnet Grille area is too small to accommodate golfers and non-golfers with only 81 seats, he said. The expan- sion will bring the maximum seating capacity to 188 with a more open bar and a virtual golf option. Looking ahead City sta will present a more in-depth presen- tation regarding golf course branding and revenue updates of the potential event center expansion on Nov. 18 ahead of council action, Public Works Director Shashi Kumar said.

Prohibited activities under ban

Burning any material outside of an enclosure designed to contain ames Selling or using reworks, such as “skyrockets with sticks” and “missiles with ns”

SOURCE: FORT BEND COUNTYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SUGAR LAND MISSOURI CITY EDITION

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Education

BY KELLY SCHAFLER

Fort Bend ISD will delay and eliminate several projects from its 2023 bond to save nearly $96 million, acting as the first project slash since staff announced the initial $163.2 million shortfall estimate earlier this year. Trustees voted to eliminate a new elementary school in Harvest Green, delay a transportation facility, and adjust fine arts and athletics projects from the $1.26 billion bond at the Oct. 21 FBISD board meeting. This move will allow FBISD to reallocate funds to over-budget projects. District leaders said the shortfall could be as much as $80 million once the remaining project estimates come in. FBISD defers, eliminates 2023 bond projects

The details

District staff presented trustees with their plan on how to cull the deficit during the previous September and early October meetings. District staff recommended the following plan during the Oct. 7 agenda review meeting: • Delaying the district’s southeast transportation facility on FM 521, and potentially deferring some of the funds to build a special education transpor- tation facility • Eliminating construction on Elementary School No. 55, set for the Harvest Green community near Harlem Road • Limiting synthetic turf projects to bring costs down $23.4 million to reach the budgeted cost, with district staff saying they would prioritize age of campus and condition of fields when choosing the campuses that would receive the upgrade • Adjusting the fine arts project scope by reducing some classrooms at Hightower High School back to the budgeted amount to save $6 million

Cost savings

Eliminate Elementary School No. 55: $47.57M

Align turf and athletics with budget: $23.2M Defer transportation facility: $19.19M Align fine arts additions with budget: $6M Total $95.96M

SOURCE: FORT BEND ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

With trustees’ Oct. 21 vote, FBISD officials will have the option to use up to $33.08 million in contingency funds from the previous 2014, 2018 and 2023 bond packages, according to board doc- uments. These 2023 contingency funds can only be used for other projects within the proposition due to a 2019 law requiring school districts to split special-purpose items into their own propositions.

Remaining 2023 bond shortfall

$163.2M

Looking ahead

$200M

$150M

During the next meeting, trustees will also discuss the scope and funding for the natatorium project, which was also included in the 2023 bond. Chief Financial Officer Bryan Guinn cautioned trustees against considering calling a bond before the remaining 30% of 2023 bond projects receive independent cost estimates, which could continue coming in until the second quarter of 2025.

While Elementary School No. 55 and some of Hightower High School’s fine arts additions were eliminated from the 2023 bond, trustees and staff will discuss funding projects with a potential special-purpose bond proposition during the Nov. 4 agenda review meeting. Other renovations at Hightower High School can move forward in the meantime, officials said.

$57.3M

$100M

$50M

SOURCE: FORT BEND ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Transportation

Real estate

BY KELLY SCHAFLER

Fewer homes were sold in Sugar Land- and Missouri City-area ZIP codes in September compared to last September, with 238 homes sold versus 243 last year. Residential market data

Ocials study feasibility of elevated gondola-like system

Number of homes sold

September 2023

September 2024

-27.93%

+53.85%

+2.86%

+41.67%

+28%

The city of Sugar Land has entered into an agreement with Swyft Cities to conduct an engineering schematic study and determine the feasibility of adding an autonomous elevated cable and rail system in the city, according to an Oct. 11 news release from the city. How it works Called Whoosh, the small electric vehicles would allow riders on-demand access to take nonstop trips from stations located at key points in the city, according to the release. Whoosh vehicles would use a network of cables and rails similar to a gondola, but it would move independently on the cable instead of being a static vehicle attached to a moving cable, accord- ing to the Swyft Cities website. The system could be used to transport both individuals and goods. The details The engineering study, which cost Swyft about

77478

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Called Whoosh, the small electric vehicles would allow riders on-demand access to take nonstop trips from stations located at key points in the city, such as the Smart Financial Centre and Sugar Land Town Square.

