North Central Austin Edition | November 2024

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North Central Austin Edition VOLUME 17, ISSUE 8 NOV. 29DEC. 30, 2024

Furthering food access

Austin, Travis County cement community plan for more resilient food system

Qualifying area residents can pick up nutritious food at the Central Texas Food Bank’s mobile FARMacy pantry, launched last year in response to local food insecurity.

BEN THOMPSONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

and improving lacking food access for residents. “This food plan sets a historic precedent that equitable access to safe, nutritious food and the land in support of that is something that we all deserve and have a right to,” Joi Chevalier, The Cook’s Nook owner and Austin/Travis County Food Policy Board member, told county leaders in October.

The work came in response to widespread food system setbacks and shortages amid the COVID-19 pandemic and Winter Storm Uri, and in anticipation of future climate disruptions. Residents, local groups and governments will pursue dozens of strategies laid out in the “plan of plans” through the 2020s and beyond to ll the cracks in Central Texas’ food system by encourag- ing more local production, addressing disparities

BY BEN THOMPSON

After several years and with input from thou- sands of residents, Austin and Travis County’s rst-ever food plan was approved by local leaders this fall. It’s meant to address access and production issues experienced countywide, where less than 0.1% of food is grown locally and more than 1 in 10 people regularly struggle accessing healthy food.

CONTINUED ON 28

Also in this issue

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Election: See unocial results on local races from the Nov. 5 election (Page 13)

Nonprofit: Check out a variety of volunteer opportunities (Page 23)

WASTEWATER AVERAGING

Wastewater averaging takes place during the late fall/winter months and coincides with seasonal low water use, when many households naturally cut back on irrigation, filling pools, washing cars, and other outside water uses. Find your Wastewater averaging period and join My ATX Water for near-real time water use data, leak alerts, and more!

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About Community Impact

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Amanda Cutshall Dacia Garcia Sarah Hernandez Elisabeth Jimenez Anna Maness Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Gracie Warhurst Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia Karoline Pfeil Sam Schaer

Deeda Lovett General Manager dlovett@ communityimpact.com

Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Account Executive Crystal Martinez Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Senior Product Manager Haley Grace Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara

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Impacts

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

NORTH AUSTIN

5 Nando’s Peri Peri The Afro-Portuguese restaurant is now serving flame- grilled chicken in the Mueller neighborhood. Cooks flame grill the spatchcock chicken after it has been marinated in herbs and spices for 24 hours. Guests can choose to have their chicken marinated plain with peri peri chili, or with a variety of spice blends, from lemon and herb to extra hot peri peri bastes. • Opened Nov. 13 • 1825 McBee St., Austin • www.nandosperiperi.com 6 Teddy's The bar and grill from the team behind Bill’s Oyster is now open, offering Southwestern-style dishes. Teddy's is named after co-owner Daniel Berg's son. Behind the restaurant is also Dylan Salisbury and a menu helmed by Executive Chef Rene Garza. • Opened Nov. 18 • 1601 W. 38th St., Ste. 1, Austin • www.teddysaustin.com

Now open

CENTER RIDGE DR.

MOPAC

183

3 Honest Mary’s The healthy, fast-casual eatery founded by Mary and Nelson Monteith is now serving build- your-own-bowl-style meals in the Mueller neighborhood. The restaurant serves bowls with toppings like roasted vegetables, cooked meats and fresh produce. The new Mueller location features patio seating and a kids’ turf play area. • Opened Oct. 11

290

In the news

7 Couch Potatoes Furniture Austin’s Couch Potatoes, a locally-owned furniture factory and retailer, expanded its space in North Austin with a remodeled showroom and new manufacturing facility at the end of August. • Expanded Aug. 30 • 12901 N. I-35, Bldg. 3, Ste. 301, Austin • www.couchpotatoes.com

MCBEE ST.

• 2021 Aldrich St., Austin • www.honestmarys.com

MAP NOT TO SCALE

North Central

The Houston-based brand offers a variety of wines, liquors, beers, cigars and gourmet food selections. • Opened Oct. 18 • 914 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.specsonline.com 4 Ten Seconds Noodle House The Chinese noodle chain opened its first location in north Austin this fall. The eatery’s Yunnan-inspired cuisine features signature rice-based “cross the bridge” noodle dishes with beef, quail eggs, vegetables and other protein. Ten Seconds also offers a variety of hot and cold appetizers and various soup types, in addition to house teas and soft drinks. • Opened Nov. 15 • 9070 Research Blvd., Ste. 104, Austin • www.tensecondsaustin.com

Now open

Closings

1 Kochu The family-owned Korean restaurant specializes in bulgogi jjajangmyeon, buldak, Korean fried chicken wings and sandwiches. • Opened Oct. 1 • 8820 Burnet Road, Ste. 502, Austin • www.kochuaustin.com 2 Spec’s Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods The liquor store opened its new Austin location on North Lamar Boulevard in what previously housed a Goodwill.

