New Café Provides Vocational Training, Real-World Work Experience and Greater Independence for Adults with Special Needs

SPRING, TEXAS — TEAM Abilities is bringing something new to the table with the opening of TEAM Café, a community café where Every Order Creates Opportunity. Located inside The Antique Gallery of Houston in Spring, the new café will provide TEAM Abilities' TEAM Members with intellectual and developmental disabilities opportunities to gain real-world vocational experience while learning skills in food preparation, customer service, stocking, cleaning, teamwork and the everyday responsibilities of the workplace.

“I have always wanted a restaurant environment where we could train our TEAM Members who would like to work, learn new skills and enjoy a new level of independence,” said Rachel Jelks, Founder & CEO of TEAM Abilities and owner of TEAM Café. “At last, we have created the right mix of opportunity and location.”

Located in the heart of The Antique Gallery of Houston, TEAM Café will offer shoppers a welcoming place to relax and recharge without ever leaving the Gallery. Visitors can start their shopping adventure with a cup of coffee and a Danish, stop midway for a convenient Lunch Box Combo, or settle in and enjoy a scrumptious dine-in lunch before heading back out to continue exploring the Gallery.

And there is plenty to explore. The Antique Gallery of Houston is one of the largest antique malls in Texas, encompassing approximately 85,000 square feet and nearly 250 independent dealers. Shoppers can spend hours browsing an ever-changing collection of antiques, vintage and estate jewelry, furniture, art, books, collectibles, home décor and one-of-a-kind finds—making TEAM Café a natural gathering place in the heart of the shopping experience.

Whether guests stop in for coffee, grab lunch to go or sit down for a casual meal, every purchase has a purpose. TEAM Café will give TEAM Members opportunities to practice workplace skills, interact with customers, build confidence, contribute as part of a team and experience greater independence.

“For the Gallery customer, they can shop, eat, relax and shop some more. For our TEAM Members, they can learn, work, grow and gain independence,” said Jelks. “That’s pretty exciting for all of us.”

TEAM Café will be staffed by an experienced General Manager and support staff working alongside TEAM Abilities' TEAM Members.

The TEAM Café axiom says it all: EVERY ORDER CREATES OPPORTUNITY.

For more information about TEAM Abilities or TEAM Café, contact Donna Wick at 832-790-2879 or visit MyTEAMAbilities.com.

TEAM stands for Together Everyone Achieves More.

TEAM Abilities

T.E.A.M. Abilities is an HCS Provider serving adults with special needs through ISS/Day Habilitation and Community Living/Residential care.

Seven-year-old 2027 Miss Yellow Rose State Ultimate USA Princess Encourages Children and Families to “Shine Bright Through Reading” While Honoring Dolly Parton’s Legacy of Literacy

SPRING, TEXAS — Seven-year-old Spring native Emma-Jean Jelks is proving that you’re never too young to make a difference in your community.

As part of her 2027 Miss Yellow Rose State Ultimate USA Princess platform, SHINE BRIGHT THROUGH READING, Emma-Jean has launched her own community Library Bench — Take a Book, Leave a Book Station in Spring, Texas, inviting children and families to discover new worlds, new ideas and even more about themselves through the gift of reading.

The concept is simple: Take a book. Enjoy it. Leave a book for someone else. Keep the stories moving.

Emma’s project has taken on additional meaning following the recent passing of legendary entertainer and philanthropist Dolly Parton, whose commitment to childhood literacy through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library put millions of books into the hands of children. Founded in 1995, the Imagination Library was created to foster a love of reading by providing books to young children regardless of family income.

In recognition of that legacy, Emma-Jean has dedicated a special area of her Library Bench to the message: “BE A DOLLY.”

The idea encourages others to follow Parton’s example in their own way—not necessarily by reaching millions of children, but by helping create a love of reading within their own families, neighborhoods and circles of influence.

“Emma has always loved books,” said her mother, Rachel Jelks. “In light of Dolly’s passing and her incredible passion for reading, we wanted to make this commitment to our local community as well. Everyone has an opportunity to shine bright through reading.”