$415,494 $369,000 $504,000 $250,700 $302,000

$473,096 $348,000 $506,750 $270,000 $334,450

77459

RENDERING COURTESY WHOOSH

77478

$22,000 and is anticipated to nish this year, will assess the feasibility of crossing Hwy. 6 and Hwy. 59 and moving toward the Smart Financial Centre and Crown Festival Park, Communications Director Doug Adolph said.

Next steps Sta will seek federal funding to conduct engi- neering and design of Whoosh’s entire three-phase system, Adolph said.

77479

77489

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77498

SUGAR LAND 3335 Hwy 6 S (281) 313-4446 MISSOURI CITY 5418 Hwy 6 (281) 403-0400

SUGAR CREEK 13827 Southwest Fwy (281) 491-8628 SIENNA PLANTATION 9034 Sienna Crossing Dr (281) 778-9959

NEW TERRITORY 5720 New Territory Blvd (281) 491-0811

Reinvestment in retail From the cover

The overview

Qualified multitenant centers

The Sugar Land 4B Corp. allocated $500,000 in its fiscal year 2024-25 budget toward the Commercial Revitalization Grant Program’s pilot year. Huble said the projects must accomplish two or more development outcomes, including improving: • Facades and exteriors • Amenities and open space

Built 1970-79 Built 1980-89 Built 1990-99 Built 2000-09

Sugar Land

5.56M Total gross leasable square footage in qualified retail centers

• Pedestrian areas and parking lots • Commercial awnings and signage • Public art such as murals • Public right of way or infrastructure

NGTON BLVD.

1092

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The centers also must have at least 20,000 square feet of gross leasable space. If approved, eligible properties can receive up to a 20% reimbursement of the project cost. Data from CoStar, a commercial real estate information company, showed only 12 of the city’s 441 commercial retail properties have had a major renovation since being built. “By strategically redeveloping and investing in the commercial centers and public spaces, Sugar Land can not only maintain our high quality of life but also create a more vibrant, attractive and sustainable community that will continue to thrive for years to come,” Huble said.

1995 Median build year of qualified centers

COMMONWEALTH BLVD.

2.38M Square footage of First Colony Mall, the largest qualified retail center SOURCE: CITY OF SUGAR LAND/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Digging in

Improvements in Town Square coming in early 2025 will address the area’s office landscape. Although these changes won’t be funded by the grant, Paterson said Rebees will look to identify other improvements that could.

“It’s helped to draw new tenants to the project and even tenants who were already in the project, reinvested in their storefronts,” he said. “Their business has improved. Their sales have improved.”

Since 2019, Sugar Land Town Square has seen improvements including modernizing building facades, improving signage and replacing store- fronts since Rebees Management Co. took over the property, Managing Partner Tom Paterson said.

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What’s next

Zooming out

Applications are expected to open Jan. 1 for the commercial grant program and will be accepted on a rolling basis with dollar amounts depending on the cost and scope of the project, Huble said. Beyond 2025, the program is expected to have an annual application, she said. Keri Schmidt, president and CEO of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, said she believes the city’s designation as a music-friendly community in mid-October and staff’s focus on events will pair with retail improvements. “When you have the aesthetics going and how beautiful everything is and then you add to it exciting events that draw people to your community, then you really have the whole package,” she said.

Beyond commercial centers, the city also has two revitalization programs focusing on home and neighborhood improvements, Huble said. Since 2015, the Fostering Unique Neighbor- hoods, or FUN grant, has provided a percentage of funding to homeowner associations, property owner associations and community groups to create unique spaces in neighborhoods, according to the city’s website. The FUN grant has funded 38 projects , with the city contributing nearly $1.59 million for a total investment of $3.78 million . Meanwhile, the Great Homes Update Program, which revitalizes home exteriors, finished its second year in September by funding 122 projects in 2024 with a total cost of $2.1 million in improvements and a city commitment of roughly $305,000 , Huble said. “It’s important for us to remain an economic and regional leader, and we have to take intentional and proactive steps to make sure we remain that,” she said.

