Come learn about Project Duncanville

Those who would like to learn more about Project Duncanville - a major outreach effort taking place in the city - have their chance Saturday, June 2.

From 10 a.m.-4 p.m., various activities will take place as part of Project Duncanville Day, when Mayor David Green will be part of the dedication of the home at 227 W. Center St. as the official Project Duncanville facility.

Duncanville TODAY

The story you are reading was originally published in Duncanville TODAY.

Be sure to check out the TODAY Newspapers Online for more in-depth community news coverage.

“As a pastor in this community for 20 years, I have noticed the changes in our community and the needs around us. Several people in our congregation have worked together to develop a plan to help us address some of those needs,” Project Duncanville: Who is my Neighbor? representative Sonny Conatser said in an introductory letter about the group.

Project Duncanville was the brainchild of an elder at Duncanville's Southwest Harvest Church, who wanted to help those in need and give others the opportunity to do good works.

“This is inspired by God, but we're not pushing a religious message. We want to inspire good works as a community service,” Project Duncanville staffer Kim Agnew said.

Following a detailed plan of action developed by Alsup, volunteers began knocking on doors April 2 and have since mowed yards, installed smoke detectors and painted addresses on curbs. The group is gearing up for minor home repairs.

June 2, those interested may gather at Southwest Harvest facilities, located at 201 and 202 W. Center St. to be assisted or to learn about assisting with the program.

“We will have free clothes, household appliances and more for Duncanville residents in need,” Deborah Franklin, Conatser's administrative assistant, said.

The church's food pantry and counseling center will be open and a widows luncheon is set for 11 a.m. and guests are asked to RSVP to 214-206-0198.

Those who would like to learn about volunteering for Project Duncanville or have items to donate may call the above number, as well.

A blood drive will be held and guests may make appointments for free mammograms from the YWCA.

Free hot dogs and hamburgers will be served from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Activities for children include games and movies as well as sno cones and popcorn.

The day marks the completion of Project Duncanville's Phase 1 efforts at 681 houses. June 3, Project Duncanville moves into Phase 2, 389 houses.

Agnew said volunteers from the church and community are starting with a four-phase map surrounding Southwest Harvest but will expand as interest allows.

“Our plan is to find the elderly, widowed, single parents and low-income families that may need help around their houses,” Conatser said. “We are calling for volunteers to join us in making Duncanville a nice place to live, work and play.”

To assist Project Duncanville continue its efforts, monetary gifts may be made online at pro jectduncanville.org or by contacting the Project Duncanville phone number.

In-kind gifts are also sought. Gifts in kind are non-monetary items of tangible personal property or other physical assets that represent value to Project Duncanville.

Conatser said the project's continued success depends on local help.

“I know you all want Duncanville to be the best it can be and we can work together to see that happen.”