About Us
Our History
The vision for IMPACT CENTER was born out of a response to the significant disparities in education, economics, housing, health, and policing in East Arlington. The concept originated after serving on a unity council, which aimed to address these issues in the community. At the time, East Arlington was struggling, ranking last in positive areas and leading in negative ones. The area’s current building was once an eyesore, becoming a haven for homelessness and illegal drug activity. Through collaboration and the pooling of resources by community partners, the IMPACT CENTER was established as a transformative hub for positive change.
More about our history
Historical Overview of the IMPACT Center of Arlington
The IMPACT Center of Arlington was founded in 2021 in response to the growing need for community-focused services in East Arlington. Recognizing the challenges faced by local residents—particularly in education, economic stability, and youth development—community leaders and visionaries united to create a space that fosters personal and collective growth.
Established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the IMPACT Center’s mission is to promote community engagement and empowerment through collaboration. From its humble beginnings, it has grown into a dynamic organization, addressing critical needs and offering transformative programs to individuals and families across Arlington.
Key Milestones and Achievements
1. Founding Vision and Mission (2021)
The IMPACT Center was created to be a beacon of hope for underserved communities, focusing on education, economic empowerment, and holistic development. It quickly gained traction, thanks to grassroots efforts and a commitment to collaboration.
2. Health & Wellness Initiatives (2022)
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Center introduced health and wellness programs, including mental health services, fitness classes, and telehealth resources. These initiatives were vital in supporting the community’s physical and emotional well-being during challenging times.
3. Economic Empowerment Programs (2023)
A defining feature of the Center’s growth has been its emphasis on economic stability. The launch of financial literacy programs, job training, and entrepreneurship workshops has empowered residents to build sustainable careers and businesses.
4. Launch of the R.E.A.C.H. Initiative (2024)
The R.E.A.C.H. initiative became the cornerstone of the Center’s programming, focusing on six pillars:
- Recreation
- Entrepreneurship
- Economic Empowerment
- Adult Literacy
- Civic Engagement
- Health & Wellness
This comprehensive approach has directly benefited hundreds of families each year, addressing both immediate and long-term community needs.
5. Facility Growth and Expansion (2025)
In 2025, the IMPACT Center celebrated the grand opening of its new facility at 3120 E. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, Texas. This state-of-the-art location features expanded classrooms, community event spaces, and areas dedicated to health and wellness programs, further enhancing its capacity to serve.
Leadership and Organizational Development
The IMPACT Center has been fortunate to attract strong, visionary leadership throughout its history. In November 2025, the organization welcomed Ashley Foster as its new Executive Director. With a proven track record in nonprofit management and community development, Foster is poised to lead the IMPACT Center into its next phase of growth, ensuring the sustainability and expansion of its programs.
Community Impact and Partnerships
- Youth Development: The Center has provided afterschool programs, mentorship initiatives, and summer camps to equip young people with essential life skills.
- Collaborations: Strategic partnerships with organizations like Bonton Farm and South Dallas Driving Academy have expanded opportunities in education, housing, and workforce development.
- Recognition: Awards for innovation and leadership have highlighted the Center’s commitment to excellence in community service.
Through these efforts, the IMPACT Center has become a trusted resource and catalyst for positive social change in Arlington. With a strong foundation, dedicated leadership, and innovative programs, it is well-positioned to continue making a profound difference in the community for years to come.
Our Mission
We are a community whose people achieve their fullest potential through education, financial stability, and healthy lives together.
Our Target Area Profile
Demographics and Population
Description
Population: 33,500 (approx.)
Ethnicity: 60% Hispanic, 20% African American, 15% White, 5% Other
Median Age: 30 years
Needs
Culturally diverse programs, youth-focused initiatives, and services catering to immigrant families.
Income Level
Description
Median Household Income: $37,000 (compared to the Arlington average of $58,502)
Poverty Rate: 23% (above the national average)
Needs
Programs that offer financial literacy, employment support, and economic assistance.
Education
Description
High School Graduation Rate: 68% (compared to the state average of 90%)
College Degree Holders: 12% (compared to the state average of 30%)
Needs
After-school tutoring, GED programs, career readiness initiatives, and parental involvement programs.
Employment
Description
Unemployment Rate: 8% (compared to the national average of 3.8%)
Many employed in retail, construction, and hospitality industries
Needs
Vocational training, job placement services, and entrepreneurial development programs.
Housing
Description
Median Rent: $900/month
Homeownership Rate: 38% (compared to 62% in Arlington)
Significant proportion of older homes needing repairs
Needs
Affordable housing programs, homeownership education, housing subsidies, and neighborhood revitalization efforts.
Crime Rate
Description
Violent Crime Rate: 759 per 100,000 (compared to 379 national average)
Property Crime Rate: 3,500 per 100,000 (higher than city and national averages)
Needs
Neighborhood safety initiatives, collaboration with law enforcement, youth violence prevention, and rehabilitation programs.
Youth Education Support
Description
Schools are underfunded and serve a population with a 43% drop-out rate (above the state average). Many students come from low-income households.
Needs
Mentorship, tutoring, after-school programs, college readiness, and youth development initiatives.
Healthcare Access
Description
Uninsured Rate: 29% (compared to the national average of 8.6%)
Limited access to primary care providers and clinics in the area
Needs
Affordable healthcare clinics, insurance assistance programs, and health literacy initiatives.
Mental Health Services
Description
Mental Health Provider Rate: 60 providers per 100,000 residents (compared to the national average of 211 providers)
Needs
Mental health outreach, counseling services, and stress management programs.
Food Security
Description
Food Insecurity Rate: 19% of households struggle with food insecurity (compared to the national average of 11%)
Needs
Nutrition education, community gardens, food distribution services, and meal assistance programs.
Job Training and Career Development
Description
Median Income for Low-Wage Jobs: $24,000/year (compared to the Arlington median of $58,502)
Limited access to job training and advancement opportunities
Needs
Vocational training, entrepreneurial education, job placement, and career readiness workshops.
Affordable Childcare
Description
Childcare Cost: $8,000/year (compared to the local average income of $37,000)
Many parents rely on informal childcare arrangements
Needs
Accessible and affordable daycare programs, after-school care, and parent support services.
Community Safety
Description
Crime Hotspots concentrated in specific neighborhoods. Higher-than-average gang activity and drug-related crime rates.
Needs
Neighborhood watch groups, safety awareness programs, youth outreach, and police-community partnerships.
Immigrant and Refugee Support
Description
Foreign-Born Population: 35%
Limited English Proficiency: 27% of households report not speaking English well.
Needs
ESL (English as a Second Language) classes, legal aid for immigration, citizenship workshops, and social integration programs.
Cultural and Recreational Programs
Description
Lack of recreational facilities, arts programs, and cultural activities for youth and families.
Needs
Arts, sports, cultural festivals, and recreational programs that foster community engagement and personal development.
Public Transportation
Description
Public Transit Reliance: 15% of households do not have access to a private vehicle
Bus routes are limited, with inconsistent schedules.
Needs
Expanded public transit routes, transportation assistance, and carpooling programs.
Infrastructure
Description
Road Condition: Many roads in disrepair, limited sidewalks, and lack of street lighting in certain neighborhoods.
Needs
Investment in roads, sidewalks, parks, and public facilities to improve overall quality of life.
This table includes real figures and statistics where available, providing a clearer understanding of the current state of the 76010 area and surrounding regions, and the pressing needs within the community.