City of Sugar Land’s revitalization investments since 2015

Fostering Unique Neighborhoods Grant: $1.59M Great Homes Update Program: $705,000 Commercial Revitalization Grant Program: $500,000

Total $2.79M

Great Homes Program 2023-24 investments

projects approved 267

reinvestment into the city $4.4M

SOURCE: CITY OF SUGAR LAND/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Learn your risk. Your lungs will thank you. It’s not that you take them for granted; but why would you think about getting a lung cancer consultation when everything seems fine? Often, symptoms don’t usually appear until the latest stages, and many people who develop lung cancer aren’t smokers or haven’t had known exposure to dangerous substances. Learn your risk—and talk to one of the experts at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center . Your lungs will thank you back.

Learn more about our NCI-designated cancer center at StLukesHealth.org/DLDCCC .

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Friday, November 15 | 10 a.m. Tree Lighting Watch the trees come to light & begin bidding or buy your favorite now. Tuesday, November 19 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Holiday Workshop Live demos & new trends, plus tree viewing with light bites & beverages - a perfect time to spend with friends. Thursday, November 21 | 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Festive Finale A festive party filled with cheer. Don’t miss the live auction with exclusive museum experiences, & final bidding on the designer trees & décor. Catering by Events by Safari. For sponsorship opportunities, to purchase tickets & for more information visit, hmns.org/jingletree or email jingletree@hmns.org It’s the most wonderful time of the year, as one of Fort Bend’s most beloved events returns to HMNS at Sugar Land.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY ASIA ARMOUR

Yoga on The Lawn Crystal Yoga Studio will host this free yoga class open to all skill levels on The Lawn of First Colony Mall. • Nov. 23, 10-11 a.m. • Free (admission) • 16535 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land • www.firstcolonymall.com A Magical Cirque Christmas This variety show at the Smart Financial Centre will feature theatrical performances to holiday music. • Nov. 24, 7:30 p.m. • $39-$94

October

The George Ranch Pumpkin Round Up The George Ranch hosts this fall-centric event showcasing a display of pumpkins, gourds, squash, fall florals and plants created by local designer Lucas Chavez. Attendees can find the round up behind the new Visitor Center while enjoying The George Ranch artifacts and autumn displays for photo opportunities. There will also be pumpkin-themed games. • Oct. 12-Nov. 16, 9 a.m. • $11-$16, free (kids age 3 and younger)

• 10215 FM 762, Richmond • www.georgeranch.org

• 18111 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land • www.magicalcirquechristmas.com

November

Snowfest The Missouri City festival features various activities, including a one-mile Shuffle Run and a parade. In the afternoon, the City Hall complex will have a giant snow hill, a holiday market and more. • Dec. 7, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. • Free (admission for parade and festival), unwrapped toy donation requested (shuffle run) • 2701 Cypress Point Drive, Missouri City (shuffle run) • 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City (festival) • www.missouricitytx.gov/999/snowfest

December

Movies on the Square Sugar Land Town Square will host attendees in the plaza for a screening of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs, and a town square restaurant will set up in the plaza for purchase of

City of Sugar Land Tree Lighting The city of Sugar Land will host this annual tree lighting at Sugar Land Town Square. The event features live performances, photos with Santa, family activities, sweet treats and a countdown to the tree lighting.

food and beverages. • Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m. • Free (admission) • 15958 City Walk, Sugar Land • www.sugarlandtownsquare.com

• Dec. 6, 5-8 p.m. • Free (admission) • 15958 City Walk, Sugar Land • www.sugarlandtownsquare.com

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SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Community Volunteer Guide

2024

The Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land The museum offers multiple volunteering opportunities year-round for both adults and high school students looking to promote science education at the museum. • Adult sample activities: organize field trips, assist with guest tours, maintain ongoing exhibits behind the scenes and participate in workshops and lectures • Teen sample activities: acting as teen docents, demonstrating hands-on activities at exhibits • Donations accepted: financial donations • 13016 University Blvd., Sugar Land • www.sugarland.hmns.org The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County The council provides basic literacy and English instruction, GED preparation, computer skills and citizenship to area adult residents. • Sample activities: work one-on-one with adults needing help in basic literacy, provide administrative support and help with annual fundraising events • Donations accepted: monetary donations, in-kind donations, paper products, notebooks, general

Learn more about volunteer and donation opportunities in Fort Bend County, including cities such as Sugar Land, Missouri City and Rosenberg. For specific volunteer requirements, contact the organization directly. This list is not comprehensive.