Emma-Jean is an enthusiastic reader herself and particularly enjoys books featuring Bible stories. Among her favorites are stories that help bring her faith to life, including the story of Jesus walking on water.

Through SHINE BRIGHT THROUGH READING, Emma-Jean hopes her Library Bench becomes more than a place to exchange books. She wants it to become a place where children discover that reading can open doors to imagination, knowledge, faith, confidence and a much bigger world.

And Emma’s invitation to her community is wonderfully simple:

Bring a book. Take a book. Read a book. Share a book.

Because every book passed from one pair of hands to another has the opportunity to begin a brand-new story.

SHINE BRIGHT THROUGH READING.

For more information about Emma-Jean Jelks, the location of her Library Bench book exchange and/or her SHINE BRIGHT THROUGH READING platform or the Library Bench project, contact Donna Wick at 832-790-2879.

ALL-AROUND BESTIE CHELSEA EDWARDS OF FOX 26 NEWS HEADLINES SPECIAL NEEDS PAGEANT

“Chattin’ with Chelsea” host to emcee TEAM Abilities’ Sparkle & Shine All Abilities Pageant

CONROE, TEXAS — She’s known for conversation, connection and bringing plenty of personality to Houston television. Now Chelsea Edwards, FOX 26 News talk host and host of Chattin’ with Chelsea, is bringing that energy to a very special stage as emcee of the Sparkle & Shine All Abilities Pageant, Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Conroe.

Dubbed an “all-around bestie,” Edwards will help contestants of all ages and all abilities celebrate what makes each of them uniquely worthy of their moment in the spotlight.

Hosted by TEAM Abilities and Sparkle Events, Sparkle & Shine was created around one simple idea: everyone deserves to be seen, celebrated and respected.

“Confidence may look different on everyone, but all are worthy of confidence and respect,” said Rachel Jelks, Founder and Executive Director of TEAM Abilities. “Having Chelsea join us makes the day even more special. Her warmth and ability to connect with people are exactly what Sparkle & Shine is about.”

Every contestant will receive a crown and sash, and festivities will include the “I AM CONFIDENT” Sashes Craft Station, snacks and a light lunch buffet. The contestant entry fee is $25, and vendors are welcomed.  All attendees, free of charge. The pageant will be held at the new TEAM Abilities location, 8448 Hwy 242, Conroe, Texas 77385.

ALL ABILITIES. ALL IMPORTANT. SHINE BRIGHT!

For contestant registration, vendor opportunities or additional information, call or text Donna at 832-790-2879. For more information on TEAM Abilities, go to www.MyTeamAbilities.com.

TEAM Abilities Turns the Traditional Job Fair Into a “Golden Ticket Hiring Party”

TEAM Abilities invites job seekers to come for the fun and stay for their future — with prizes, giveaways and employment opportunities

SPRING, TEXAS — Finding a new job doesn't have to feel like a job.

TEAM Abilities is putting a new spin on traditional recruiting with its Golden Ticket Hiring Party, scheduled for Thursday, August 27, from 5–7 p.m. at TEAM Abilities' new location at 8448 Hwy 242, Conroe, TX 77385.

The casual hiring event is designed to remove some of the pressure of a traditional job fair and give prospective employees an opportunity to meet the TEAM Abilities staff, learn about the organization and explore employment opportunities in a welcoming, upbeat environment.

“We don't want this to feel like walking into an intimidating job interview,” said Rachel Jelks, Executive Director & Founder for TEAM Abilities. “We want people to come in, meet us, learn about the work we do and discover whether TEAM might be the right place for them. You may walk in looking for a job and discover a career that matters.”

TEAM Abilities serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through community-based programs and services. Employees have the opportunity to become part of the daily lives of the individuals TEAM serves—helping them participate, engage, develop independence and enjoy meaningful experiences within their community. There are several positions open for immediate employment, such as: Group Home Direct Care Staff, Day Hab Caregiver, Appointment Runners, Care Coordinators and more. All positions require an active Driver's License. All employees are paid weekly.

