﻿<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><rss xmlns:a10="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"><channel><title>Calendar</title><link>https://springtx.bubblelife.com/community/houston_calendar</link><description>Calendar</description><item><link>https://springtx.bubblelife.com/community/houston_calendar/library/35239560/key/3516427950/10222026_1000_AM_CST_BUILD_YOUR_FUTURE_IN_HEALTHCARE_FREE_WORKSHOP_OPE</link><author>Donna Wick</author><category>Houston Events</category><title>10/22/2026 10:00 AM (CST) BUILD YOUR FUTURE IN HEALTHCARE: FREE WORKSHOP OPE</title><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt; &lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;i&gt;TEAM Abilities Founder Rachel Jelks Shares 16 Years of Experience Helping Aspiring Entrepreneurs Explore Opportunities in the Growing Disability Services Industry&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;i&gt;&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;HOUSTON, TEXAS  October 19, 2026  You don't have to be a doctor or nurse to build a future in healthcare. For aspiring entrepreneurs looking for financial independence, a career change, or the opportunity to own a business that makes a meaningful difference, one of the most rewarding opportunities may be in an industry they have never considered.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;On Thursday, October 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Houston entrepreneur Rachel Jelks, founder of TEAM Abilities, will host DREAM IT. DO IT., a FREE, hands-on workshop introducing participants to the business of providing residential and community-based services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The workshop will be held at 140 Cypress Station Drive, Conference Room, Houston, Texas 77090, near FM 1960 and Interstate 45. A light lunch will be provided.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For Jelks, what began as an entrepreneurial venture in 2010 has grown into TEAM Abilities, an established Texas Home and Community-based Services (HCS) provider operating 20 Community Living homes in Harris and Montgomery counties, along with a high-engagement daytime program.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Now, she wants to help others discover the possibilities of building their own businesses in this essential service industry thru her mentorship program.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Across Texas and the nation, families continue to seek dependable, compassionate services for loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The need for qualified providers creates an opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in building businesses that offer more than a financial return. These businesses can also create jobs, strengthen communities, and improve the everyday lives of people who depend on quality care.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Unlike traditional business ventures built around selling products, residential and community-based care agencies provide ongoing services that support individuals in living fuller, more independent lives.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;But entering the industry requires more than good intentions.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Licensing and regulatory requirements, staffing, financial preparation, daily operations, and quality-of-care standards all play important roles in establishing a successful agency.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;That's where Jelks believes her experience can make a difference.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;DREAM IT. DO IT. is designed to take participants beyond inspiration and into the practical realities of starting a business in the disability services industry.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The interactive workshop is organized around four essential areas:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;WHAT IT TAKES: Understanding the requirements, responsibilities, staffing, and regulatory considerations of operating a care agency.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;WHAT IT COSTS: Exploring startup expenses, financial planning, operating costs, and the capital needed to establish and sustain a business.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;WHO CAN HELP YOU GET STARTED: Learning about Jelks' mentorship program and the guidance available to aspiring agency owners.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;HOW TO BEGIN: Participating in hands-on exercises to identify goals, available resources, and practical next steps.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Participants will also have the opportunity to hear about the experiences of others who have pursued agency ownership through Jelks' mentorship.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Let my experience lead you, says Jelks. Every week I get calls from those that want to duplicate what we are doing at TEAM Abilities. I tell them it is no secret and the opportunity to serve is certainly there. But there is a system that we have mastered here that can help you enter into this exciting world while also avoiding some of the pitfalls.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For individuals feeling limited by their current careers, interested in entrepreneurship, or simply searching for a more meaningful way to earn a living, the workshop offers an introduction to a field that combines business management with service to others.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;No previous experience operating a disability services agency is necessary to attend.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;While agency ownership requires financial investment, commitment, regulatory compliance, and careful business planning, Jelks believes understanding the process is the first step toward determining whether the opportunity is right for you.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For those ready to explore a different kind of future, DREAM IT. DO IT. offers a place to start.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;EVENT DETAILS&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;DREAM IT. DO IT.  FREE Financial Empowerment Workshop&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Thursday, October 22, 2026&lt;br /&gt; 10 a.m.  2 p.m.&lt;br /&gt; 140 Cypress Station Drive, Conference Room&lt;br /&gt; Houston, Texas 77090&lt;br /&gt; Near FM 1960 and Interstate 45&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Admission: FREE&lt;br /&gt; Lunch: Light lunch provided&lt;br /&gt; Format: Interactive, hands-on workshop&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;TO REGISTER: Call or text Donna Wick at 832-790-2879.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;i&gt;ABOUT RACHEL JELKS AND TEAM ABILITIES&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;i&gt;Rachel Jelks is the founder of TEAM Abilities, a Texas Home and Community-based Services (HCS) provider serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through residential and daytime support services. TEAM Abilities currently operates 20 Community Living homes throughout Harris and Montgomery counties and a high-engagement day program. Through her entrepreneurial mentorship program, Jelks shares her experience and business knowledge with individuals interested in establishing agencies in the disability services industry.