Since 2021, Evolve Houston has partnered with local nonprofits, Community Champions, and Corporate Catalysts to launch the eMobility Grant Initiative. Through this program, Evolve provides funding for grassroots eMobility projects that address transportation needs in historically underserved neighborhoods across Houston. From September to December 2024, the initiative welcomed grant applications from across the Greater Houston region.
During this period, Evolve enlisted nine Community Champions through a public nomination process. These Champions play a crucial role in reviewing grant applications, advocating for their communities, and identifying projects that bring the greatest value and impact to their neighborhoods.
As we introduce the 2024-2025 Community Champions cohort, we celebrate their dedication and the positive change they help bring to Houston. We also encourage community members to step forward and apply or nominate someone for the next round of Community Champions.
If you or someone you know is passionate about advancing clean transportation and community empowerment, visit the link below to learn more and submit an application.
Click Here to Nominate Someone, or Apply to be a Community Champion Today.
Mary Sias
My name is Mary Sias. I am currently retired serving as board member #9 on the Houston Commission for Disabilities and an Advocate for Lupus as a Consumer Reviewer with Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program. I am excited to join Evolve Houston as a Community Champion because I care about the environment. As a child my dream was to become an ecologist. I grew up and majored in business. I still care about the environment and this program affords me the opportunity to live the dream I once had as a child to help the environment.
Eric Ross
My name is Eric Ross. I currently work at L-H Transitional Center Inc. I am excited to join Evolve Houston as a Community Champion because I am passionate about creating positive change within the community. I believe in the mission of Evolve Houston to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by supporting and enabling the Houston area to increase electric vehicle adoption. As a Community Champion, I am eager to contribute my energy, skills, and ideas to help support and amplify the important work being done to build a stronger, more connected, and thriving community.
Keffus Falls III
My name is Kēffus Falls, III. I am currently the Founder and Creative Lead of Justice Pages. I am excited to join Evolve Houston as a Community Champion because sustainability is the future of our communities and neighborhoods in the city.
Darlene Kearney
My name is Darlene Kearney. I currently work at God's Lovely Butterflies Maternity Home as a role founder. I am excited join Evolve Houston as a Community Champion because I am in the community and love what I do.
Karla Martinez
My name is Karla Martinez. I currently work at Arup as the Americas Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Manager. I am excited to join Evolve Houston as a Community Champion because it is important that the projects our community is proposes are able to change the health, safety and wellbeing of Houston residents through new innovations.
Aiesha Odutayo
My name is Aiesha Odutayo and I currently work for Houston ISD as a Director for Student Experiences. I am excited to join Evolve Houston as a Community Champion because I enjoy working in the community and providing resources for the community.
Daja Gay
My name is Daja Gay. I am the founder of ENHERPWR and a yoga instructor. I am excited to join Evolve Houston as a Community Champion because this allows me the opportunity to continue on my journey of community engagement.
Angel Akins
My name is Angel Akins, and I currently work as a medical & school social worker. I am excited to join Evolve Houston as a Community Champion because I find deep fulfillment in being a servant leader because it allows me to empower others, fostering an environment where their growth and success come first. Serving with humility and compassion brings me joy, knowing that my leadership helps others reach their full potential.
Stephanie Broussard
My name is Stephanie Broussard. I currently work for Lee College as the Shared College Coordinator where I serve and support 5 independent school districts in the South Liberty County area. I am excited to join Evolve Houston as a Community Champion because I genuinely enjoy serving communities, families, and students as they pursue college/career readiness and higher education options and resources. I wholeheartedly enjoy bridging access to opportunities and providing avenues to equity in education through methods of transportation and innovation. Education and environmental sustainability for all!