Meet Eldon Lewis
“But that’s the nature of community, right? We are in one place together to do good work with other individuals who care as deeply about the community as you do.” – Eldon Lewis
Anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting Eldon Lewis will agree that the phrase “has never met a stranger” embodies his everyday attitude and outlook on community. While he experienced many changes upon moving to Houston from the northeast, his willingness to connect with others and serve his community was as aspect that remained the same.
For several years Eldon, Eldon lived in New Jersey before moving to the city of Houston. Now, Eldon and his family call Houston home. Although not originally on his list of “places to live”, he will now tell you he appreciates the climate, food and diversity of people represented in the city. When asked what makes him feel most connected to Houston, he simply replied “the people”. Being connected to numerous organizations, including Leadership Houston, has broadened his network both professionally and personally. Eldon also serves as Board Member of several organizations including the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Greater Houston Chapter and the 100 Black Men of Metropolitan Houston.
“The people in the community and the ability to serve is something that I’m really excited about in Houston… and recognizing that we all have a place here.”
Eldon pursued a career in fundraising for nonprofits after completing graduate school at the Rutgers School of Public Affairs. He currently works for KIPP Texas Public Schools. When asked about a proud career moment he gave the example that as of recent his organization has been able to support families in the Houston community that have faced economic challenges during the pandemic. “Covid-19 has disproportionately impacted predominantly communities of color, and communities that were already on the brink of financial ruin. We were able to raise money through our network of support to provide gift cards as immediate relief to families that were facing eviction or didn’t have enough to eat so that they were able to buy food… which is something we often take for granted.”
There’s no doubting Eldon’s passion to make a positive impact on the Houston community. When asked where his personal positivity stems from, Eldon answered “I look at each day as an opportunity to view the glass half full… I believe you have the opportunity to choose joy.” His words still resonate with me today as I think back on our conversation. Choose joy.
For anyone in the Houston area fortunate enough to meet Eldon, I believe you will find yourself both inspired and challenged to by his commitment to hard work and willingness to invest in meaningful relationships. I have been in enough [virtual] rooms with Eldon to know that conversations with him, if nothing else, will leave you with a smile.
