Decades of Determination
BACKGROUND In Cherokee County, Oklahoma, several water systems rely on the City of Tahlequah as their sole source of water. This dependence has limited growth for some of these systems. A few systems have their own small…
Infrastructure in Action
In South Texas, the Military Highway Water Supply Corporation (MHWSC) delivers drinking water to more than 15,000 residents across over 50 colonias in southeastern Hidalgo and Cameron counties. Based in the small community…
Water Security
Located at the intersection of State Highway 28 and Historic Route 66, Chelsea, Oklahoma, sits just 47 miles northeast of Tulsa. Though small in size, the town’s vision is anything but. Chelsea is home to a growing…
Relief Realized
When Amanda Edwards saw a Facebook post shared by Linda Weatherford — a trusted friend, representative of the Dumas Housing Taskforce, and key partner and advocate of Communities Unlimited (CU) — she didn’t expect it would…
Investing Where It Counts
More than half of U.S. counties lost bank branches between 2012 and 2017. In the poorest rural counties, more than half of all branches closed. In just five years, many communities became banking deserts — places where…
Power of Partnerships
The excitement is palpable as two years of hard work by the Housing Team at Communities Unlimited (CU) comes full circle. It all began in 2022, when CU partnered with come dream. come build. (cdcb), a non-profit housing…
Bridging Gaps
In Alabama’s Black Belt, the Dallas County Water & Sewer Authority (DCWSA) serves more than 1,200 water and 1,100 wastewater connections across the Selmont community, just east of the Alabama River near Selma.…
Clean Comeback
At the border of St. Landry and St. Martin Parishes in rural south-central Louisiana, United Water System, Inc. has quietly served as the backbone of water access for Arnaudville and nearby towns since 1971. What began as a…
Lithium Launchpad
A modest building off Highway 82 in a rural South Arkansas community may not look like the front door to the future — but that’s exactly what it has become. Smackover Lithium — a joint venture between Standard Lithium and…
A Vision for Rayville
In Rayville, Louisiana — a small town tucked along Interstate 20 in the northeastern corner of the state — Noel Lawson is pouring his energy, savings, and soul into something bigger than himself. Noel is the founder of…
Smokin’ Success
For the past seven years, Secondhand Smoke NWA has been serving up some of the best barbecue in Northwest Arkansas, blending old-school smoked meats with innovative plant-based options that have become fan favorites. Whether…
Overcoming Arsenic
White Deer Village Condominium Association, a nonprofit in Houghton Lake, Michigan, located in Roscommon County, has managed its community’s infrastructure for over 36 years. One of its most persistent challenges has been…
Keeping a Community Flowing
Hensley, Arkansas, is an unincorporated community in the central part of the Natural State, approximately 18 miles south of Little Rock. Maple Creek Farms Sewer and Improvement District, a platted subdivision in southeastern…
A Childhood Dream, A Lifetime of Care
Edward Hatch knew what he wanted to do with his life by the age of eight. His inspiration came from his grandfather’s best friend, Clarence Bowmen Sr., the town’s funeral director, who frequently visited the Hatch household…
A Home of Her Own
It starts with a porch light flickering on, a garden planted, a family settling in — and slowly, an entire neighborhood begins to thrive. In Pine Bluff, Arkansas, the vision of homeownership is no longer just an aspiration.…
Stepping Out on Faith
For years, Alvin Davis spent his days managing a retail team, helping build profits for a major chain. But deep down, he knew he was meant to build something for himself. “I’ve worked in retail for over 35…
Milestone Brewed
In 2010, Jeff Phillips, a cross-country truck driver, decided to follow his dream and open Tamp & Grind, a coffee shop in the heart of downtown Alexandria, Louisiana. The timing was serendipitous, as the downtown area…
More Than Housing
In England, Arkansas — a small rural town with a population of just 2,800 — housing is more than just a place to live. It’s a foundation for stability, dignity, and community. Yet, for many low- and moderate-income families,…
Waldron Rises
Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains near the Oklahoma state line, Waldron, Arkansas, is a small town in Scott County with a population of over 3,300 residents. As the county seat, it lies along U.S. Highway 71, a major…
Bungee Boom
In Fayetteville, nestled within Fiesta Square, is a gym unlike any other in Northwest Arkansas. Elevate Bungee Fitness, founded by Kayleigh Cooper, offers a unique low-impact, high-intensity workout experience that caters to…
Building Stronger Communities
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension has a long history of serving every county in Texas, with agents and specialists positioned to provide hands-on education and programs based on scientific research. Through a grassroots…
Fighting for Stability
Melville, a small fishing town of 746 residents in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, has faced decades of administrative and infrastructure challenges. Situated along the Atchafalaya River, the town struggled with incomplete…
Surviving Against Odds
Arkansas has the highest prevalence of food insecurity in the nation, with nearly 19% of its population affected, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) report released in September 2024. The Arkansas Foodbank,…
Communities Unlimited Launches New GIS Loan Program to Support Mapping Projects
bnvRural communities often struggle to access critical Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping services, relying on grants or other funding sources that can take time to secure. To bridge this gap, Communities Unlimited…
Expanding Global Reach
For H.E. Lady Jiljuana J. Coleman, entrepreneurship has always been more than a professional aspiration—it has been a lifelong vision. “I’ve dreamed of owning my own consulting firm since I was a little girl,” she shared.…
Popcorn Power