8 Wu Chow Chinese restaurant Wu Chow closed its north location in the Rosedale neighborhood last month after its Austin-based parent company Chameleon Hospitality was acquired by an undisclosed private equity-backed restaurant group. The downtown location will remain open under the new management. • Closed Oct. 11 • 3800 N. Lamar Blvd., Ste. 170, Austin • www.wuchowaustin.com

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Impacts

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

5 Juiced Up and YTX Yoga The cafe and the yoga studio moved into a new space in the Indeed Tower from Fourth Street Smoothies and acai bowls are served at the juice bar, and YTX offers various yoga and fitness classes. • Reopened Oct. 30 and Nov. 1 • 200 W. Sixth St., Ste. 250, Austin • www.juicedupcafe.com and www.ytxaustin.com

Now open

PARKWAY

Coming soon

6 Shug’s Bagels A Dallas-based bagel shop from owner Justin Shugrue will open in the Clarksville neighborhood, serving New York-style kettle-boiled bagels. • Opening 2025

3 Tiger Lilly The event venue opened in the former home of Estelle’s lounge, from Austin real estate firm LV Collective, the building’s owner, and Matt Wolski, the local hospitality operator behind Other Racquet Social Club and Parlor & Yard. • Opened Nov. 14 • 400 Colorado St., Austin • www.tigerlillyatx.com

• 1206 Parkway, Austin • www.shugsbagels.com

Closings

DRISKILL ST.

7 Star’s Cafe The 24-hour diner is closing its original Austin location after 58 years due to the expansion of I-35 and is hoping to relocate in the future. • Closed Nov. 10 • 3101 N. I-35 frontage road, Austin • www.starscafeaustin.com 8 Irene’s The restaurant and bar will close at the end of November after eight years due to the end of its lease off West 6th Street. • Closing Nov. 24

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Downtown/West Campus

French and Texan influences. Serenade is led by chef Johnny Ray Stinebaugh, with menu development also overseen by W Austin’s Executive Chef Manuel Rodriguez. • Opened in October • 200 Lavaca St., Austin • www.serenadeaustin.com 4 The Kitchen The Kitchen, an American bistro, opened in downtown Austin’s Sixth and Guadalupe tower. The restaurant is from Kimbal Musk, brother of Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and the menu is helmed by Chef Michael Bertozzi. • Opened Nov. 14 • 400 W. Sixth St., Ste. 125, Austin • www.thekitchen.com

Now open

1 Tómalo Grill Tómalo Taqueria expanded into Tómalo Grill and is now a full-service restaurant. Tómalo took over what was the Mexican restaurant Bacalar. • Opened in September • 44 East Ave., Ste. 100, Austin • www.tomaloatx.com 2 Serenade Located on the ground floor of hotel W Austin, the restaurant offers locally sourced dishes with both

• 506 West Ave., Austin • www.irenesaustin.com

9 Icenhauer’s The 14-year-old bar announced its closure on social media. Icenhauer’s offered live music, drinks and burgers from food truck Gobble Gobble. • Closing Nov. 24

• 83 Rainey St., Austin • www.icenhauers.com

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Impacts

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

4 The Wheel Too Renovations to what was previously Crow Bar in south Austin will yield yet another product of FBR Management’s steady growth over the last decade. The second iteration of The Wheel, a neighborhood bar on the east side, is anticipated to open by the end of the year. • Opening winter 2024 • 3116 S. Congress Ave., Austin • www.fbrmgmt.com 5 Dish Society Following the success of its rst Austin location in Mueller, the restaurant will open a second spot on South First Street, set to debut in late February or early March. The restaurant boasts “Southern-sourced” foods, drawing most of its ingredients and food from local farmers and ranchers, according to the company’s website. • Opening spring 2025 • 1600 S. First St., Ste. 110, Austin • www.dishsociety.com

Now open

MOPAC

5 6

2 Postino The wine cafe is now open across the street from Saxon Pub on South Lamar Boulevard. The Arizona- based restaurant oers a variety of wines, beers and cocktails as well as paninis, soups, salads, charcuterie boards and sharable plates. • Opened Nov. 9 • 1301 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. 102, Austin • www.postinowinecafe.com

Closings

6 Picnik The Austin-based cafe has closed its Bouldin Creek location. The restaurant served salads, sandwiches, teas and more. Picnik has another location on Burnet Road. • Closed in October • 1600 S. First St., Ste. 110, Austin 7 Pep Boys The automotive business oered vehicle repair, maintenance services and tire installations. • Closed in October • 3909 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin 8 Baby Acapulco Austin’s Tex-Mex restaurant Baby Acapulco, known as Baby A’s, has closed its Barton Springs Road location. Baby A’s can still be found in North and East Austin. • Closed in October • 1628 Barton Springs Road, Austin

MAP NOT TO SCALE

South Central

Coming soon

3 HEB Dubbed a “landmark project” by the company, the H-E-B on South Congress Avenue is expected to be ready for business starting the rst week of December. Originally opened in 1957, the structure was expanded over the years, according to a new release. However, the original building was demolished in February 2022 to make way for the company’s “reimagined store.” The new 145,000-square-foot space will feature the full array of amenities that shoppers expect from the well- known grocer. • Opening Dec. 4 • 2400 S. Congress Ave., Austin • www.heb.com

Now open

1 San Ginés Spanish chocolatier San Ginés opened a new cafe and bar in Austin this month, oering the Madrid-based brand’s signature chocolate and churros, Spanish tapas, espresso drinks, chocolate-infused wine and specialty cocktails like a signature chocolate martini. • Opened Nov. 15 • 2072 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.sanginesusa.com

Happy Holidays!