The Golden Ticket Hiring Party will combine recruiting with a little celebration. Attendees will have opportunities for prizes including gas cards, grocery cards, restaurant cards and additional giveaways, along with an “Extravagant Grand Prize.”

The event's message says it simply:

“Come for fun. Stay for your future.”

TEAM Abilities is particularly interested in meeting individuals who enjoy working with people, bring energy and compassion to their work, and are interested in making a meaningful difference in the lives of adults with special needs. They are looking for heart, kindness and compassion and will train for the actual position - experience is not necessary.

Rather than relying solely on applications and résumés, the Hiring Party gives both prospective employees and TEAM Abilities an opportunity to meet face-to-face.

“Some of the qualities that make someone extraordinary at this work don't necessarily show up on a résumé,” Jelks said. “Kindness, patience, reliability, enthusiasm and the ability to genuinely connect with another human being matter tremendously to us. Sometimes you need to meet someone to recognize that.”

The Golden Ticket Hiring Party is open to individuals interested in learning more about employment opportunities with TEAM Abilities.

EVENT DETAILS

TEAM Abilities Golden Ticket Hiring Party
Thursday, August 27 | 5–7 p.m.
TEAM Abilities
8448 Hwy 242
Conroe, TX 77385

Possible prizes include gas cards, grocery cards, restaurant cards, additional giveaways and an Extravagant Grand Prize.

ABOUT TEAM ABILITIES

Established in 2010, T.E.A.M. Abilities is an HCS Provider serving adults with special needs through ISS and Community Living care. TEAM Abilities is committed to creating opportunities for the individuals it serves to participate, connect and live meaningful lives within their community.

Inspiring Evening for Women Set for May 27 at Hungry’s in Rice Village

The Ladies Lifestyle Network will host an empowering evening for women on Wednesday, May 27 at 5:30 PM at Hungry's Cafe in Rice Village with the theme: “From Stuck to Unstoppable.”

Featured guest for the evening will be Chelsea Edwards of “Chattin’ with Chelsea” on FOX 26 Houston. Known for her vibrant personality, community involvement, and engaging storytelling style, Edwards has become one of Houston’s recognizable media voices through her spotlighting of inspiring people, businesses, nonprofits, and uplifting stories throughout the city. Her participation in the event brings an exciting media and community connection element to the evening.

Also appearing will be Shelly Willwee, President and CEO of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Millwee is known for her impactful leadership in helping create life-changing experiences for children facing critical illnesses and their families. Through her work with Make-A-Wish, she continues to champion hope, encouragement, and the power of community support during difficult life journeys.

The evening will also feature special guest Theresa Roemer — internationally recognized entrepreneur, philanthropist, fitness expert, motivational speaker, and creator of the world’s largest closet. Roemer is widely known for inspiring women through her story of perseverance, reinvention, confidence, and entrepreneurial success.

The event is hosted by Donna Wick, CEO of DW OMNIMEDIA LLC and City Director for the Ladies Lifestyle Network.

“The reason I decided to step in as City Director for the Ladies Lifestyle Network is that I wanted to provide a place of connection for women,” said Donna Wick. “This isn’t just about collecting business cards for the evening. It’s about being inspired, finding your voice, and elevating your purpose in life. Each meeting is designed to encourage, inspire, and renew a sense of vision for all women.”

The event offers opportunities for:

• photographers
• vendors
• sponsors
• nonprofits
• entrepreneurs
• and women seeking meaningful connection and inspiration.

Guests will enjoy an elevated networking atmosphere with food and beverages available throughout the evening. Hungry’s also offers valet parking for attendees.

Registration information can be found at:
Ladies Lifestyle Network Registration Page

About Ladies Lifestyle Network

The Ladies Lifestyle Network is a community-centered women’s networking organization focused on connection, collaboration, inspiration, leadership, and personal growth through engaging events and meaningful relationships.

For more information, call Donna Wick at 832-790-2879.