When Communities Unlimited (CU) first connected with Tennessee Entrepreneur Lamus Rush III, he had recently opened a Memphis storefront for his gourmet popcorn business, Crave4 Gourmet Popcorn. CU’s Area Director Marnell…
SkillUp Workforce
After nearly three decades as a manager at a staffing agency, Erika Winfrey decided in October 2024 to take a bold step toward entrepreneurship by launching her own business, SkillUp Workforce, in Memphis, Tennessee.…
Rolling Forward
For Arkansas Entrepreneur Araceli Ochoa, launching NWA Rolling Video Games in December 2022 was a leap of faith—one driven by the desire for a flexible career and more time with her daughter, Victoria. Her mobile gaming…
Communities Unlimited Launches Housing Survey for Rural Communities in East Texas
Communities Unlimited (CU) is excited to announce the launch of a comprehensive housing survey designed to assist rural communities across East Texas in identifying housing needs and forming strategies. This initiative aims…
Communities Unlimited Launches “Our Delta” Home Improvement Loan Program to Support Eastern, Southern Arkansas Residents
In partnership with the King Foundation and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, Communities Unlimited (CU) has launched the “Our Delta” Home Improvement Loan Program to address a critical lending gap for residents across…
Communities Unlimited Introduces Russ Garner as Director of Community Sustainability
Communities Unlimited (CU) has announced the promotion of Russ Garner as the new Director of Community Sustainability. With extensive experience in community development, Russ is well-positioned to lead efforts that…
Communities Unlimited Expands Housing Services to East Texas
Through a cooperative agreement with USDA Rural Development and in partnership with the T.L.L. Temple Foundation, the Housing Team at Communities Unlimited (CU) has announced its expansion into East Texas. This initiative…
Passion Project Turned Venture
In 2022, Brittany Johnson’s trip to Mexico City marked the beginning of a journey she didn’t initially anticipate. While visiting a local bookstore during her travels, Brittany was struck by the range of Spanish-language…
Connected Future
Bastrop County, Texas, a vibrant yet largely rural region located in Central Texas just southeast of Austin, has long faced significant challenges with internet access. Known for its pine forests, rolling hills, and the…
Securing the Future
In the neighborhood of Conroe Bay, located in Willis, Texas, in Montgomery County just outside of Houston, the hum of daily life depends on something many take for granted: clean, reliable water. The Conroe Water-Sewer…
A Dream Realized and Growing
When Communities Unlimited (CU) first introduced Mildred Smith from West Columbus, Mississippi, she had just taken a major step toward fulfilling her retirement dream. She had built a cozy, inviting cottage behind her home,…
Blending Resources for Lasting Impact
Telling the story of how Communities Unlimited (CU) collaborates with a community over two decades is no small task, and such is the case in White Hall, Alabama. CU first engaged with the town in 2004, helping address the…
Mapping a Path to Recovery
When an EF-4 tornado tore through Rolling Fork, Mississippi, on March 24, 2023, it left behind catastrophic destruction. The town’s city hall, police station, county courthouse, post office, and iconic water tower were among…
Water Resurgence
In 2015, the Community Infrastructure Team at Communities Unlimited (CU) began its work with the Fords Valley & Hwy 278 Water Cooperative, a system serving the rural communities between Gadsden and Piedmont, Alabama, in…
Empanadas One 8: From Family Tradition to Business Triumph
Claudia Tomison and her daughter, Aranzazu Tapia, immigrated from Chile to the United States with a dream of building a new life in Lufkin, Texas. While they have embraced their American life, they’ve always held a special…
From Homeless to Hopeful
Jasmine Boyce couldn’t have imagined where she would be today. For nearly two years, she had no permanent home and lived on the streets of Texarkana, Texas. But life has a way of opening doors when least expected. Jasmine…
From Denial to Dream
Melnika Hale has always been passionate about helping children succeed. This dedication led her to earn an associate degree in early childhood education and a Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and Audiology from the…
Loan Grown
Sarah L. Hebert, Certified Public Accountant (CPA), is pursuing her entrepreneurial dream of building a successful accounting practice in Youngsville, Louisiana. Specializing in tax preparation, financial planning, and…
Protecting What’s Beneath
Throughout the United States, an estimated 23 million people rely on private wells for their daily water needs. This number may not even include the amount of people that utilize private springs. In contrast, around 291…
Breaking Ground
JS&J Storage is charting a course toward innovation in renewable energy storage in Houston, Texas. Specializing in energy-efficient storage and handling cutting-edge Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), JS&J…
Rapid Results
Regaining compliance with state regulations can take small utilities years, depending on the source of the issue. West Point Utility District accomplished it in just six months. Call it untangling out of chaos. “We’re proud…
Mountain City Rises
In the Blue Ridge Mountains of northeastern Tennessee, Mountain City is a small town with a rich history and a resilient spirit. Within the heart of Appalachia as the county seat of Johnson County, this community of just…
Bridging The Digital Divide In East Texas
In the small unincorporated community of Buna, Texas, Evergreen Technology Solutions is addressing one of the most pressing challenges facing the rural space today: access to reliable broadband. Founded by Chief Executive…
Strategic Blending For Growth
For nearly a decade, Communities Unlimited (CU) has partnered with Dumas, Arkansas, on community-led initiatives, helping the city turn its vision for growth into reality. This Delta community has become a model for how…
Dreams Funded