Every donation helps Austin Habitat for Humanity build homes & hope with Central Texas families. follow us @atxrestore • www.austinhabitat.org/restore

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

290

Impacts

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

EAST AUSTIN

• 2105 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Austin • www.fuseworkspace.com

Now open

5 Loudmouth Daybreak Hospitality—behind brunch restaurant Paperboy—recently opened Loudmouth, offering pizza, sandwiches, beer and more in a historic house. • Opened Nov. 6 • 1209 Rosewood Ave., Austin • www.loudmouth.pizza

In the news

183

6 Rebel Cheese Life-long foodies turned vegan, Kirsten Maitland and Fred Zwar brought their creation of artisan, vegan cheese to a storefront in the Mueller area of Austin, known as Rebel Cheese, five years ago this October. The fromagerie uses four ingredients in their cheese:

3 Teddy’s Neighborhood Bar From the same team behind Love Supreme Pizza Bar is a neighborhood cocktail bar taking over the former Thunderbird Coffee space on Manor Road. • Opened Oct. 11 • 2200 Manor Road, Austin • www.teddysatx.com 4 FUSE Workspace A new office, event and coworking facility is now open. The 33,000-square-foot workspace features almost 130 private offices, private suites and meeting rooms, and is staffed full-time. Amenities include onsite parking and bike lockers, a gym, multiple patios, fiber internet service, and drink and snack offerings. • Opened Oct. 17 2 The Flower Shop The new multi-story eatery and bar concept from Eldridge Hospitality is inspired by classic Midwestern diner and pub culture. It features a dining area, multiple bar spaces and a private second floor area, and a rooftop patio overlooking downtown. Signature dishes and classic bar fare is offered. • Opened Oct. 10 • 1300 E. Seventh St., Austin • www.theflowershopnyc.com/the-flower-shop- austin

cashews, water, salt and cultures. • 2200 Aldrich St., Ste. 120, Austin • www.rebelcheese.com

Closings

O L

973 7 Revival Coffee The pink-colored coffee shop closed its doors on the East side late October. Local business owner Gabriela Alma Bucio was unable to secure a long-term lease for the future. The shop served traditional coffee drinks as well as specialty drinks and pastries inside the business’ famous pink interior. Bucio is hoping to relocate Revival Coffee in the future. • Closed Oct. 27 • 1405 E. Seventh St., Austin 130 TOLL 8 Outer Heaven Disco Club Outer Heaven Disco Club will close in March due to the landlord not renewing the club’s lease, according to a social media post from the business. Outer Heaven is a nightclub owned by Sean Daigle that offers karaoke Monday through Thursday and dancing on Friday and Saturday nights. • Closing March 2025 • 1808 E. 12th St., Austin

MAP NOT TO SCALE

East Austin

Now open

71 1 The Malin National coworking brand The Malin entered the Austin market this fall with the launch of a new location on the east side, its first in Texas. The hospitality-driven workspace has room for 24 desks, 12 phone booths, 10 private offices, four meeting rooms and a pair of libraries across 12,000 square feet. Members can also access executive assistant and concierge services ranging from support for meeting preparation to dining reservations. • Opened Oct. 1 • 1515 E. Cesar Chavez St., Austin • www.themalin.co/locations/eastaustin

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Recognizing Our Veterans

At the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority, we salute our veterans. Our Qualified Veteran Discount Program allows qualified veterans to drive toll-free on select toll roads, including 183A Toll, 290 Toll, the 71 Toll Lane, 45SW, and 183 Toll. If you have a specialty plate and meet eligibility requirements, you can apply for the program today.

Qualified Veteran Discount Program

MORE THAN MILES

Learn more about the program at www.MobilityAuthority.com/veterans

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY HALEY MCLEOD & BEN THOMPSON

Austin to spend $123M on public safety sites A new land acquisition to expand Austin’s public safety training campus is set to be approved, weeks after City Council voted to buy two Southwest Austin offices to serve as a future combined police, fire and emer- gency medical services headquarters. The big picture On Nov. 21, after press time, council members will vote to spend $2.24 million for more than 4 acres of land near the existing training center in South Austin to expand that facility’s capacity, according to the city. It’d come soon after they authorized the purchase of what will become a joint headquarters building off MoPac on Oct. 24. The acquisition and related design and rehabilitation will cost $120.5 million, to be funded through city debt.

