Metrocrest Services Names New Members to Board of Directors

Metrocrest Services is pleased to announce the appointment of four new members to its Board of Directors. Jesse Castaneda, Margarita (Maggie) De La Rosa, Steven Graybill, and Cristal Retana join the full slate of officers and board members.

"This is a milestone year for the agency," notes Tracy Eubanks, CEO of Metrocrest Services. "As we prepare to move into a new facility having a Board of Directors filled with strong, dedicated members contributing their time and expertise is integral to successfully serving the needs of our community."

Jesse Castaneda, owner of a State Farm Insurance Agency in Farmers Branch and a Master Sergeant in Marine Corps Reserves, looks forward to sharing his marketing expertise to enhance the mission of Metrocrest Services. An active member of the community, Castaneda recruits schools and local businesses to participate in the annual Marine Corps Reserves toy drive, Toys for Tots. In addition, he is a Farmers Branch Chamber of Commerce board member, outdoor adventure coordinator for Sheep Dog Impact Assistance – North Texas Chapter, and a member of the Farmers Branch Police Chief's Advisory Committee.

Margarita (Maggie) De La Rosa, Chief of Strategic Initiatives for Carrollton Farmers Branch ISD (CFBISD), is passionate about ensuring CFBISD families have the tools they need to sustain a physically and mentally healthy lifestyle. Before joining CFBISD, De La Rosa was the principal of an economically disadvantaged elementary school in Austin ISD. As principal, in partnership with local organizations, she worked to enhance the lives of students and families through a variety of innovative programs and services. As a member of the Metrocrest Services Board of Directors, she looks forward to strengthening partnerships between CFBISD and Metrocrest Services.

Steven Graybill, President of Downstream Advisors Inc., is excited to share his business development expertise to increase Metrocrest Services' impact on the community. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Iowa State University, a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Houston, and a designation of Accredited Senior Appraiser Specializing in Business Valuation. In addition, Graybill is an active member of his church and is the Past President of the Rotary Club of Coppell.

Cristal Retana, Director of Government and Community Relations at Children's Health, works to develop new community partnerships with public officials, local organizations, and corporations in support of the hospital’s mission to help make life better for children. As a first-generation Texan and proud daughter of Mexican immigrants, Retana has a passion for strengthening her community. She is the former Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Farmers Branch and a long-time supporter of Metrocrest Services. When growing up, her parents received benefits from Metrocrest Services. Now, as a Metrocrest Services Board Member, she looks forward to using her experiences to showcase the agency's great work.

With demand for assistance increasing as the cost of rent, utilities, and food rise, Metrocrest Services relies more than ever on the leadership and skill of its Board of Directors. The nonprofit agency is currently in a growth phase, with the construction of new headquarters to be completed this year. The new building will become a gathering place serving the community for generations to come. For more information on the agency's relocation, visit msbuildingourfuture.org. 

Metrocrest Services to Honor "Hidden Heroes" in Community
Inaugural Hidden Heroes Luncheon to recognize community members creating positive change through everyday actions.

On Tuesday, November 1, 2022, at the first ever Hidden Heroes Luncheon, Metrocrest Services will honor Jason McCann accepting on behalf of Vari®, The McEvoy Family, Drs. Hooman and Tannaz Sedighi accepting on behalf of MTO Shahmaghsoudi® – School of Islamic Sufism®, and Morgan Merritt as this year’s Hidden Heroes.

"These individuals have been integral in reducing inequities in our community and helping to ensure all residents have access to the resources they need to navigate through crisis situations and stabilize their lives for a brighter future," shares Metrocrest Services CEO Tracy Eubanks. "We're excited to be able to celebrate their efforts."

Jason McCann will accept the Hidden Heroes award on behalf of the entire Vari® team. As CEO and Co-Founder of Vari®, Jason has created a culture that recognizes the importance of making a positive impact in the community. As part of the Vari® Community Giving program, the company has donated more than $6 million worth of furniture in-kind to nonprofit organizations across the country. In addition, Vari® provides paid volunteer time for all employees.

"My team was volunteering before I knew what Metrocrest Services even was," Jason said. "Once I volunteered, I wanted to do more. Metrocrest provides invaluable services to people in our local communities. We have been proud to support their incredible work for several years!"

The McEvoy Family has always understood the importance of helping others. Founder and "Retired Principal" of Western Extrusions, Patrick McEvoy Jr., sits on the board of the Constantin Foundation and has supported nonprofit organizations like Metrocrest Services since 1979. Patrick credits his son, Bennett McEvoy, now CEO of Western Extrusions, for creating a culture of community giving at the company. This year, the company implemented a monthly employee giving program benefiting Metrocrest Services, and Bennett is an active member of Metrocrest Services' Board of Directors.

"Growing up in Carrollton, I didn't realize we had so many people that needed some extra help. The important thing is, with Metrocrest Services, support is there. If we give them the resources, they help people get what they need to become self-sufficient," shares Patrick.