Jason and Kasey Young have launched Chef J’s Flavor Station, a new food truck serving the Tulsa, Oklahoma, community under their LLC, Forever Young Foodies. Specializing in chef-inspired Southern comfort dishes made from…
Bringing Asia to Arkansas
In Jacksonville, Arkansas, Kusina Cuisine, an Asian-Infusion restaurant, brings a unique blend of diverse flavors to the community. This new venture is the passion project of husband-and-wife duo, Jason and Arlyn Fox. Jason,…
Enhancing Disaster Preparedness
Groveton, Texas, the county seat of Trinity County, was founded in 1881 when the Trinity County Lumber Company established a sawmill in the area. The town takes its name from the groves of pine trees that dominate the…
Water Opportunity
For English Acres, water is the key to opportunity. In Jim Wells County, Texas, about six miles southwest of Alice, lies Coyote Acres, a small Colonia with fewer than 600 residents. Within this community is English Acres, a…
Road To Super Brand
A comic book-inspired culinary hotspot is redefining the breakfast, brunch, and lunch experience in Huntsville, Alabama. Superhero Chefs, a restaurant adorned with Marvel and DC artwork, serves up “wow-worthy”…
Driving Success
Joy Harvey has turned her passion for clean cars into Harvey’s Detail Connection in Tulsa, Oklahoma. With a full spectrum of vehicle detailing services, Joy serves both public and business clients, aiming to become Tulsa’s…
Turning The Page On Disaster
In late April 2024, severe storms brought flooding inside the Silsbee Public Library in Hardin County, Southeast Texas, causing significant damage to its children’s section. “We had to cut out sheetrock, rip up the…
Resilience, Collaboration
Drew, Mississippi, a small delta town of 1,927 in Sunflower County, has long faced challenges in maintaining and improving its municipal infrastructure. Yet, with collaboration, persistence, and a shared vision for progress,…
Pampered Pets
Groom Studio has brought a new level of high-end dog grooming services to Vidor, Texas. Owned by business partners Buck Hebb and Shaina Lafleur, the studio provides a full range of grooming and bathing services for dog…
Safeguarding Water, Protecting Communities
Across the United States, under the new Lead and Copper Rule, all water systems were tasked with identifying both system-owned and customer-owned service line materials by Oct. 16, 2024. This was a monumental task for all…
Community Cornerstone
In Clarksdale, Mississippi, Brandon Sims is a jack of all trades. Brandon is not only a licensed auto body repairman but also a locksmith, welder, and skilled in select upholstery fixes. His versatile skill set led him to…
Earle’s Young Visionary
Earle, Arkansas, is located in Crittenden County, in the eastern part of the state. It sits along U.S. Highway 64, approximately 28 miles west of Memphis, Tennessee. This small town of 1,768 people is part of the Arkansas…
Searcy County Part 3
Rural living is becoming increasingly attractive across the nation. The statistics show that 66% of Americans would consider moving to a rural area if telecommuting were an option. Searcy County, Arkansas, stands out as a…
Searcy County Part 2
Rural living is becoming increasingly attractive across the nation. The statistics show that 66% of Americans would consider moving to a rural area if telecommuting were an option. Searcy County, Arkansas, stands out as a…
Searcy County Part 1
Rural living is becoming increasingly attractive across the nation. The statistics show that 66% of Americans would consider moving to a rural area if telecommuting were an option. Searcy County, Arkansas, stands out as a…
Jewelry Journey
As a child, Chandra Ellerson often played in her mother’s jewelry box, trying on and admiring the glittering stones and metals. She encountered historical pieces of jewelry, hand-made with crude tools by people of the past…
Farm Loan Boosts Growth
Communities Unlimited (CU) has launched a new Farm Lending Program designed to support small-scale farmers across its seven-state footprint, filling a critical gap for those who face barriers to accessing traditional…
Money Personalities
Tonya Collins’ passion for personal finance education was sparked by her self-discovery. While reading The Five Conversations to Have with Children About Money, she took the book’s money personality assessment and…
Water Revival
Wabbaseka, Arkansas, a small town in the southeastern part of the state, holds deep historical roots within Jefferson County. With a population of about 200 residents, Wabbaseka is the kind of place where everyone knows one…
Business Breakthrough
In February 2019, as a single mother facing financial challenges, Tandra Jordan was determined to find a solution. Initially, she sought a quick fix by working with Jan-Pro, a commercial cleaning service in Little Rock,…
Tech Turnaround
Jeff Collins, the owner of Collins Enterprises in rural Arkansas, has always had a passion for technology and a desire to help others. After earning a degree in electrical engineering from Cornell University, Jeff embarked…
Sweet Resilience
D’Cora’s Custom Cakes in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, is a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of D’Cora Dotson who turned her passion into a successful business. After earning her Associate and Bachelor’s…
Bridging Gaps
Ali Milligan’s connection to Mission Texarkana is both personal and transformative impacting not only her but also the individuals she serves. As a Broadband Technical Assistance Provider (BTAP) with Communities Unlimited…
Lasting Partnership
Sforenia “Lady” Robinson, a well-known cook in McGehee, Arkansas, has always had a passion for Southern soul food. In October 2020, amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lady turned that passion into a business by…
Communities Unlimited Launches Small Farm Lending Program to Support Rural Farmers
Small farmers play a vital role in rural communities and local food systems, yet many face significant challenges in accessing the financing needed to grow their operations. To address this gap, Communities Unlimited (CU)…
Rising Resolve
In October 2023, Marcella Dean became the mayor of Annona, a small town in northeast Texas with just 184 residents. She didn’t seek out the role because of a passion for politics, but to fix a major problem: the town’s…