Security concerns Texas judges, court staff and others in the legal system have faced an increasing volume of security incidents this decade including dozens of personal threats made in 2023 alone.

342.1% increase since 2014

600

500

400

300

200

100

SOURCE: TEXAS OFFICE OF COURT ADMINISTRATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Travis County invests in judicial security systems Travis County commissioners approved new judicial safety funding this fall, following scrutiny of previous home security spending on District Attorney José Garza. What happened County leaders approved a $115,000 budget amendment for Garza’s security after a March executive session. Attorney General Ken Paxton

since sued them, claiming their “secret” discus- sion over using public money at a private resi- dence violated state law. On Oct. 22, commissioners approved $500,000 for county judge, staff and elected officials’ safety. They also reaffirmed Garza’s security funding, which a county spokesperson said is needed to address threats. Commissioner Jeff Travillion said the moves are needed to protect public workers in a “poisonous political time.” District Judge Julie Kocurek—shot nine years ago in apparent retaliation for a judicial ruling—said funding may help “vulnerable” officers given rising threats against them.

New safety centers

SPYGLASS DR.

MOPAC

Office purchase

E Y F A

Land purchase

Austin moves to ban hidden rental fees in affordability, transparency push City landlords could soon be required to disclose all tenant fees from the start of the leasing process. Put in perspective Tenant Action and University of Texas School of Law analysts found hidden fees are common around Austin. housing providers are concerned about unin- tended consequences from the council proposal. Zooming out

UT Law clinical professor Heather K. Way said the system creates a “race to the bottom,” leaving honest landlords at a competitive disadvantage if they do disclose extra costs upfront. Emily Blair, Austin Apartment Association executive vice president, said Austin landlords are committed to fee transparency and that some local

New rules for rental fee and apartment advertis- ing transparency could be in place by June, based on a resolution from council member Ryan Alter approved in late October. More than half of Austin’s households rent, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Renter representation group Building and Strengthening

Austin’s approach comes with more reported rental housing “junk fees” nationwide, according to the National Consumer Law Center. The White House and Federal Trade Commis- sion also moved to ban junk fees. And apartment listing services like Zillow have changed their systems to display total rental costs.

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide. Election results breakdown Voters weighed in on local and state issues this November. Some of these include tax increases, a mayoral race and school board candidates. SOURCES: TRAVIS COUNTY CLERK, WILLIAMSON COUNTY CLERK/COMMUNITY IMPACT Incumbent Winner Headed to runoff Democrat D Green G Libertarian L Republican R

58.4% Gina Parker 41.6% Nancy Mulder Texas Court of Criminal Appeals — Place 7 R D 58.93% Lee Finley 41.07% Chika Anyiam Texas Court of Criminal Appeals — Place 8 R D 58.29% David J. Schenck 41.71% Holly Taylor Texas Court of Criminal Appeals — presiding judge R D

67.35% Greg Casar 32.65% Steven Wright U.S. House of Representatives — District 35 R D U.S. House of Representatives — District 37 74.2% Lloyd Doggett 23.59% Jenny Garcia Sharon 2.2% Girish Altekar R D L

State Elections

U.S. Senate R D L

53.13% Ted Cruz 44.5% Colin Allred 2.37% Ted Brown

Texas Railroad Commission R D L G

55.7% Christi Craddick 2.6% Hawk Dunlap 38.94% Katherine Culbert 2.75% Eddie Espinoza

Local Elections

Texas House — District 47

Austin City Council — Mayor

58.29% Jimmy Blacklock 41.71% DaSean Jones Texas Supreme Court Justice — Place 2 R D 57.39% John Devine 42.61% Christine Vinh Weems Texas Supreme Court Justice — Place 4 R D 56.33% Jane Bland 40.41% Bonnie Lee Goldstein 3.26% J. David Roberson Texas Supreme Court Justice — Place 6 R D L

60.16% Vikki Goodwin 39.84% Scott Firsing

D R

50% Kirk Watson 20.14% Carmen D. Llanes Pulido

16.64% Kathie Tovo 8.39% Jeffery L. Bowen 4.82% Doug Greco

Texas House — District 48

83% Donna Howard 17% Daniel Jerome McCarthy L D

61.92% Chip Roy 36% Kristin Hook U.S. House of Representatives — District 21 R D 2.09% Bob King L

CONTINUED ON 15

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

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APY* %

*All promotions will run at the stated APY (Annual Percentage Yield) rate as of 9/1/2024 and are subject to cancellation or change in rate without notice.The minimum balance to open an account and obtain APY is $1000. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

CONTINUED FROM 13

Incumbent

Democrat D

Green G

Libertarian L

Republican R

Winner

Headed to runoff

50.6% Marc Duchen 49.4% Ashika Ganguly Austin City Council — District 10

58.51% José “Chito” Vela 27.71% Monica Guzmán Austin City Council — District 4

70.75% Julie Ann Nitsch 29.25% Joe Sefton Austin Community College trustee, Place 9 Austin Community College trustee, Place 7 42.46% Cole Wilson 29.25% Sherri Lynn Taylor District Attorney — 53rd Judicial District 67.58% José Garza 32.42% Daniel W. Betts R D