Drs. Hooman & Tannaz Sedighi are accepting the Hidden Heroes award on behalf of the students of MTO Shahmaghsoudi® – School of Islamic Sufism® (MTO), an international nonprofit organization with activities that span a range of community, charitable, and learning initiatives. As supporters of Metrocrest Services and other local nonprofits, the Sedighi's and their fellow MTO students strive to make the community a better place. "We're honored to support the great work at Metrocrest Services," said Hooman.

Morgan Merritt represents the next generation of philanthropists. In first grade, Morgan told her parents that for her birthday, she wanted all her gifts given to "people who needed it more." Morgan, now a senior at Ursuline Academy, has supported Metrocrest Services through volunteerism and in-kind donations since she chose to donate the toys she received at her first-grade birthday party to the organization. In 2020, she began hosting an annual Easter Egg Hunt to raise funds for Metrocrest Services. To date, the event has raised $5,000 for the organization. In addition to her work with Metrocrest Services, Morgan is a member of various student-led clubs, a donor to the Appalachian Service Project, and was an inaugural member of the city of Farmers Branch's Youth Advisory Council.

Morgan credits her dad for inspiring her to help others. "My dad is one of the most selfless people I know," shares Morgan. "He does not think twice about helping others. I strive to be more like him every day."

The Hidden Heroes Luncheon is Tuesday, November 1, 2022, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at The Westin Galleria Dallas. At the event, guests will enjoy fun and festivities with friends, network with community leaders, celebrate this year's Hidden Hero honorees, and browse the Hidden Treasures Boutique, a pop-up store with rare and unique items from the Metrocrest Resale store.

Sponsorships and individual tickets to the Hidden Heroes Luncheon are now available. As one of two annual fundraisers for the organization, proceeds from the event are critical to ensuring Metrocrest Services has the resources needed to help more than 25,000 northern Dallas County and southeastern Denton County residents each year. For more information, visit metrocrestservices.org/beahero/.

Metrocrest Services, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to providing programs for individuals, families, and seniors that lead to self-sufficiency and foster independence. Programs include rent and utility bill assistance, financial and budgeting assistance, food pantry, employment coaching and transportation, minor home repairs, and home-delivered meals to benefit seniors. Additionally, Metrocrest provides programs focused on children, including holiday gifts and summer food. For more information, visit metrocrestservices.org.

On Tuesday, April 5, 2022, at the 17^th Annual Keyholder Breakfast, over 400 community members gathered together to celebrate the work Metrocrest Services does to help North Texans out of crises and on a path to self-sufficiency. The event, held at the Courtyard by Marriott Dallas Carrollton Conference Center, hosted community leaders, donors, volunteers, and dozens of current and former clients. During the breakfast, many clients in attendance shared with event emcee Mike Doocy and the audience the impact Metrocrest Services has on their life.

"The kindness, compassion, and validation I've received from Metrocrest Services has resurrected my hope for the future," said Mary Beth at the breakfast. Mary Beth came to Metrocrest many years ago as a food pantry volunteer. In 2020, she suffered a severe heart attack that forced her into early retirement. Living solely on her social security, she relies on Metrocrest Services food pantry for healthy meals and recently began financial coaching. There wasn't a dry eye in the crowd as clients like Mary Beth expressed their gratitude for the services they received from the organization.

At the breakfast, Metrocrest Services also launched the Opportunities Fund, which allows Metrocrest Services to go above and beyond their regular services to lift the lives of our neighbors in need. In addition, Aaron Augustine, Allstate Insurance Agency, and The Branch Church received the Lou Sartor Heart for the Community Award for their commitment to serving the community.

"This Keyholder Breakfast was truly special," said COO Nicole Binkley. "Hearing the impact the organization has made on so many lives throughout the years reminds us that, together, we can build a thriving community for all."

Metrocrest Services, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to providing programs for individuals, families, and seniors that lead to self-sufficiency and foster independence. Programs include rent and utility bill assistance, financial and budgeting assistance, food pantry, employment coaching and transportation, minor home repairs, and home-delivered meals to benefit seniors. Additionally, Metrocrest provides programs focused on children, including holiday gifts and summer food. For more information, visit www.metrocrestservices.org.

In just over a month, community members rallied together to raise $100,000 for Metrocrest Services' Food Pantry, unlocking an additional $100,000 matching gift from Metrocrest Hospital Authority.

The pandemic has put a strain on thousands of people, with many families having to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table. For those neighbors in need, Metrocrest Services is a beacon of hope. "Now, it's more important than ever that funding is available to provide nutritious food to local families experiencing food insecurity," said Metrocrest Services CEO Tracy Eubanks. "Last year, we saw a 275% increase in neighbors visiting the food pantry, many for the first time. We're now serving roughly 150 families a day and anticipate this trend will continue well into 2021."

Food pantries nationwide are experiencing food shortages, and Metrocrest Services is no exception. "We're having to find new sources of food, and food inevitably costs us more," Eubanks said. "We have to pay to ship food from other states and compete with grocery stores." The money raised by community members and matched by Metrocrest Hospital Authority will provide 1,200,000 meals to those struggling with the economic impacts of COVID-19.