Healing Roots
Nellie Griffin, owner of ExSEAlent Moss, has found a way to blend natural remedies with her community’s needs in Columbus, Mississippi. Her business, which started during the peak of the COVID pandemic, emerged from a…
Sweet Ambitions
Dena’s Sweetly Unique Cakes, owned by Dena Reed and based in Beaumont, Texas, specializes in cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, and other baked goods. Reed, a self-taught baker, has created cakes in Beaumont since 1995. Over…
Building Futures
We Center / We Build, a key partner of Communities Unlimited (CU), provides vocational training for at-risk youth in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, teaching hands-on construction skills to create volumetric modular housing. This…
Fortified Roofs
Progress is being made in Dumas, Arkansas, to address housing challenges, thanks to the collaboration between Communities Unlimited (CU) and Simmons Bank. This partnership has led to the implementation of the Fortified Roof…
Belzoni Revives
Belzoni, Mississippi, a small town of 1,776 people in the heart of the Delta in Humphreys County, has a rich history and resilient spirit. It is approximately 75 miles northwest of Jackson, the state capital, and is located…
Featherland Legacy
In the open plains of Amarillo, Texas, Justin Trammell has built more than just a farm — he’s created a legacy. Tir Bluen, which he founded in 2013, is a symbol of his deep connection to family, heritage, and a vision for…
Water, History, and Hope
Elaine, Arkansas, located in southeastern Phillips County near the Mississippi River, is a small town with a rich history and promising potential. Nestled in the Arkansas Delta, it’s known for its agricultural landscape and…
Books & Beyond
In 2021, Kendall Craig, a Marfa, Texas, resident, opened Stop & Read Books with the help of a loan from Communities Unlimited (CU). Her book subscription service and cozy storefront quickly became a favorite for locals…
Sewer Revival
Victoria, Texas, located halfway between Houston and Corpus Christi, is home to the Quail Creek Municipal Utility District (MUD), serving a growing residential community in the northern part of the city. Established in 1986,…
Confidence Rebuilt
Sheana Witt and Justin Endres are bringing their passion for fitness to Senatobia, Mississippi, through their personal training gym, Tasty Gainz, operating under the trademark “Mind Over Body.” This gym is more…
Farm to School Movement
In rural Tennessee, a quiet revolution is transforming school cafeterias. The Farm to School movement is gaining momentum, led by local champions — child nutrition directors and farmers — who are reshaping how students…
Farm to School Movement
Blackberry Pond Farm in Martin, Tennessee, a small town in the northwest corner of the state, exemplifies how local agriculture can foster stronger connections between communities and the food they consume. Sue and James…
Mulberry, AR
Nestled in the foothills of the Boston Mountains along the Arkansas River, Mulberry, Arkansas, sits in Crawford County in the western part of the state. This small town of 1,590 people, located near Fort Smith and the…
Mapping Resilience
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) requires utility systems to maintain detailed maps documenting every aspect of their infrastructure, from water meters and valves to hydrants and pipe types.…
Dream Reignited
After her brother’s passing in Atlanta in 2023, Kalesha Boose realized her heart belonged back with her family in Gulfport, Mississippi. The visit made her see her hometown in a new light — it needed something fresh,…
Water Guardian
Darren Fields exemplifies the dedication and resilience that define the role of a water operator. As the Water Superintendent for the City of Mulberry in Arkansas, Darren’s journey into this field was anything but…
Pet Perfection
Stephanie DuBose’s journey from working as a kennel technician to becoming the owner of Wags to Riches Grooming in Vidor, Texas, showcases her love for animals and her determination to succeed. With two years of grooming…
Community-Driven Change
Luke Johnson, a local family physician and city council member in Alto, Texas, is passionately involved in several initiatives aimed at revitalizing the town. Alto, a small town in Cherokee County in the Piney Woods region…
Septic Relief
For four long years, Misty Hall lived in a state of constant anxiety. Her home in Jefferson County, Arkansas, was plagued by a failing septic system that had become a relentless source of stress. The system was not only…
Broadband Barrier
For rural communities, the lack of high-speed internet isn’t just a tech gap — it’s a roadblock to vital services, jobs, and healthcare. This digital divide keeps opportunities out of reach. Dr. Mary Williams, owner of…
Culinary Pivot
Chef Tonnette Khabir, the owner of Bobsaith LLC since 2006, has been a prominent figure in Dallas’ catering and food service management scene since 1993, earning a reputation for excellence. However, by early 2009, her…
Storytelling Success
DeSisso Publishing, founded by sisters Tristan Towns and Lacey Howard, is a Memphis, Tennessee-based business born from a passion for storytelling and a desire to empower children. “We started off just wanting to write a…
Clean Sweep
Walter Adams, the owner of Regal Cleaning in Amarillo, Texas, has always possessed an entrepreneurial spirit. His journey into the business world took a decisive turn in August 2021 when he launched Regal Cleaning, a…
Trash Titans
Sunlight Services, a waste management business in Marvell, Arkansas, is owned by Andrea White and her husband. Over the past four years, they’ve steadily grown their company, supplying large metal trash bins to consumers,…
Landscaping Hope
Talbert Lawn Services in Little Rock, Arkansas, has become a key community business, transforming landscapes and lives. Founded in 2015 by Allicia Adams-Talbert, it was born out of necessity. Allicia’s husband…
Passion Realized
Amari Briggs, founder of Amari B Studios in Little Rock, Arkansas, discovered her passion for beauty nearly 30 years ago. It started in high school when she helped a friend with vitiligo regain confidence with a simple…
