iSpeak

iACT for Refugees: Sadaf Mudares

My name is Sadaf Mudares, and I am deeply honored to stand before you today. My journey to this moment has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Four years ago, my family and I moved to the United States from Afghanistan, a country where women are often deprived of their basic […]

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Hands on Housing: Delores Nash

Mrs. Delores Nash is one of our incredible homeowners in the Hands on Housing program! She has the voice of an angel and sings with her church choir every Sunday. She has recently had to move from using a walker to using a motorized wheelchair full-time. Hands on Housing is […]

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Volunteer Spotlight: Roshan Vije

How long have you been in Austin?I’ve been in Austin since I was nine months old. How long have you volunteered with iACT?I have volunteered with iACT since I was in 8th grade in 2023. What made you want to volunteer with iACT?Our school does a service project every winter for all […]

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Board Spotlight: Michael Whellan

Michael Whellan brings decades of legal expertise and community leadership to iACT’s Board of Directors. A partner at Armbrust & Brown, Michael specializes in real estate, land use, and litigation, helping clients navigate complex legal and governmental processes throughout Central Texas.   Beyond his professional accomplishments, Michael has a long […]

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Staff Spotlight: Andres Garcia

Where are you from? I am from San Antonio, Texas. How long have you been in Austin? I’ve been living in Austin since 2017, so almost 10 years! What do you do at iACT? I am the Communications Coordinator at iACT. What’s the most challenging thing about the work you […]

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Doing Good Together: Rev. Jennifer Cumberbatch

My Kingdom is Not of This World By Rev. Jennifer Cumberbatch A few weekends ago, “No Kings” marches took place all over the country. Presidents are not kings. was the message. Americans are often fascinated by royalty, captivated by the pomp and splendor. Yet, Americans also fancy voting for their leaders.   I have […]

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Doing Good Together: Rev. Don Brewington

I Am Enough, You Are Enough By Rev. Don Brewington Life is to be lived. That’s a true statement—and at the same time, when one makes this statement, it is important to realize that it encompasses all that comes with living. Life holds joys, sorrows, and surprises (both good and not so […]

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Board Spotlight: Sara Hickman

Sara Hickman is a longtime Austin-based musician, educator, and advocate whose career has been rooted in creativity and community impact. Named the Official Texas State Musician in 2010, she has been recording, performing, and touring since 1988, with more than 20 albums and a Grammy nomination to her name. Beyond […]

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Volunteer Spotlight: Omar Heras

Q: How long have you been in Austin?Since 2001. Q: How long have you volunteered with iACT?4 years. Q: What inspired you to volunteer with iACT?AAFAME—I was asked to lead the group to help iACT. Q: What do you enjoy most about your experience with iACT?The people we help. Seeing […]

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Hands on Housing: Mary Riojas

Mrs. Mary Riojas is standing in front of the wall of art her grandchildren have created for her. She lives in her North Austin home covered in memories of her family. Her father, John Trevino, was the first Mexican-American to serve on the city council of Austin. Ms. Mary cared […]

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