HOUSTON — Non-profit workers are in fear for their safety after a tear of property damage in Houston’s Third Ward.
Running a non-profit isn’t an easy task.
“We’re always looking for volunteers. We’re always looking for donations and books for our box,” said CSTEM CEO Dr. Reagan Flowers.
Dr. Flowers started CSTEM 15 years ago on Alabama Street. Its mission is to inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders by engaging them in exciting hands-on projects solving real world problems.
“People ask me all the time, you can have an office anywhere else, why are you here? I love this place it’s community, and that community matters,” Dr. Flowers said.
With that much passion, the thought of being targeted by criminals has the educator questioning her every move.
“I’ve never been afraid until now,” Dr. Flowers said.
On Monday, Dr. Flowers came to work and noticed the fence around her neighborhood library book box was damaged. Then, she realized her new neighbors have been running a water hose to her property, flooding her back yard. On Tuesday, Dr. Flowers talked to her neighbors about the issue.
“We were shocked this morning when upon arrival to the office, my staff found the window of our back door shattered,” Dr. Flowers said. “I do feel like the actions of the neighbors are retaliatory.”
Houston Police are investigating, and Dr. Flowers is talking to her neighbor’s landlord.
“The landlord has said that he’s on my side and whatever we need to do, we’ll do, but that was a conversation and I’m still waiting for action,” Dr. Flowers said.
While she waits, the community is stepping in. Someone donated a door Thursday afternoon, and CSTEM is holding a community rally at 11 a.m. Saturday to support the non-profit.
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