Dear Friends:
The Ferguson Road Initiative (FRI) has a bold VISION for the future and believes the BEST DAYS are yet to come! Building on our 13 year track record as an official Department of Justice Weed and Seed Site serving our far East Dallas community — 70,700 residents, across 35 neighborhood and crime watch organizations, over 60 apartment communities, dozens of faith organizations, and several public schools, — we are ready to begin the next decade of service.
Working in a strong alliance — FRI, the City and Law Enforcement partnerships, along with elected and appointed officials –we empower the community and make it the most desirable place to live, work, worship, and recreate in Dallas!
The exciting November launch of the COMMUNITY CONNECTION membership campaign at Highland Park Cafeteria in Casa Linda Plaza is the beginning of new era for FRI. Along with our new Business and Resident Members, we will all work together to realize our Vision – “Complete Economic Revitalization of far East Dallas” and our Mission – “transform far East Dallas into a safe, beautiful, prosperous and proud community.” I hope you saw the positive news articles about FRI over the Thanksgiving holidays.
Here are links to the articles.
and
Let me tell you about the Community Connection membership program that links residents with local business.

Community Connection businesses, community groups, faith organizations, and residents connect through volunteer opportunities to keep our community safe, the families strong, and the schools improving! In addition, Community Connection business members get to offer new customers discounts and incentives for shopping local along with many other benefits. We are excited to have YOU help set the direction on the programs and projects for 2012. To learn more and to receive our communications, go to https://www.fergusonroad.org. If you become a Community Connection Member — your name will be entered to win a free iPad! We are moving into the digital age and want to keep in touch.

Now is a great time to join FRI! If you are not a member yet, I invite you to join today, by going to our website at https://www.fergusonroad.org. If you are a member, Thank You! We appreciate your loyalty, support, and generosity. If you are considering any nonprofit charitable gifts at the end of this year, we hope you will consider  making a contribution to FRI. Again, this can be made at https://www.fergusonroad.org. The programs and services we bring to the community continue to raise our quality of life in far East Dallas.
Sincerely,
Vikki J. Martin, President  —– Alice Zaccarello, Executive Director
FRI Community Connection . . .  Count Me In!
Dear Business Friends here are some special benefits businesses should consider when thinking about becoming a member of FRI:
GENERAL BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
  1. We PROMOTE your business
  2. Membership Plaque and Window Sticker.
  3. Community Connection Promotions and Discounts – You are entitled to provide and take advantage of discounts and promotions at local businesses that support FRI.
  4. Customer Referrals – FRI will refer your business and encourage residents to shop local and support FRI Community Connection members.
  5. FRI E-Blast Article – You may submit two 250 word articles each year promoting your business in our E-Blast, sent to residents in far East Dallas zip codes 75218 and 75228.
  6. FRI Community Connections Directory – Your business will be listed in FRI’s annual printed directory distributed to residents and business newcomers.
  7. FRI Community Connections Website Directory & Advertising – Your business will be listed in FRI’s online directory. You may also purchase web advertising to promote your business on our website.
  8. Special Event Opportunities – You will receive marketing opportunities, some free, and some at a nominal cost, at Community Connection Events.
  9. Event Sponsorship – You will have several opportunities to sponsor FRI Community Connection events, either in-cash or in-kind, to promote your business. We will work with you to select the way you wish to be promoted – in print, on banners, public recognition, etc.
  10. We introduce you to IMPORTANT PEOPLE
  11. FRI Business Networking – You are invited to attend or to host networking events where all FRI Community Connections, both residents and businesses will be invited.
  12. FRI Community Connection Annual  Gala – You will be invited to participate in our annual fundraising gala. There are many opportunities to promote your business – live and silent auctions, promotions, sponsorship, in-kind contributions, etc.
  13. Meet Elected and Appointed Officials – FRI has great relationships with those who represent our area – congressman, city council, boards and commissions, and city staff. We will provide opportunities for you to personally meet them at FRI events.
  14. We provide practical TOOLS to help you grow your business
  15. Job Posting/Recruitment  – You may post employment opportunities at your place of business at no cost. Find qualified employees who live in the community.
  16. Seminars – FRI will host two annual Educational Seminars for Community Connection business members in partnership with agencies that can provide you with tools and skills to grow your business.