Houston is an utterly amazing place brimming with unique organizations, things to do and places to visit. This series of classes features guest speakers who tell us about these organizations, events and fun and educational places we can visit with possible volunteer opportunities.
This class meets from 10 am until 11 am on the Thursdays
(when LEOH is in session.)
The Fall 2026 session will begin September 10 with registration.
Classes will follow on consecutive Thursdays, ending on October 29.
Below, see what exciting topics and speakers are scheduled for the Fall!
September 17 COMPASSIONATE HOUSTON
Pam Lewis, Ph.D., Board Chair, discusses the non-profit’s founding, its mission, and how it has been instrumental in Houston’s designation as a Compassionate City.
September 24 PROPERTY TAX CHANGES AND THE ROLE OF HCAD
Mabel Menefee, Community Relations Administrator, Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD) describes the recent changes to the Texas property tax system and HCAD’s role, why exemptions are the best way to save money on property taxes, and how to protest property values.
October 1 PORT OF HOUSTON
Lisa Ashley-Daniels, Director of Media Relations, provides an overview of the Port and discusses the Houston Ship Channel and global trade.
October 8 SENIORS – HAVE YOU DONE YOUR HOMEWORK?
Nico Nortje, Ph.D., M.A. (Psych), Associate Vice President, Clinical Ethics and Goal-Concordant Care, and Associate Professor, Critical Care Medicine, UT MD Anderson, discusses the preparations and ethical healthcare decisions we must make as seniors.
October 15 ATTWATER PRAIRIE CHICKEN NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Jaide Cooper, Wildlife Refuge Specialist, tells us that although the refuge was originally established to protect this endangered species, it also serves as one of the largest remnants of native coastal prairie in southeast Texas.
October 22 BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL THERAPY DOGS
Susan (Suzy) Lovejoy, describes the work of this non-profit organization, The Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs, Inc., in training dogs for their work in providing loving and empathic support to those in need in nursing homes, hospitals, psychiatric wards, and even prisons.
October 29 TIGHT-KNIT NEIGHBORS, BETTER LIVES
Daniel Potter, PhD, reviews the latest Kinder Houston Area Survey, which indicates that neighborhoods with strong relationships and shared values increase the probability of good health and feeling safe at home.
