Fannin County, Texas -- District Attorney Richard Glaser and the Fannin County Ministerial Alliance have partnered to sponsor “Getting Ahead in a Just Gettin’-by-World”.  This program is designed to help people in poverty build resources for a better life.  Participants are called investigators, and the class takes them through 16 weeks of self and community assessment with the goal of planning a future that brings stability to themselves and their families. 

On Monday, November 18, the class centered on community assessment.  Investigators had the opportunity to interview community leaders and professionals about various conditions of our community in nine subject areas. 

Economic conditions were addressed by Mark Kinnaird, Director of Community Development for the City of Bonham. Melody Michaud and Lisa Williams from Texoma Housing Partners provided insight into local Housing conditions. Financial/Banking conditions were covered by Ann Rodriguez of Fannin Federal Credit Union, and Delano Smith from TCOG lent his expertise in the area of Jobs, Wages, and Wealth. 

Protection from Predators was tackled by District Attorney Richard Glaser. Dr. Faith-Ann Cheek, Assistant Superintendent of Bonham ISD, was on hand to discuss Education conditions, while Attorney Michael Evans focused on Public Sector conditions to include the tax base and governmental services. Deloris Clemons from the Fannin Health Clinic shared information regarding Health conditions. County Judge Randy Moore rounded out the panel with his perceptions of Leadership conditions in our area. 

The evening provided the eight dedicated Getting Ahead investigators a chance to learn first-hand about community resources, in addition to establishing vital one-on-one contact with community leaders who can help them on their way.  In turn, the community leaders were able to hear firsthand about some of the barriers the investigators face in their daily lives. 

Getting Ahead sponsor, Richard Glaser said, “The relationships and mutual respect that were established during this session will have a far-reaching impact for the investigators and our community."