Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Growing With the Westside, San Antonio

When we first met Oscar Felan, we knew he would be a great fit with our team. What we didn't know at the time, was how much he would teach us. He introduced us to a whole other side of San Antonio. The Westside turned out to be a hidden treasure with a vibrant culture and dedicated efforts in place for urban renewal. 
While personally investing time and attention into the Westside, Oscar became familiar with the Westside Development Corporation and the Mexican American Unity Council. Both organizations have a mission Oscar wanted to get behind: revitalize the Westside. 

The Westside Development Corporation is a city council created local government corporation. Their mission is to foster urban renewal and economic development on the Westside. In 2009, they established the Grow West Business Expansion and Attraction Program. They provide services to businesses based in the Westside or those looking to expand there. The services include business consulting, marketing through community profiles, assistance with financing, and advisement on contract procurement. 

The Mexican American Unity Council was incorporated in 1967. The initial goal of the council was to empower the Mexican American population of San Antonio both economically and politically. In 1976, the MACU purchased and renovated the old David Crockett Elementary School which acts as the council’s current headquarters. The building also houses many non-profits and community focused businesses. They offer G.E.D., ESL, and adult literacy in Spanish classes. There are also nutrition and art classes for both children and adults. Caregivers can partake in the Parent Engagement program to help them understand the school systems and how to advocate for their child. In the continued promotion of family, MACU has partnered with Precious Minds, New Connections for the Nurturing Parent Program, a 10 week parenting class.


River Valley fully supports Oscar’s efforts to work with both of these organizations. We’re excited to see what happens next for the city’s Westside. 

Be sure to check out the current office space available for lease in the MAUC headquarters building by clicking here. For more information on the spaces available please contact Oscar Felan, Realtor at (210) 853-5327 or at Oscar@rvreco.com.