&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="https://houston.bubblelife.com/viewimage/key/3561167822/dream_it_do_it_conference_flyer.png?w=512&amp;h=384"&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description><pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 10:00:00 Z</pubDate></item><item><link>https://springtx.bubblelife.com/community/houston_calendar/library/35239560/key/3516427983/10312026_1000_AM_CST_FREE_Sensory-Friendly_Trunk-or-Treat_Celebration</link><author>Donna Wick</author><category>Houston Events</category><title>10/31/2026 10:00 AM (CST) FREE, Sensory-Friendly Trunk-or-Treat Celebration</title><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;CALLING ALL SUPERHEROES! TEAM ABILITIES SEEKS FAMILIES, VENDORS AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPANTS FOR THE GREAT PUMPKIN ADVENTURE&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;CONROE, TEXAS  October 19, 2026  Calling all superheroes! Whether you wear a cape, drive a Batmobile, possess extraordinary decorating skills, or simply have a heart for making others smile, TEAM Abilities has a mission for you!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;TEAM Abilities is inviting families, businesses, community organizations, vendors, and volunteers to participate in THE GREAT PUMPKIN ADVENTURE, a FREE, superhero-themed, all-abilities Trunk-or-Treat celebration on Saturday, October 31, from 10 a.m. to noon, at TEAM Abilities, 8448 Highway 242 in Conroe.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Designed to bring together individuals of all abilities for a morning of Halloween excitement, the event will feature superhero-inspired trunks, games, music, a costume parade, golden pumpkins, prizes, and plenty of treats.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;And the best part? Everyone is invited, and everyone can be a hero!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;SUPERHEROES WANTED!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;TEAM Abilities is currently recruiting businesses, organizations, families, and individuals to participate by decorating their vehicles and distributing treats to attendees.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Participants are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild with superhero-inspired trunk themes, including Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, Spider-Man, The Incredibles, everyday heroes, first responders, princesses with superpowers, comic book favorites, and even superhero pets.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The event also welcomes vendors interested in joining the celebration and connecting with families throughout the community.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Our goal is to create an event where everyone feels included, celebrated, and part of something wonderful, says Rachel Jelks, founder of TEAM Abilities. We want to see businesses, families, and community organizations come together, decorate their trunks, dress up, and help us create a morning filled with excitement and happiness for the people we serve and our neighbors.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;A HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE WHERE EVERYONE BELONGS&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Unlike traditional Halloween celebrations that can sometimes be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities or developmental disabilities, THE GREAT PUMPKIN ADVENTURE is designed with inclusion in mind.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The event will offer a welcoming, sensory-friendly atmosphere where children and adults of all abilities can participate in the festivities.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;TEAM Abilities provides residential and daytime support services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, making inclusive community experiences an important part of the organization's mission.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;For the individuals we serve, being included in community celebrations is incredibly important, says Jelks. We want our Team Members to experience all the fun and excitement of Halloween alongside their families, friends, and neighbors. Events like this remind us that inclusion isn't something we simply talk about. It's something we create together.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;FIND A GOLDEN PUMPKIN AND WIN A GREAT PRIZE!&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Adding to the excitement, attendees will have an opportunity to search for special golden pumpkins and win prizes.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;The morning will also feature games, music, a superhero costume parade, and plenty of opportunities for photographs and Halloween memories.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Costumes are encouraged but not required, and attendees are welcome to arrive dressed as their favorite superhero, comic book character, princess, or everyday hero.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Even four-legged superheroes are welcome!&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;BE PART OF THE ADVENTURE&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;TEAM Abilities is inviting the community to participate in three ways:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;ATTEND: Families, children, adults, and individuals of all abilities are invited to enjoy this FREE Halloween celebration.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;PARTICIPATE: Businesses, organizations, community groups, and individuals are encouraged to decorate a superhero-themed trunk and distribute treats.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;JOIN AS A VENDOR: Local vendors are invited to participate in the festivities and connect with the community.&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;
&lt;p&gt;We believe everybody has something special to contribute, says Jelks. You don't need superpowers to make a difference. Sometimes all it takes is showing up, sharing a smile, and helping someone have a wonderful day. That's what this event is all about.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;EVENT DETAILS&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;THE GREAT PUMPKIN ADVENTURE&lt;br /&gt; An All-Abilities Superhero Trunk-or-Treat&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Saturday, October 31, 2026&lt;br /&gt; 10 a.m.  Noon&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;TEAM Abilities&lt;br /&gt; 8448 Highway 242&lt;br /&gt; Conroe, Texas 77385&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Admission: FREE&lt;br /&gt; Activities: Superhero Trunks, Games, Music, Golden Pumpkins, Prizes and Costume Parade&lt;br /&gt; Atmosphere: Sensory-Friendly and Inclusive&lt;br /&gt; Attendees: All Ages and All Abilities Welcome&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;TO RSVP, PARTICIPATE OR INQUIRE ABOUT VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES:&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;Call or text Donna Wick at 832-790-2879.&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;i&gt;ABOUT TEAM ABILITIES&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&lt;i&gt;TEAM Abilities is a Texas Home and Community-based Services (HCS) provider serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through residential Community Living services and Individualized Skills and Socialization (ISS) daytime programming. Founded by Rachel Jelks in 2010, TEAM Abilities currently operates 20 Community Living homes throughout Harris and Montgomery counties and a high-engagement day program in Conroe, Texas. Dedicated to enhancing quality of life, promoting independence, and encouraging community inclusion, TEAM Abilities creates meaningful opportunities for adults with special needs to learn, grow, connect, and thrive.&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="https://houston.bubblelife.com/viewimage/key/3561167361/trunk_or_treat_2026_2_.jpg?w=512&amp;h=384"&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description><pubDate>Sat, 31 Oct 2026 10:00:00 Z</pubDate></item></channel></rss>