Animal services

Serve Sugar Land The city of Sugar Land offers opportunities for volunteers age 14 and older to assist different city departments, including at the Sugar Land Animal Shelter. • Sample activities: cat enrichment, clean cages, provide fresh food and water, walk dogs • Donations accepted: money, Fancy Feast canned kitten food, fleece blankets, cat hideaways and dog enrichment items

Fort Bend County Animal Services The organization welcomes volunteers to assist with animal care for the more than 3,500 animals the shelter takes in each year. • Sample activities: assist with socializing, walking, bathing and grooming tasks • Donations accepted: food, toys, beds, bottles for kittens and puppies

• 101 Gillingham Lane, Sugar Land • www.sugarlandtx.gov/volunteer

Civic

Missouri City Green This environmental nonprofit brings residents together through its educational programs, beautification projects and recycling activities. • Sample activities: individuals, school groups and other service organizations can volunteer to assist with community events • Donations accepted: monetary contributions Sugar Land Heritage Foundation This organization’s mission is to inspire community pride by collecting, preserving, communicating and celebrating the history of Sugar Land. • Sample activities: become a heritage ambassador, office management, artifact cataloging, data entry services • Donations accepted: financial donations • 198 Kempner St., Sugar Land • www.slheritage.org • P.O. Box 1175, Missouri City • www.missouricitygreen.org

office supplies, children’s books • 12530 Emily Court, Sugar Land • www.ftbendliteracy.org

• 1210 Blume Road, Rosenberg • www.fortbendcountytx.gov

Housing support

Fort Bend Family Promise The organization mobilizes a network of local congregations to help families regain housing. • Sample activities: administrative support, children’s activities, maintenance and cleaning, and leading adult classes • Donations accepted: monetary donations, computers, books and video games, gas cards, feminine items, dishes and glasses, in-kind donations • 4645 Cartwright Road, Missouri City • www.fortbendfamilypromise.org Fort Bend Habitat for Humanity This nonprofit seeks volunteers who can donate their time and skills to build homes throughout the county. • Sample activities: build homes, administrative support at office or ReStore, serve on volunteer committees • Donations accepted: monetary donations; household items such as furniture and working appliances; building materials such as doors and windows; parcels of land; vehicles • 505 Julie Rivers Drive, Ste. 150, Sugar Land • www.fortbendhabitat.org Fort Bend Rainbow Room The Rainbow Room provides emergency and transitional supplies to Fort Bend County children and families involved with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services due to abuse and neglect. • Sample activities: assist with its events, grant

writing, inventory management, donation solicitation and organizing drives to collect needed items • Donations accepted: monetary donations, in-kind donations, new diaper bags, twin-sized sheets and comforters, new athletic shoes, pillows, paper towels and toilet paper, school supplies, books, toys • 3150 BF Terry Blvd., Rosenberg • www.fbrr.org Fort Bend Women’s Center This is an organization designed to help survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children to gain safety and independence through its services. • Sample activities: work in the shelter and alongside clients through its various programs, assist with special events, help with office administration, staff the crisis hotline or help sort through donations • Donations accepted: monetary donations, household items, toiletries, clothing, diapers, give or

Education

The Fort Bend Education Foundation This nonprofit organization within Fort Bend ISD supports the school district through its grant programs and community events. • Sample activities: join the efforts of the Friends of the Foundation Auxiliary—a group that helps create awareness of the community’s educational needs; recruitment for fundraising; pickleball tournament; donations collection • Donations accepted: monetary donations accepted in tiers, cakes before auctions, other auction items for galas, adopt-a-teacher

shop at ThriftWise store, sponsor events • Home office: 501 E. Hwy. 90A, Richmond • www.fbwc.org

Human services

The Arc of Fort Bend County The advocacy organization ensures opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental

• 16431 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land • www.fortbendisd.com/foundation

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ASIA ARMOUR, ATIRIKTA KUMAR & KELLY SCHAFLER

Human services

Civic

Serve Sugar Land The city of Sugar Land offers opportunities for volunteers age 14 and older to assist different city departments, including the Parks and Recreation events team that puts on the annual July 4 and Christmas events. • Sample activities: direct crowds at annual events, provide line control in the children’s areas • Donations accepted: N/A • 2700 Town Center Blvd. N., Sugar Land • www.sugarlandtx.gov/volunteer

AccessHealth The community health center provides medical, dental and counseling services. • Sample activities: assist in vision pre-screenings and event set-up and clean-up for Nov. 5-8 See to

Succeed event • Donations accepted: money and sponsorships

• 7707 Hwy. 6, Missouri City • http://myaccesshealth.org

• Sample activities: varies by location but includes administrative work, assisting with events and working in classrooms • Donations accepted: varies by location but all accept monetary and in-kind donations • Mental Health Sugar Land Clinic: 2535 Cordes Drive, Sugar Land • Children’s Center for Autism at Sugar Land: 130 Industrial Blvd., Ste. 200, Sugar Land • www.texanacenter.com

education and community development programs. • Sample activities: sort food, pack and distribute items; event set-up and clean-up; client registration; tutor; answer phones; help with walk-in client

disabilities to maximize their quality of life through social and recreational programs. • Sample activities: be a peer, provide social and recreational activities, play sports, craft • Donations accepted: money, sponsorships • 407 Julie Rivers Drive, Sugar Land • www.arcoffortbend.org Child Advocates of Fort Bend The nonprofit is dedicated to supporting neglected and abused children and their families. • Sample activities: helping with the Christmas Home Tour, becoming a Voices of Children Ambassador, helping with administrative office tasks, working with children by becoming an advocate • Donations accepted: money, small bottles of water, snacks, toys and activities for teens, gifts cards • 5403 Ave. N., Rosenberg • www.cafb.org East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry The nonprofit helps provide the basic needs of families facing food insecurity or who are in a temporary financial crisis. • Sample activities: pick up donations; screen clients; stock shelves; package produce; package items for the clients; plan and work at community events; and sort, tag and perform numerous duties at the resale shop • Donations accepted: money; items in good condition for the resale shop, including furniture, clothes and electronics, as well as new hygiene products • 435 Stafford Run Road, Stafford • www.humanneeds.org Fort Bend Care Center The nonprofit focuses on supporting community members through health services, food security,

inquiries; help with data entry • Donations accepted: money • 7707 Hwy. 6 S., Missouri City • www.fortbendcarecenter.org

Rainbow of Love This social service organization provides adoption services to assist young women and men who are not prepared for parenthood. • Sample activities: distribute and collect baby items, assist with toy drives, administrative support, answer phones, write grants • Donations accepted: baby items such as diapers and wipes, monetary contributions, toiletries • 2700 Lake Olympia Parkway, Missouri City • www.rainbowoflove.org Second Mile Mission Center This faith-based nonprofit provides food, counseling and health care to residents living in material poverty. • Sample activities: put food on the pantry shelves, hang clothes on the racks, sort donations • Donations accepted: financial donations, food items, used clothing, furniture, employer matching gifts • 1135 Hwy. 90A, Missouri City • www.secondmile.org Texana Center This nonprofit provides services to children and adults with mental health issues, autism and developmental disabilities, including crisis intervention, behavioral analysis and career development.

Senior resources

Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels The nonprofit helps Fort Bend and Waller counties’ seniors age 60 or older with free programs ranging from meal delivery to transportation. • Sample activities: deliver meals, assist at special events, pack meals at distribution sites, volunteer at senior centers, hold donation drives, socialize via telephone, provide office clerical assistance • Donations accepted: money, in-kind donations including auction items, bingo prizes, meals for animals and welcome bags with toiletries • Four Corners Recreation Center, 15700 Old Richmond Road, Sugar Land • 5th Street Community Center, 3110 5th St., Stafford • Christ United Methodist Church, 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land • www.fortbendseniors.org

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

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