6.1% Louis Herrin 4.34% Jim Rabuck 3.34% Eduardo “Lalito” Romero

60.87% LaRessa Quintana 39.13% Sarah Ivory Austin ISD Board of Trustees — District 2

39.84% Mike Siegel 19.29% Gary L. Bledsoe 14.85% Pierre Huy Nguyen 11.15% Adam Powell 8.65% Todd Shaw 6.22% Edwin Bautista Austin City Council — District 7 51.31% Krista Laine 48.69% Mackenzie Kelly Austin City Council — District 6

32.46% Fernando Lucas de Urioste 25.95% Lindsey Stringer 23.75% Amy Moore 8.64% Dylan “Sky” MacAdams 5.64% Nathaniel Hellman 3.56% Nick Franke Austin ISD Board of Trustees — At-Large Position 8

59.44% For 40.56% Against Travis County Proposition A

58.02% For 41.98% Against Austin ISD Proposition A

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Real estate

In October, active listings—homes currently for sale—increased by more than 15% in the Central Austin market year over year. Residential market data

Number of homes sold

October 2023

October 2024

-40%

-58.82%

+133.33% +135.29%

-22.22%

78705 78751 78752 78756

78701

78702

78703

78704

78705

78722

78757

78731

290

360

78723

78703

-25%

+25%

+120%

+50%

-40%

+3.57%

78701

78722

78702

78704

290

183

MOPAC

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 5124547636 WWW.ABOR.COM

78723

78731

78751

78752

78756

78757

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Central Austin

Median home sales price

October

2023

2024

October

2023

2024

$615,000 $725,000 $1,125,000 $673,750 $370,000 $451,500 $590,000 $995,000 $665,000 $450,000 $844,261 $754,000

$892,000 $649,000 $1,599,000 $925,000 $304,700 $560,000 $509,000 $1,069,500 $489,000 $465,000 $937,500 $675,000

380 382

78701

New listings

78702

180 208

Closed sales

78703

Homes under contract

174 232

78704

78705

Homes sold by price point

78722

October 2024

78723

$900,000+

78731

$700,000-$899,999

78751

$500,000-$699,999

78752

$300,000-$499,999

78756

<$299,999

78757

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Education

BY ELISABETH JIMENEZ

What’s next for the AISD tax-rate increase About 58% of Austin voters approved a tax-rate increase that aims to bring in additional revenue for Austin ISD amid a $119 million budget decit. The gist The scal year 2024-2025 tax-rate will increase to $0.9505 per $100 valuation, a $412 yearly increase in property taxes for the average homeowner, ocials said. What’s next District ocials project an additional $171 million in revenue. AISD will lose around $130 million to recapture payments. There will be additional budget cuts of around $92 million over the next three years, according to district ocials.

AISD campus set to be leased or sold for revenue Austin ISD ocials deemed a former school campus as surplus on Oct. 24, paving the way for ocials to monetize the campus through the lease or sale of the 4.62 acre tract of land. How we got here The original Rosedale School, which opened in 1939 to serve special education students, vacated in 2022 due to the school’s outdated infrastructure. Law enforcement agencies began using the former Rosedale location as a training facility in February 2024. Why it matters The approval of the resolution comes in the midst of a $119 million budget decit at AISD and uncertainty about a tax rate election to combat the decit.

The former Rosedale School building was vacated in 2022 and has been used as a law enforcement training facility since February 2024.

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Former Rosedale School

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HIGHLAND 5775 Airport Blvd (512) 366-8300

ARBORETUM 10515 North Mopac Expressway (512) 342-6893

NORTH LAMAR 914 North Lamar (512) 214-6665

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Volunteer Guide

2024

The Trail Conservancy TTC works to protect, enhance, and protect the Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake for the benefit of all. Volunteer opportunities are available yearlong, including helping with restoration and conservation efforts on Saturday mornings or through event support at the annual Maudie’s Moonlight Margarita Run. • Sample activities: native planting and seeding, mulching, trash pickup, event support • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, corporate sponsorships, memberships • 1920 E. Riverside Drive, Ste. A-120 PMB 223, Austin • www.thetrailconservancy.org

Learn more about volunteer and donation opportunities in central Austin. For specific volunteer requirements, contact the organization directly. This list is not comprehensive.

