Show Notes
As a Fairview resident of 21 years, Angela Poen has enjoyed watching the town grow into one of the most prosperous small communities in one of the wealthiest counties in the country.. With that in mind, it might surprise some to know that 48,000 children in this county experience food insecurity at least once a year. Doing something to resolve that is where Poen, a former schoolteacher, has focused her efforts. Poen has led an initiative to build the first community kitchen in Collin County that will serve meals to anyone who asks, no questions asked, and no paperwork required. The 4,800-square-foot kitchen and restaurant at 501 Howard St. in McKinney will be open from 6 to 8 p.m. daily and serve guests in a large dining space with private tables — just as they'd experience at any other restaurant.
She says while the community is blessed to have food pantries and other resources for people in need, this project fills a need for people in even more specific situations, such as not having access to a places to prepare or store food, seniors who will benefit from social interaction, or students who receive free or reduced breakfast and lunch but do not have options for evening meals.
"This is all about dining with dignity. Our volunteers will come and ask them what they would like to eat. We may have a slim menu, but we don't want them to feel like it's one size fits all," Poen says. "We just want them to have the opportunity to make the decision about what they are eating."
The idea came about seven years ago when Poen and a group of friends who were conducting a Bible study at her home stopped to acknowledge and be thankful for the abundance of food they'd all brought to share. In attendance were a couple of local school principals who brought up their personal awareness of food insecurity in the community. That sparked the inspiration to research the scope of the issue, which planted the seed for a solution.
In this episode, hear from Poen about the many serendipitous events that happened next: Finding the perfect spot of land, raising $1 million to completely fund construction, receiving donations to equip a nice kitchen, partnering with local culinary students for food prep, and developing a garden on the property that will help supply the restaurant and also serve as an educational garden for children and adults.
Poen says the building is almost complete and the organization is ramping up efforts to fully develop its volunteer base. Visit www.communitygardenkitchen.org to learn more or volunteer to help with this incredible new effort.
More from Getting Neighborly -- Town of Fairview
In this episode, Dave welcomes Laura Johnson, Executive Director of the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center in Lucas, TX. With her unique background in animal behavior, business, and conservation, Laura walks us through the vital work her organization does rehabilitating injured raptors—birds of prey like hawks, owls, and eagles—while also shedding light on the efforts to protect the endangered Blackland Prairie ecosystem right in our backyard. From the surprising costs of bird rehabilitation to the essential role raptors play in keeping our communities healthy, Laura shares how passionate staff and hundreds of volunteers work tirelessly to support wildlife. Plus, we'll learn practical ways residents can get involved, from building pocket prairies to volunteering, and hear inspiring stories about connecting kids and adults alike to nature. Whether you're a longtime resident or just discovering the unique neighborly spirit of our area, this episode will open your eyes to the wild side of North Texas—and why it's worth protecting. To find out more, visit: https://bpraptorcenter.org/ Key Topics Discussed: Laura Johnson's professional and educational background, blending animal behavior science and business
"Super" Dave welcomes Carrie Campbell, founder of Mane Mentors, to share her story about transitioning from a corporate insurance career in Los Angeles to starting a purpose-driven equine mentorship program in Fairview, Texas. Carrie Campbell explains how the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a major life change for her and her husband, leading them to relocate to North Texas, embrace small-town living, and follow her lifelong passion for horses. Now serving the adult disability community, Carrie Campbell blends horsemanship, holistic biomechanics, and mindset practices to help neurodiverse individuals reconnect with their bodies and build confidence, all set within a serene and supportive barn environment. They discuss the unique aspects of running a business in Fairview, including the welcoming, collaborative nature of the community, and the inclusive spirit that supports newcomers and small businesses alike. Carrie Campbell describes both the challenges and rewards of launching a business rooted in heart and personal passion, emphasizing the importance of continually reaffirming one's purpose. The conversation highlights the value of showing up, making connections, and the impact that mentorship and animal-assisted experiences can have on people of all ages and abilities. To find out more about Mane Mentors, visit: https://www.manementors.com/
"Super" Dave welcomes Meg Latham, Director of Stewardship at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. Meg shares what it was like growing up on the sanctuary after her father, Dr. Harold Laughlin, became the museum's first director, hired by founder Miss Bessie Heard, who created the preserve to protect a piece of Collin County and educate children as development spread. They discuss the Heard's mission, 289-acre sanctuary, trails, seasonal wildlife viewing, and popular features like the animatronic dinosaur trail. Meg explains stewardship work, including community relationships, fundraising, and corporate volunteer projects, plus education programs, field trips, citizen science, and research partnerships, including bird banding and FrogWatch. To learn more about the museum, visit: https://www.heardmuseum.org/ Key Topics Discussed: Growing up at the Heard Museum How Meg's Family Arrived Meg's Career Path Stewardship Role Explained Nature Lessons and Conservatory Why the Heard Is More Than Just Family Fun
"Super" Dave sits down with Paula Phillips, a licensed occupational therapist and founder of Calibrating Lyfe in Fairview, Texas. Paula shares her extensive experience of over 20 years in the field, highlighting her passion for proactive, holistic approaches to health and quality of life. She discusses how her medical background shaped her understanding that too many individuals and families only react to health crises rather than taking meaningful prevention steps. This realization led her to create Calibrating Lyfe, where she works both with individuals and organizations to help them anticipate, prepare for, and navigate health transitions with confidence. They discuss the practical advice for maintaining long-term wellbeing, including the importance of hydration, healthy diet, balance, flexibility, and emotional health. Paula emphasizes the often-overlooked links between physical health, mental wellness, and social engagement, advocating for a comprehensive plan that supports independence and quality of life as we age. She also discusses common misconceptions about occupational therapy, the value of quality of life planning for business owners and families, and simple steps that anyone can take today to reduce future health risks. The episode is rounded out with reflections on community, advice for neighborly support, and practical recommendations for listeners to start recalibrating their lives. Key Topics Discussed: Paula's journey into occupational therapy and her Texas roots
Dave welcomes Jonathan Price, owner of theMagazine, a local bi-monthly magazine that focuses on celebrating life in Fairview and Lucas, Texas. Jonathan shares his passion for community-building through print media, explaining why he believes print still matters in a digital world. He talks about the magazine's role as a modern-day "front porch," helping residents connect on a deeper level with their neighbors, local businesses, and the various stories that make their community unique. Throughout the conversation, Dave and Jonathan discuss topics like the importance of fostering genuine community connections in an increasingly fast-paced and private world. Jonathan also discusses how the magazine goes beyond simple advertising by forming genuine partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits, aiming to create impactful stories that resonate throughout the community. He shares anecdotes about the power of local storytelling and why "the power of one" is at the heart of what he does—believing that even if one person is impacted, his work is a success. Key Topics Discussed: The continuing relevance and impact of print media in a digital landscape