 “We are committed to improving the health of our community,” said Metrocrest Hospital Authority CEO John Mahalik. “One of the fundamental pillars of good health is proper nutrition. Metrocrest Services’ Food Pantry provides food to prepare balanced meals for residents who may not be able to afford these items on their own.”

About Metrocrest Services

Since 1971, Metrocrest Services has provided services for individuals, families, and seniors that lead to self-sufficiency and foster independence. Services include emergency financial assistance, financial coaching, food pantry access, employment coaching and job readiness, senior services, and more. For additional information, visit www.metrocrestservices.org.

Left photo - A line of cars waits to receive food from the Metrocrest Services drive-thru food pantry. Since the pandemic began, Metrocrest Services has provided 10,000+ meals daily. 

Right photo - Metrocrest Services receives a generous $100,000 matching grant from Metrocrest Hospital Authority. Pictured from left to right: Angela Campbell, Real Estate Manager, Metrocrest Hospital Authority; Tracy Eubanks, CEO, Metrocrest Services; John Mahalik, CEO Metrocrest Hospital Authority; Charles B. Heath, Former CEO Metrocrest Hospital Authority; Krista Weinstein, Director of Grants, Metrocrest Hospital Authority.

FARMERS BRANCH, Texas (January 31, 2020) –For over 40 years, Verity Instruments has delivered high performance process control solutions that help semiconductor manufacturers produce the advanced semiconductor technology demanded by industry and consumers worldwide.  But their community service has always focused on the community they call home. The company originated in north Dallas in 1979, moving to Addison in 1985 and then to its current location in Carrollton in 1995. In recognition of their outstanding commitment to the community, this global business will be receiving the prestigious Lou Sartor Heart for the Community Award. They will accept the award on April 3^rd at the Metrocrest Services 15th Annual Keyholder Breakfast, an event that is open to the public.

The Lou Sartor Heart for the Community Award from Metrocrest Services recognizes and celebrates a business that has shown an outstanding commitment to their community. By supporting the mission of Metrocrest Services, this business has impacted families, individuals, and seniors by providing significant resources to support programs and services. This award recipient has a “heart” for the community, as demonstrated by its consistent efforts to make a difference in the lives of those in need.  The award carries the name of Lou Sartor, a dedicated philanthropist and Metrocrest community member.

“We at Verity Instruments are humbled by our selection for this award.  We live and work in this community, so providing assistance to our neighbors at-risk is important to us.  In order to do that it’s imperative that we have an experienced social service delivery partner, said Mike Whelan, President & CEO of Verity Instruments.  “Through our association with Metrocrest Services for the past 20 years we have come to appreciate that they exemplify the best in stewardship and compassion, providing programs based on dignity and respect that promote paths toward independence wherever possible.  It is truly a privilege for us to support their efforts.”

Verity Instruments is being recognized for its commitment to the community that has spanned 20 years, including the significant impact the business has made on Metrocrest Services. In addition to their philanthropy that helps fund a variety of programs, the organization has provided volunteers to essential programs like Thanksgiving and Holiday Program, as well as strategic oversight as part of the Advisory Council.   

“We are so thrilled that Verity Instruments was chosen as this year’s recipient of the Lou Sartor Heart for the Community Award. The Verity Instruments team has been an integral part of the Metrocrest Services mission for nearly 20 years,” said Tracy Eubanks, CEO of Metrocrest Services. “Their consistent support has impacted the lives of thousands of individuals in our community in their time of need. Verity Instruments has raised the bar for corporate impact.”

Last year’s winner of the Lou Sartor Heart for the Community Award was Thomson Reuters which was recognized for years of generous support to Metrocrest Services. Previous award recipients include Parks Coffee and Sam Pack Ford.

The 15^th Annual Keyholder Breakfast will be held Friday, April 3, from 7:15-9:00 a.m. at the Westin Galleria Dallas. For ticket or sponsorship information, please visit Metrocrestservices.org or contact mharris@metrocrestservices.org.

Metrocrest Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing programs for individuals, families, and seniors that lead to self-sufficiency and foster independence.  In 2019, Metrocrest Services provided assistance to 12,806 adults, children and seniors, including 909,377 meals to families in need.  From rent and utility bill aid, to financial and budgeting assistance, employment counseling, a food pantry and home-delivered meals, Metrocrest Services provides for those who need a helping hand. The non-profit assists individuals living in Carrollton, Addison, Farmers Branch, Coppell and residents in the area of Dallas (75287) in Denton County. For more information, please visit www.metrocrestservices.org or call 972-446-2100.

Verity Instruments is a world leading manufacturer of optical emission and spectral reflectometry sensors and software used for controlling process endpoint in semiconductor manufacturing.  For over 40 years Verity has delivered high performance process control solutions that help semiconductor manufacturers produce the advanced semiconductor technology demanded by industry and consumers worldwide.  The company originated in north Dallas in 1979, moving to Addison in 1985 and then to its current location in Carrollton in 1995.