Paving the Way to Success
K & H Transport, owned by Mario Malone, is based in Madison, Arkansas. This specialized dump transport service is making strides in the sector, transporting gravel, sand, topsoil, asphalt, and other minerals for various…
Transforming from Within
Melville, Louisiana, is a small town of 746 residents located in St. Landry Parish in the southern part of the state, along the banks of the Atchafalaya River. Known for its fishing, Melville has a rich history and a strong…
Revitalizing Mosses
In the middle of Lowndes County, Alabama, lies the rural town of Mosses. Named in honor of the Moss family, the town represented a new beginning for African American families who were sold land by the Mosses during the Civil…
Crafting Solutions
Erica Pierce, the owner of Oya Kreations in Nacogdoches, Texas, started her natural skincare journey out of necessity. When her daughter’s severe eczema couldn’t be managed with existing products, Erica took matters into her…
Rapid Responses and Major Wins
In the summer of 2023, the Community Infrastructure Team at Communities Unlimited (CU) began assisting the Longview Water Association (LWA) near Starkville, Mississippi. In the northeastern part of the state, the LWA serves…
Business Protection
Rebecca Felts, owner of Felts Insurance Agency in Hemphill, Texas, is a shining example of how determination and community focus can lead to a successful career. With nearly a decade of insurance experience, Rebecca started…
Storm Challenges
Kansas is a small town in northeastern Oklahoma, within Delaware County. The South Delaware County Regional Water Authority (SDCRWA) provides clean and reliable water to 769 connections in the community. Over 21 years, the…
A New Approach
Synolo Wellness offers a fresh take on healthcare, driven by Nurse Practitioner Kristi Jones in the small community of Hensley, Arkansas. After years of working within the traditional healthcare system and facing her own…
Pine Bluff Housing
Matt Mosler launched Home Again Pine Bluff several years ago with a mission to revitalize the city block by block and empower low-income residents with the opportunity to own homes. As the pastor of New Life Church in Pine…
Pine Bluff Housing
In January 2022, Go Forward Pine Bluff teamed up with the City of Pine Bluff, Simmons Bank, and other partners to launch ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, yet Employed) Families, backed by the Winthrop Rockefeller…
Lewisville, AR
The Community Sustainability Team at Communities Unlimited is actively supporting the residents of Lewisville, Arkansas, in their pursuit of a vibrant community. Despite common negative perceptions about rural areas, we…
Second Time’s the Charm
Ruthie Landelius vividly recalls the day she closed on her initial loan with Communities Unlimited (CU) for her business Black Fig Food back in 2022. As she signed the final documents, a sense of relief washed over her, but…
Franchise Fulfilled
Eric Gray of Pearl, Mississippi, had spent the last 12 years working for the Department of Transportation (DOT). He also had a 23-year career in insurance investigation. While the jobs provided financially for him and his…
Infrastructure Grants Tackle Colonia Flooding
Flooding in Colonias directly threatens the structural integrity of homes and severely impacts the health and safety of residents. The stagnant water left behind after floods becomes a perfect environment for harmful…
Connecting Jonestown
Mayor Vivian Burnett faces a critical challenge that resonates deeply within her community. As she stands at the forefront of bringing broadband access to her rural town, she reflects on the many obstacles that have hindered…
Bridging the Digital Divide
Communities Unlimited (CU) is on a mission to bridge the digital divide in rural Mississippi by bringing broadband access to underserved areas where reliable internet has been a long-standing challenge. The COVID-19 pandemic…
Inspired by CU Workshop
The power of connection is magical, as shown by the inspiring collaboration between Laeil Pepin and Mark Browning. In December 2023, the “Rake It In” fund development workshop was held in Rusk, Texas, led by the…
Desert Town Woes
Sierra Blanca is an unincorporated Colonias community in Hudspeth County, Texas, located about 100 miles southeast of El Paso near the intersection of Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 90. This desert town, home to around 553…
Dedication Flows Deep
When posed a question about why he does what he does for a living, John Butler needed time to think to collect his thoughts. “Why am I a water operator?” Butler asked himself. While it may seem like a relatively…
Financial Clarity
Klassey Accessories is a woman-owned small business that sells high-end jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. Mary Esclovon founded it in November 2019 in Beaumont, Texas. Mary started Klassey…
From Russia to the United States
Healthy Flavors is not just about sustainable farming; it is a tale of love, resilience, and innovation that spans continents. Dan and Nadia Spatz’s journey from Russia to the United States led to an agricultural business…
Ensuring Safe Water
In the northeastern part of Oklahoma, near the western edge of the Cherokee Nation, is the small town of Hulbert. This rural community, part of the larger region known as Green Country, is approximately 15 miles southwest of…
Joaquin Rises
Located in Shelby County, East Texas, the City of Joaquin has a storied history, dating back to its incorporation on June 15, 1914. This small municipality has long been a pillar of the community. However, recent events have…
Setting Goals and Planning Ahead
In Memphis, Tennessee, 3 Level Transport exemplifies family dedication and entrepreneurial spirit. The Entrepreneurship Team at Communities Unlimited (CU), led by Senior Management Consultant Rhett Douglas, has been crucial…
Genius Transformation
In November 2015, Tiarica Randle started Genius Tea in Memphis, Tennessee, aiming to harness the healing power of nature. Producing natural teas, lemonades, supplements, and salads, Randle’s business began as a personal…
Scaling Business