Education and family

Animal and environmental services

Austin Animal Center Volunteers at the city-run, no-kill shelter are required to attend a training session and commit to six hours a month. • Sample activities: greeting adopters at the shelter, providing outreach, giving enrichment to animals, serving as adoption ambassadors, providing medical assistance • Donations accepted: monetary gifts online, item donations at shelter or ordered through Amazon wish list • 7201 Levander Loop, Bldg. A, Austin • www.austintexas.gov/austin-animal-center Austin Humane Society The Austin Humane Society is the longest-standing no-kill, nonprofit pet and adoption center in Austin. AHS saves homeless cats and dogs, and educates about responsible pet ownership and reducing pet overpopulation. • Sample activities: cat socialization, dog socialization, pet photography, assisting in clinic department, customer service and fostering • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, wish list items available online Austin Parks Foundation The nonprofit partners with the community to make public parks, trails and green spaces better through volunteerism, innovative programming, advocacy and financial support. • Sample activities: citywide volunteer event It’s My Park Day (first Saturdays in March and November), individual workdays held throughout the year (first Saturday monthly) • Donations accepted: monetary; annual fundraiser Party for the Parks • 1023 Springdale Road, Ste. 10D, Austin • www.austinparks.org/volunteer Austin Pets Alive! This nonprofit is an animal rescue group that creates programs to promote and provide the resources, education and programs needed to eliminate the killing of companion animals. • Sample activities: dog walking, fostering pets, caring for cats, assisting in the medical clinic, digital marketing, data entry • 124 W. Anderson Lane, Austin • www.austinhumanesociety.org

Education and family

Council on At-Risk Youth (CARY Kids) CARY’s mission is to empower at-risk youth with skills to avoid crime and violence. • Sample activities: one-time opportunity as a Program Support Volunteer supporting planning an event or program or a Campus Support Volunteer to help with needs such as acquiring donated snacks or food, dropping off items at the campus, helping to celebrate CARY graduations, and supporting service learning projects and field trips. • Donations accepted: monetary gifts or sponsorships • 3710 Cedar St., Box 23, Austin • www.cary4kids.org CASA of Travis County CASA volunteers advocate for children who’ve experienced abuse or neglect in Travis County. Volunteers must complete a personal interview, background and reference checks, and a 39-hour training. • Sample activities: spending 15-20 hours a month getting to know a child, their family and situation; gathering information to make recommendations to a judge in their best interest • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 7600 Chevy Chase Drive, Ste. 200, Austin • www.casatravis.org Austin Partners in Education This nonprofit serves Austin ISD middle and high school students through individualized academic and mentoring programs to help break down barriers to postsecondary education. • Sample activities: weekly one-on-one mentoring; middle school math tutoring • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • www.austinpartners.org

Any Baby Can The nonprofit offers in-home services for children facing a scary diagnosis, first-time moms and parents who need extra support to take on life’s challenges. • Sample activities: child care, assembling kits, running a phone bank, organizing storage • Donations accepted: monetary and in-kind donations • 6207 Sheridan Ave., Austin • www.anybabycan.org Assistance League of Austin The all-volunteer nonprofit aims to strengthen communities through its seven programs that serve children, teens and adults. Programs and operations are funded by Thrift House revenue, foundation grants, member dues and donations. • Sample activities: volunteer in the Thrift House; provide school-aged children with clothing, shoes and toiletries; hand out toys and books at Dell Children’s Medical Center; perform administrative services • Donations accepted: monetary • 4901 Burnet Road, Austin • www.assistanceleague.org/austin/volunteer Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Central Texas The organization matches children ages 6 and above with adults who serve as mentors, advocates, resources and guides. Volunteers commit to three to four times per month for a minimum of one year. • Sample activities: mentors and mentees spend quality time together in the community doing things they enjoy • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, school supplies and gift cards to major retailers $15-$25 • 4800 Manor Road, Bldg. K, Austin • www.bigmentoring.org Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area offers programs and services to help children succeed academically, develop leadership skills, and build character and healthy habits. • Sample activities: assisting in reading programs, STEM coaching or lending a hand at community events • Donations accepted: monetary and in-kind donations • 6648 Ed Bluestein Blvd., Austin • www.bgcaustin.org

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• Donations accepted: monetary • 1156 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin • www.austinpetsalive.org

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• Sample activities: Become a mentor, join “Friends of Explore Austin” group • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, in-kind gear donations • 1211 W. 6th St., Ste. 600 PMB 184 Austin • www.exploreaustin.org Girlstart This nonprofit empowers girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. • Sample activities: lead hands-on STEM activities, serve as guest speakers, write inspirational note cards • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 1400 W. Anderson Lane, Austin • www.girlstart.org Greater Austin YMCA The organization will offer seasonal volunteer opportunities across the association’s eight centers. • Sample activities: Volunteers may find themselves anywhere from the creek banks of Camp Moody to the chambers of a courthouse with the Youth & Government team. • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • Address: 55 N. I-35 Frontage Road, Austin (Association Office address) • www.austinymca.org Junior Achievement of Central Texas Part of Junior Achievement Worldwide, the Austin chapter offers programs on career readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship to children and young adults. • Sample activities: student mentorship, event setup and teardown, program presentations, one-day program assistance • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • www.jacentex.org Manos de Cristo Manos de Cristo provides immediate needs like food and clothing as well as low- to no-cost dental services and procedures for individuals that are under- or uninsured. • Sample activities: teaching classes in citizenship, English and computer literacy; working in the clothes closet, food pantry and community garden • Donations accepted: food, seasonal clothing,

monetary donations, tamale sale with proceeds used to provide emergency food and clothes

