The "Unleash your imagination" contest took a unique approach to teaching children about animal care and safety. Our program combines hands-on learning experiences with a fun and imaginative atmosphere. We believe that every child has the potential to become a lifelong animal lover and advocate. Let us "SPARC" their imagination and help them develop a deep understanding of the incredible bond between humans and animals. The student campers competed with over 100 other authors of poems or short stories accompanied by illustrations. These 5 champions were each awarded a Samsung Galaxy Notepad by Fort Worth SPARC.
VISION
All Children will have equitable access to excellent quality after-school programs that promote intellectual, creative and healthy development leading to engaged and productive citizens.
MISSION
To strengthen after-school programs through Advocacy, Resources and Collaboration in the highest acuity of need students within Tarrant County.
ORGANIZATIONAL
PRINCIPLES
-
We have a children-centered focus
-
We strategically deliver resources to our highest acuity of need students
-
We are a small organization designed to pivot rapidly to triage and assess serious challenges in our high needs youth.
-
We are committed to data-driven decision-making
-
We are committed to continuous quality improvement
-
We are committed to a diverse set of stakeholders
-
We continuously engage our stakeholders
-
We seek ongoing support from stakeholders and providers
VALUES
-
To advance the safest and highest-quality service in after-school programs
-
To advocate for those we serve with honesty and mutual respect
-
To ensure quality programming through continuous learning and shared knowledge
-
To honor diversity and inclusiveness
-
To uphold the highest level of stewardship with our funds and resources
-
To be open, ethical and transparent in how we serve and operate
-
To be supportive and cooperative in all collaborations and partnerships
STAFF & BOARD
The innovative and dedicated professionals at SPARC come from a variety of backgrounds, but all share a passion for serving the children, youth and families of Fort Worth.
Tobi Jackson
Executive Director
Tobi Jackson is a veteran of diverse academic and corporate environments, this dynamic and energetic outcomes-driven leader brings a unique blend of technical and interpersonal abilities to the team. As a respected community leader, she is solutions oriented, with absolute strengths in leadership, team development, crisis management/stabilization and analysis.
During her professional career, she has served the spectrum in education, from K-12 to adult, as a faculty member, administrator and volunteer in public, private and corporate arenas. A strong advocate for youth with over three decades of community service, Jackson holds a B.A. in Education from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Master of Science in Physiology from the University of North Texas.
The Fort Worth SPARC nine member Board of Directors was established to represent the organization’s best interests within the community, to ensure Fort Worth SPARC is on track to meet goals and to develop policies in support of optimizing opportunity for A L L children.
Fort Worth SPARC and MYPhi, led by Dr. Yolande Pengetnze partner on specific pediatric health challenges.
Kathleen Powderly, MD President
Pediatrician - Private Practice
Pablo Calderon Vice President
Extensive experience working with non-profit, governmental agencies and citizen groups.
Molly Hyry, Treasurer
Educator and Community Leader
Vicki Ray, Secretary
Biotech and Pharmaceutical Professional, Community Volunteer
Nationally accaimed collegiate baton twirling coach
John Gales, Jr.
Business Owner, Entrepreneur, Event Coordinator, Motivational Speaker, Recording Artist
Mervil Johnson
Workforce Solutions, Workforce Collaboration Manager
Fatherhood and Community Collaborator
Tiesa Leggett
North Texas Commission - VP Governmental Affairs
Mary Emily Pardue
Occupational Therapist, Community Volunteer
Susie Reyes
Independent Consultant
Reyes Consulting