Kandice Winfield’s journey to becoming a notary wasn’t straightforward. Originally from Colorado, she learned about the idea from a young woman skilled at finding new income opportunities. “She asked me,…
Painting Success
In Conway, Arkansas, KingCare Painting & Construction has quickly become well-known for its interior and exterior coatings, facilities maintenance, wallpaper services, and drywall work. KingCare Painting &…
Sowing Seeds of Health
In Pine Bluff, Arkansas, a fresh approach to healthcare is taking root. Communities Unlimited (CU) is pioneering the 12-week Food Farmacy project, a groundbreaking initiative that combats food insecurity by delivering fresh,…
Popcorn Plans To Takeoff
In Little Rock, Arkansas, Mr. Keith’s Kettlecorn is a beloved local treasure, attracting popcorn lovers from all over the city. This business began in 2013, founded by Keith Fulks after 32 years with Southwest…
Dream Realized
In Almyra, Arkansas, Murphy’s Bakery and Burgers, a new food truck owned by Misha Murphy, is filling a long-standing community need. This venture also fulfills Murphy’s long-time dream and starts a new chapter…
Breaking Barriers
LaTeasha Davis knows firsthand the struggles of overcoming a speech delay. Growing up in West Memphis, Arkansas, she experienced the frustration of limited access to therapy services. Now, through her business, Therapeutic…
Bridging Wellness
Village Public Health and Wellness Center, owned by Quinyatta Mumford, is dedicated to addressing the health and wellness needs of individuals aged 13-24 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Mumford, a seasoned public health…
Little City, Big Plans
Atoka is a small community in southeastern Oklahoma with about 3,000 residents. It provides water and wastewater services to 1,280 connections and also supplies water and manages sewer services for the nearby town of……
Energizing The Future
In 2016, Mississippi Entrepreneur Will Shirley made a significant move by purchasing Sundial Solar, a Jackson-based company dedicated to harnessing solar energy for a brighter future. His journey began in technology and…
Growth Plan Success
Angela McGhee’s journey into the world of cosmetic skincare started long before she even set foot in college. Unlike many who go to college unsure of their path, McGhee always knew her passion. As a young child, she…
Pine Bluff Housing
Amidst the shadows, a beacon of hope emerges on W 13th & 14th Street in Ward 3 of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Construction is underway, foundations are being laid, and the promise of homeownership is palpable. This block marks…
Total Turnaround
Running a small business can be a relentless grind, especially when you’re pouring every ounce of energy into keeping it afloat. For Anne-Marie Jenkins and her husband Darryl, owners of iStaffing Services in…
Crucial Survey
Wagoner County RWD #2 faces a significant challenge: their outdated water plant needs over $6 million in upgrades. Without the funds, they sought help from various sources. The Cherokee Nation funded a study conducted by ISG…
Starting A Small Business
Have you ever thought about starting a business? Do you find yourself coming back to that thought repeatedly? Well, if so, then this may be the article for you. Owning a business can be very rewarding as it can contribute…
Blueprint For Success
In 2019, Zebrina Robertson started Tax Blueprint in Texarkana, Texas, to provide affordable tax preparation, insurance, and financial services to her community. Driven by fairness, Robertson left her previous job due to high…
Navigating New Waters
In Milam, Texas, Andi Sanders runs Toledo Bend Kayak Rental, located between Toledo Bend and Sam Rayburn Lakes. The company offers fully insured kayak rentals and is expanding to include kayak sales, accessories, and custom…
Innovative Partnership
Brittany Scott, Owner and Lab Director of Semen and Embryo Advanced Technologies (SMART Repro) has turned a groundbreaking vision into a reality since founding the company in 2021. As the first USDA-inspected and approved…
Saving Texas Teens
Jennifer Drone has faced the harsh realities of life on the streets. Her journey began when she was just 12 years old. “I’ve lived it. I’ve been a homeless teen,” she recalls. “My mom…
Reviving Utica
Utica, Mississippi, once a vibrant hub of culture and agriculture, is now on the verge of a revival thanks to the local nonprofit Sipp Culture. Despite setbacks like losing its high school in 1993, the shirt factory closing…
Making Connections
In Louisiana, rural communities often face challenges like aging infrastructure and limited resources. To help, the Community Infrastructure Team at Communities Unlimited (CU) partnered with USDA-Rural Development. This…
Transformación de agua
Since its formation in 1965, Union Water Supply Corporation (Union WSC) has been the lifeline for the residents of Garciasville, La Casita, Santa Cruz, El Chaparral, El Refugio, and La Puerta in southern Starr County, Texas,…
Building Resiliency
Linda Weatherford moved to Dumas, Arkansas, in 1986, expecting a brief stop in her teaching career before pursuing diplomatic services. Instead, Dumas became her longest-standing home. Coming from a military family, Linda…
Lewisville, AR
The Community Sustainability Team at Communities Unlimited is actively supporting the residents of Lewisville, Arkansas in their pursuit of a vibrant community. Despite common negative perceptions about rural areas, we…
One Scoop At A Time
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Northwest Arkansas Entrepreneur Cassandra Coleman and her husband Mario, residing in Dallas, Texas at the time, embarked on a 90-day sugar fast. Cassandra, who is lactose intolerant and…
Unsung Heroes: Katrina Brewer
The Unsung Heroes Series is designed to shine the spotlight on extraordinary individuals in communities across our 7 state service area. Communities Unlimited is committed to exposing the amazing work happening…
Water Warriors
The Community Infrastructure Team at Communities Unlimited (CU) in Tennessee, led by State Coordinator Annie Chiodo, plays a vital role in resolving water system issues. Technical Assistance Providers (TAPs) identify…
Lewisville, AR
The Community Sustainability Team at Communities Unlimited is actively supporting the residents of Lewisville, Arkansas in their pursuit of a vibrant community. Despite common negative perceptions about rural areas, we…