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Communities in Schools Central Texas Communities in Schools of Central Texas works to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. • Sample activities: meet with students as a Mentor, Math Buddy or Reading Buddy • Donations accepted: monetary donations, corporate sponsorships, or coordinating an in-kind drive • 3000 S. I-35, Ste. 200, Austin • www.ciscentraltexas.org Con Mi MADRE The nonprofit focuses on developing social-emotional learning and college-readiness for students in sixth grade through undergraduate years and their families. • Sample activities: events assistance, guest speaking • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 1825 Fort View Road, Austin • www.conmimadre.org Dress for Success Austin Dress for Success helps women and nonbinary people achieve economic independence by providing support, professional attire and development tools. • Sample activities: mentoring, career consulting, styling and inventory sorting • Donations: monetary donations and professional clothing accepted • 3000 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Ste. 180, Austin • www.dressforsuccessaustin.org Education Connection Education Connection works to improve childhood literacy rates by offering one-on-one educational support to children. • Sample activities: reading with students, practicing reading fluency, discussing stories and reading comprehension

• 4911 Harmon Ave., Austin • www.manosdecristo.org

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas The Central Texas Ronald McDonald House and Family Rooms offer a “home-away-from-home” for families facing a child’s illness, partnering with its Happy Wheels Carts to provide comfort items in hospitals, and the Healing Hearts program supporting bereaved families with burial assistance and grief support. • Sample activities: cooking meals or preparing sack lunches, snack kits, meals on the go and toiletry kits to pass out in hospital family rooms

• Donations accepted: monetary • 7000 N. MoPac, Ste. 200, Austin • www.rmhc-ctx.org

Food assistance

Central Texas Food Bank The food bank is the largest hunger-relief organization in Central Texas, serving over 93,000 people every week. • Sample activities: sorting food donations, assisting with the mobile food pantry, working in a community garden or kitchen • Donations accepted: monetary gifts Keep Austin Fed Keep Austin Fed is a food rescue organization that collects surplus food from businesses throughout Austin and redistributes it to communities facing hunger. • Sample activities: food rescue driver, food sorting and organizing at cooler hub, assist with community food giveaways • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • www.keepaustinfed.org • 6500 Metropolis Drive, Austin • www.centraltexasfoodbank.org

• Donations accepted: monetary • www.education-connection.org

Explore Austin The nonprofit combines mentoring with outdoor adventure to empower youth from economically disadvantaged communities.

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Caritas of Austin Derived from the Latin word meaning love or charity, Caritas of Austin aims to prevent and end homelessness in the Austin area. • Volunteer Opportunities: Serve lunch in the Community Kitchen, assemble and donate care kits, work directly with clients, provide administrative support, pick up and deliver donations • 611 Neches St., Austin • www.caritasofaustin.org The Charlie Center The homeless navigation center provides services to help individuals find permanent housing and offers hospitality and health care to meet physical needs. • Sample activities: prepare a dish and deliver it, serve food on the hospitality team, distribute mail, help set up and clean up in person • Donations accepted: monetary gifts or orders through Amazon wishlist • 12675 Research Blvd., Austin • www.thecharliecenter.org Foundation Communities The nonprofit provides affordable homes and free on-site support services. • Sample activities: Tax Help program, Learning Centers program, “Home for the Holidays” program • Donations accepted: monetary gifts

• 3000 S. I-35 frontage road, Ste. 300, Austin • www.foundcom.org LifeWorks

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Mobile Loaves & Fishes This nonprofit’s mission is to provide food and clothing, cultivate community, and promote dignity to those in need. • Sample activities: organize, prepare and deliver meals at the St. John Neumann Commissary. Opportunities at the Community First! Village include gardening, prepping micro homes and more.

LifeWorks focuses on youth homelessness by providing housing, workforce, education and mental health services. • Sample activities: redecorating homes, gardening, landscape cleanup, gift card drives • Donations accepted: monetary (cash, stock, grocery and food gift cards) • 835 N. Pleasant Valley Road, Austin • www.lifeworksaustin.org The SAFE Alliance SAFE is an Austin-based nonprofit organization that supports survivors of child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence and sex trafficking in Central Texas. • Sample activities: create hygiene kits, lead an activity with children whose families are in SAFE shelter/ housing, stock shelves in the warehouse, help SAFE coordinate a fundraising event • Donations accepted: monetary, in-kind gifts at 1515 Grove Blvd., Austin, or 4800 Manor Road, Austin • www.safeaustin.org The Salvation Army The Salvation Army has been in Austin since 1889. Best known for its Red Kettles, Family Stores and disaster relief efforts, the organization is also the largest

• Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 9301 Hog Eye Road, Ste. 950, Austin • www.mlf.org

Housing support

Austin Habitat for Humanity The nonprofit is dedicated to building and rehabilitating homes for low- to moderate-income families. It also operates ReStores, which sells donated home goods. • Sample activities: constructing new homes; working on home repair projects; volunteering at any ReStore location and donation centers • Donations accepted: gently used or new building supplies, appliances, furniture, home goods, clothes, electronics, etc. • 500 W. Ben White Blvd., Austin • www.austinhabitat.org

A Magical Holiday Drive-Through Experience at Circuit of the americas

New Mini Golf!

