The Center for Health Empowerment in South Texas (CHEST) officially opened CHEST South on Saturday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, facility tours, and a community resource fair.
The new location is called CHEST South in anticipation of creating similar partnerships in other closed school buildings and communities across San Antonio. The project gives new purpose to an existing space while connecting South San Antonio residents with valuable services, programs and resources.
FirstDay Foundation President and CEO Kevin C. Dinnin joined local elected officials, South San Antonio ISD leaders and community partners for the grand opening. During the celebration, FirstDay Foundation was recognized as the largest foundation contributor to CHEST South.
Special appreciation was also extended to the FirstDay Foundation employees who helped prepare the facility, including Shawn, Daniel, Marilu Reyna, Connie Belciug, Ph.D., Lorraine Pulido, Ph.D., Sarah, Marina Flores Salgado and Mylaina. Their work on the building, signage, ribbons, balloons and other details helped make the event picture-perfect.
Community Support Brings CHEST South to Life
Jim Perschbach was recognized as CHEST South’s largest individual donor. He has consistently supported the project, personally contributing toward lighting for the building and its food pantry.
The South Texas Business Partnership led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, while the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Greater San Antonio Chamber joined the celebration. Volunteers from ABLDP and Frost For Good also assisted with Saturday’s activities.
CHEST South’s grand opening was made possible through the dedication of many people and organizations. Appreciation goes to Board Chair Dr. Lyssa Ochoa, the Board of Directors, the Health Empowerment Zone Advisory Committee, elected officials, donors, supporters, volunteers, interns, advocates, community members and neighbors who attended and supported the project.
Special recognition also goes to CHEST President and CEO Adriana Rocha Garcia for her leadership and dedication throughout the development of CHEST South.
Saturday’s celebration marked more than the opening of a new facility. It was the beginning of a community-centered partnership designed to strengthen neighborhoods, connect residents with resources and create a model that could serve additional communities across San Antonio.
Visit CHEST South
CHEST South is located behind Dwight Middle School at 419 Lovett Ave., San Antonio, TX 78211. To learn more about its services, programs and upcoming community events, call 210-416-6199 or visit www.chestsatx.org.