Pine Bluff Housing
Pine Bluff, Arkansas is situated where the Mississippi Delta and flat farmland intersect. The community has a rich cultural history and is known as the “Gateway to the Delta.” A decline in economic growth, and a history of…
Life Begins Now
Over the last few years, Deanna O’Malley recognized the critical need for increased empathy and support for those reentering society after incarceration. As a Community Facilitator on the Community Sustainability Team at…
A Clear Path Ahead
Winslow, Arkansas, like many rural communities, needed upgrades to its water system. A year and a half ago, as Winslow sought funding, Mayor Randy Jarnagan realized they needed a better understanding of their system.…
Revitalizing Dogwood
In 1961, the Dogwood Water Association (DWA) was established near Blytheville, Arkansas, in Mississippi County. For decades, it has been the lifeline for 527 metered water accounts. However, the aging infrastructure has…
Mississippi Business Rebounds
Kay’s Kute Fruit in Greenville, Mississippi, faced a major setback in the summer of 2023 when their fresh fruit and smoothie bar was broken into. Thieves stole the cash register, deposits, safe, and three table sets with…
Carrying the Legacy
Tennessee Entrepreneur Daniel Watson, the owner of Visions Enterprise and the Beneva Mayweather Food Brand in Memphis has been involved in the food business for most of his life. His late grandmother, Beneva Mayweather, who…
Severe Weather Devastates Texas Community
In late April, Trinity County, Texas, received 24 inches of rain in just three days, submerging the community of Trinity. This is a significant increase from the usual annual rainfall of 44-48 inches. Locals in Trinity…
Carpentry Business Expansion
Tennessee Entrepreneur Darron Robinson ran Sprick’s Cabinets & Carpentry Solutions from his home in Brighton, 30 miles north of Memphis. He started the business in 2021, with his wife Chalonda as co-owner and…
GIS Mapping Workflow
At Communities Unlimited (CU), the Geographic Information System (GIS) Team is led by Coordinator Don Becker, with Project Manager Trent Neathery and Specialists Alex Webb and Harrison Brown. This story explains how GIS…
Sustaining Sewage
The Girard Community Sewer System, established in 2007, is a privately owned utility in Richland Parish, Louisiana. Designed to support a rural population, it includes a pumping facility, treatment, storage, and collection…
Turning the Tide
Before becoming South Plains Water Supply Corporation (SPWSC) in July 2023, the system was an investor-owned utility in Lubbock, Texas, owned by Marion Smith. Smith had tried multiple times to sell the system without success…
Empowering Corporate Wellness
Tennessee Entrepreneur Deana Taylor is channeling years of expertise into her new business, Strong Minds, Strong Bodies (SMSB) Solutions, a fitness and wellness service designed for corporate compensation packages. With a…
From Corporate Finance to Coaching
Tennessee Entrepreneur Gwendolyn Tucker went from crunching numbers in corporate finance to guiding leaders toward success. Now, as President of Respect Integrity Excellence (RIX), she’s helping companies thrive…
Driving Entrepreneurial Success
Arkansas Entrepreneurs Cedric and Crystal Smith started JNM Trucking in August 2022, based in Rogers. Their company specializes in short and long-haul hotshot transportation, ensuring quick freight delivery to various…
Strategic Planning
Arkansas Entrepreneur Ashtone Dixon has been a hairstylist since 2011. She founded The Hot Spot AR | Salon & Spa in Conway in 2017 and relocated to Fayetteville in 2021. At Hot Spot Salon, Dixon services members of the…
Water System Expands
Corinth Water Supply Corporation (WSC) has been operating since 1969. Located near Grand Saline, Texas, 70 miles east of Dallas, the rural Texas water system has 395 connections and provides water to the communities of…
Revitalizing Rural Water
Down in southeast Oklahoma lies the quaint community of Big Cedar. Nestled amidst the picturesque Ouachita Mountains, this small community in southern LeFlore County harbors the remarkable tale of resilient Rural Water…
Supporting Amarillo, Texas
In Amarillo and its surrounding West Texas communities, Communities Unlimited (CU) stands as a beacon of support and engagement.With a presence spanning lending, community sustainability, community infrastructure,…
Limited Access No More
Kiowa is a small town in Pittsburg County, Oklahoma, with a population of 731. Located in the southeastern part of the state, the Kiowa Public Works Authority serves about 350 water customers and 294 sewer customers. The…
Helping Youth Thrive
The question Tennessee Entrepreneur Pamela Ware is most frequently asked: how do you do what you do? “I knew at age 14 that death and I would have a special relationship,” Ware said. “I’m not afraid of death. I never have…
Vision Come To Life
Mississippi Entrepreneur Mildred Smith dedicated her career to serving as both a social worker and an adjunct professor at East Mississippi Community College until her retirement in 2022. Smith, whose family has held the…
Next Level Mom And Business Person
As a mom since she was 18, Texas Entrepreneur Ericka Bennett loved making her home cozy for her family. As her kids got older, Bennett started doing do-it-yourself projects at home. She found she was good at interior design…
Filling A Gap For Big Rigs
Scott Anthony has immersed himself in the automotive mechanic industry since the age of 20, acquiring knowledge through hands-on experience and on-the-job training. Anthony achieved mastery in automotive repair, obtaining…
Private Well Peace Of Mind
Groundwater quality in Tennessee varies widely across the state. While the western region is known for its reliable water sources, the geological composition in the middle and eastern parts of Tennessee creates differences…
Rural Communities Score Big
It’s all about being in the right place at the right time. That was the case for Communities Unlimited (CU) and the Community Sustainability Team in March 2024. Office manager Calise Smith was seeking to donate nine…