Kid’s Rides

Miles of Lights

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nonprofit provider of family shelter in Travis County. Other relevant programs include the Angel Tree holiday toy drive and Back to School supply and clothing drive. • Sample activities: tutoring in shelter, bell ringing, Angel Tree volunteering • Donations accepted: donations through online wish lists at www.doingmostgood.org/wish, Angel Tree donations at 6510 S. Congress Ave. warehouse, clothing and used item donations at 4216 S. Congress Ave. thrift store • 4700 Manor Road, Austin • www.doingmostgood.org/vol Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center Sunrise offers pathways to housing for people experiencing homelessness through low-barrier access to wraparound services. The organization has helped more than 4,275 households move into safe, supportive housing and serves more than 8,000 people each year. • Sample activities: sorting donations, assembling hygiene kits, making first aid kits, hanging clothing, serving in the cafe • Donations accepted: monetary and in-kind gifts • 4430 Menchaca Road, Austin • www.sunrisenavigationcenter.org

Senior services and medical care

We Are Blood The guardian of the community blood supply serves over 50 medical facilities and emergency medical services agencies in Central Texas. • Sample activities: assist at blood drives and events;

serve refreshments at centers and drives; provide office support; transport blood donations • Donations accepted: blood and platelet donations; monetary gifts • 4300 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.weareblood.org

Senior services and medical care

Alzheimer’s Texas The group seeks to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research and to enhance care and support for those with the disease, their families and caregivers. • Sample activities: facilitating support groups, planning special events, representing the nonprofit at health fairs, serving as advocates and social media ambassadors American Heart Association The national organization works to fight heart disease and stroke through research funding and education. • Sample activities: events preparation and day- of assistance, tabling at community events, presentations, communications support • Donations accepted: monetary • 12345 N. Lamar Blvd., Ste. 200, Austin • www.heart.org • Donations accepted: monetary • 7000 N. MoPac, Ste. 200, Austin • www.txalz.org Chariot Chariot helps nondriving seniors by providing transportation and socialization opportunities. Round trips typically take around two to three hours and around an hour for a one-way drop-off. • Sample activities: volunteers drive seniors to medical appointments, grocery stores, libraries, shopping centers, restaurants and local events. • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • www.chariot.org Drive a Senior-ATX Drive a Senior-ATX enables older adults to live independently, avoid social isolation, age in place and enhance quality of life by providing free transportation and other support services. • Sample activities: drive seniors to appointments,

• Sample activities: provide home meal deliveries, operate senior lunch and activity centers, in-home care services, help with home repairs, assist with grocery shopping • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 3227 E. Fifth St., Austin • www.mealsonwheelscentraltexas.org Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas This regional nonprofit serves thousands of patients each month with health care, such as birth control, breast and cervical cancer screenings, annual wellness exams, and more. • Sample activities: period supply kit assembly events, book clubs, workshops, tabling at local outreach events, supporting organization events, social media content creation • Donations accepted: monetary gifts, period kit supplies • 201 E. Ben White Blvd., Bldg. B, Austin • www.ppgreatertx.org Swan Songs Musical Last Wishes Swan Songs fulfills musical last wishes by organizing private concerts for individuals with a terminal illness or nearing the end of life. At no cost to the family, a favorite style of music or regional musician is brought directly to the home or care facility. Swan Songs compensates its musicians for each performance. • Sample activities: concert liaison, event volunteer, administrative support • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • www.swansongs.org

assist them with groceries and participate in weekly phone conservations known as friendly caller, among other services

• Donations accepted: monetary • 2601 Exposition Blvd., Austin • www.driveasenioratx.org

Health Alliance for Austin Musicians Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, or HAAM, provides access to affordable health care for the Austin area’s low-income working musicians, with a focus on prevention and wellness. • Sample activities: collect donations and raise awareness at community events, support HAAM events, deliver items to providers and sponsors,

various administrative tasks and more • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 3036 S. First St., Austin • www.myhaam.org

Hospice Austin Hospice Austin provides care to any person with a life expectancy of six months or less. The organization cares for anyone in the community who needs its services regardless of insurance status, income or ability to pay. • Sample activities: Hospice Austin welcomes volunteers to provide companionship to patients and families and as well volunteers with special skills, such as acupuncturists, hair stylists, massage therapists,

musicians and pet therapy experts. • Donations accepted: monetary gifts • 4107 Spicewood Springs Road, Austin • www.hospiceaustin.org

Meals on Wheels Central Texas The nonprofit distributes 3,000 meals every business day to homebound older adults and people living with disabilities across Travis and Williamson counties.

This list is not comprehensive.

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