Richard “Chico” Smith of Trinity Restoration Ministries
Richard “Chico” Smith (pictured on the left, above) exemplifies the power of transformation, perseverance, and purpose. After overcoming significant early-life challenges – including three prison sentences – he progressed through every level of Trinity Restoration Ministries: resident, graduate, house manager, program manager, and ultimately Executive Director. Guided by the mentorship of entrepreneurs and community leaders, Richard developed a leadership approach grounded in integrity, accountability, and compassion.
In addition to his work at TRM, Richard is an active leader in the DFW marketplace. Through Llano River Fence Company, he has estimated and overseen major construction projects, including large-scale fencing installations at Dallas Love Field and DFW Airport. He extends his commitment to service into South Dallas, where he regularly assists elderly residents with repairs and renovation projects that enhance their safety and quality of life.
Richard also serves as an ordained deacon at Cornerstone Baptist Church, where he oversees construction projects and property management. He played a key role in the church's expansion from a handful of properties to a fully developed campus. For the past 20 years, he has been a consistent volunteer and supporter of numerous organizations throughout South Dallas, reflecting his belief that, as he often says, “God blessed me with my hands.”
Richard has been married for 16 years to his wife, Ashanti, and they are the proud parents of their daughter, Shiloh Grace. He also co-teaches the marriage life group at Cornerstone Baptist Church. Richard is a dedicated husband, father, mentor, and leader – and a powerful testimony to what becomes possible when faith, purpose, and hard work align.
For our program this Friday please bring men's full size soap, toothpaste and deodorant for the incarcerated people that Trinity Restoration Ministries support.
System Upgrade
We successfully upgraded our Clubrunner system to the latest version over Thanksgiving. Your login remains the same. The biggest thing you'll notice is that the user interface is different, a bit easier to use. Other changes:
Better prospecting system – not a complete prospecting system, but better than it was.
Possibly something we can use
Enhanced Finance, Billing, and E-commerce/Fundraising Support
Doesn't affect us immediately because we use QuickBooks, but it's something we might want to use in the future.
Database restructuring and clean up.
Not something we'll notice, probably, but it's a better system without redundant membership data.
Better list management for emails.
Something we could use of prospect lists.
15 for 5 - 15% Growth Every Year for 5 Years
Do you know who should join our club? It's good for us, good for the community, and good for them. Research shows that people who volunteer or participate in service clubs tend to be healthier, live longer, and report higher levels of happiness and purpose in life. The combination of social connection, community involvement, and meaningful service contributes significantly to overall well-being. So do them a favor and invite them to join the Addison Rotary Club!
Trivia answer: Interact. The first Interact club was established in 1962 in Melbourne, Florida, while the first Rotaract club was established in 1968 in Charlotte North Carolina. (Source = Rotary International web site)