Louisiana Entrepreneur Expands Business
** This story is a follow-up to our story from April 2023 “New Salon A Natural Extension For Owner” ** In 2023, Louisiana Entrepreneur Justine McCall embarked on a life-changing journey. Following the opening of…
Passion Leads To Progress
Wright City, Oklahoma, once a thriving timber industry hub, faced economic distress following the closure of its primary employer in 2009. The loss of jobs and income strained the town’s finances, hindering efforts to…
Mississippi Entrepreneur Reaps Millions
After almost 50 years devoted to the coatings industry, Mississippi entrepreneur Earl Washington proactively initiated succession planning in 2023 for his business, U.S. Coating Specialties & Supplies. Washington, the…
Arkansas Entrepreneur’s Journey To Success
At 17 years old, John Peyton Schmidt decided to drop out of Fayetteville (Ark.) High School. During that period, he grappled with drug involvement, faced instability within his family, and struggled with substance…
Rapid Success
Since acquiring Unlimited Designs from a church friend in 2019, Janet Molandes has been at the helm of the Nacogdoches, Texas-based custom printing outlet. Unlimited Designs stands out for its expertise in crafting…
My First Community Visit
To say my first road trip as a staff member at Communities Unlimited (CU) was eye-opening would be an understatement. I started at CU on March 11, 2024, so I am brand new to the company. Being on my first road trip and not…
Loan Boost
Texas repairman Wilbur Griffin II vividly remembers May 19, 2019, as a day that started like any other. Griffin II, then a technician at Mr. Appliance, woke up, prepared for work, and set off in his truck. However,…
Farm To School
In 2022, partners Communities Unlimited (CU), Eat Real, and Healthy Flavors received a Farm to School grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to strengthen farm-to-school programs throughout the…
Joy On Wheels
For Arkansas entrepreneur Araceli Ochoa, the journey from waitress to business owner wasn’t just about financial success. It was about crafting a lifestyle that allowed her to be present with her 8-year-old daughter,…
Unearthing History
In the heart of the East Texas Community of Pineland, Texas, sits Georgia-Pacific Corporation, one of the world’s leading makers of tissue, pulp, packaging, and building products. Like many manufacturers, Georgia-Pacific…
From The Garden To The Shelf
Originally started as a means for a married couple to reduce their salt intake, Wholly Fire Foods, LLC has evolved from a home remedy to a natural condiment suitable for all hot sauce enthusiasts. Mississippi Entrepreneur…
Tennessee Entrepreneur Pops Big
In 2016, Memphis-based Tennessee Entrepreneur Lamus Rush III was in medical care, working as a nurse. On his off days away from the hospital, he dabbled in the kitchen, cooking up gourmet popcorn. It’s safe to say his…
Future Proofing A Rural Water System
Communities Unlimited staff began an EPA National Priority 1 Drinking Water Technical Assistance grant-funded mapping project with the East Columbia Water District (ECWD) on Feb. 20, 2024. The objective was to construct a…
More Than Laundry
North Heights Linen Service, LLC is a 30,000-square-foot facility located in Amarillo, TX, that serves hospitals and medical facilities with mass laundry services. But, North Heights Linen Service originated much further…
Water System Continues Regionalization Efforts
Jefferson County, Arkansas, is located in an area known as the Arkansas Delta. Jefferson County consists of five cities, with Pine Bluff being the largest. The Wright-Pastoria Water Association is located in rural Jefferson…
WSBZ Farms Uses Grant To Benefit All
In 2022, Communities Unlimited (CU) received a grant from Cargill’s Black Farmer’s Initiative to purchase trailers for growers in three states to increase their farm’s capacity. WSBZ Farms in Arkansas has used that trailer…
Not All Heroes Wear Capes
Winona is a city in the state of Texas. The small town is three miles north of Owentown in northeastern Smith County. With a population of around 576 residents, the town dates back to 1870 when it was established on the old…
Resilience In Gordon Alabama
Gordon was first incorporated in 1872 and is located in Houston County, in southeastern Alabama, neighboring Georgia and Florida. The small community was first established as a trading post on the Chattahoochee River. It…
Winslow Receives First CU Pre-Development Loan In Arkansas
Winslow, Arkansas, is a city in southern Washington County. Located in the northwest part of Arkansas, the community was a stagecoach stop for many years. On December 11, 1876, the town received its first post office.…
Small Talk with Communities Unlimited Episode 3
Small Talk with Communities Unlimited is the podcast to empower rural communities. In Episode 3 of our Broadband series, Area Director of Broadband Catherine Krantz discusses Broadband funding by giving some…
Small Talk with Communities Unlimited Episode 2
Catherine Krantz, Area Director of Broadband at Communities Unlimited, joins us again to speak to rural communities about preparing for broadband and what you need to know. Also, swiss cheese.
South Texas Water Supply Gets Loan To Prepare For Future
Military Highway Water Supply (MHWSC) is in southeastern Hidalgo County, TX. La Feria borders it to the west by Weslaco and to the east in Cameron County. Situated between the towns of Mercedes and Progreso, the water supply…
Small Talk with Communities Unlimited Episode 1
Small Talk with Communities Unlimited is the podcast to empower rural communities. In episode 1, of a 3-episode series, we talk with Catherine Krantz. Catherine is the Area Director of Broadband at CU and,…
South Delaware County Regional Water Authority
Originally, named Flint Ridge Rural Water District (FRRWD), South Delaware County Regional Water Authority (SDCRWA) is in Kansas, Oklahoma, and began on May 19, 2017. The system’s goal is to provide safe, clean, water to all…
Melosong Properties
**Update 8/2/22** Watch Vickie’s progress in a new video Vickie Woodard, the CEO of Melosong Properties, Inc., a real estate company in England, Arkansas is too familiar with the struggles that her hometown of England…
