History

The initial activity of what was later to become Urban Outreach, Inc. (UOI) began in the Heights area of Houston in 1993 as an outreach effort of one church.  The activity began to expand, and it was recognized that there existed many opportunities to reach additional people through a separate organization.  This insight led to organizing Urban Outreach, Inc. which was granted 501 (c) (3) status on January 23, 1996.  The ministry quickly expanded in the Heights providing after-school programs, school assemblies, and a Christian Summer Camping Program for inner-city kids, most of whom are "at risk" in this area.

In 1997, a second outreach organization was formed to do ministry in the Spring Branch area of Houston, the Apartment Ministry Program (APM).  The initial thrust of the ministry was to serve in the low-income apartment complexes within Spring Branch.  However, the need for this type ministry was so great that UOI experienced significant growth in the Spring Branch community to the degree that the program was expanded to other areas of Houston.  UOI presently ministers in 12 apartment complexes and, as a result, more than 3000 family members' lives are being touched by this one UOI program.  Our three year strategic plan calls for significant growth in this program.

In late 1998, UOI organized a third unit, the Near Northside Outreach and has been providing youth work and programs in the schools, churches, and mission centers in this area and in the Heights section of Houston.

The Character Development in Schools Program (CDSP) was implemented nearly 10 years ago to facilitate  in-school mentoring, student advocacy, and character education during and after school hours. Currently in four schools, more than 300 students participated.

The Christian Summer Camping Program CSCP) program was begun in 1996, and to date UOI has been blessed to have the privilege of providing a life changing experience for nearly 2500 youth.  The program provides a week-long meaningful Christian summer recreation opportunity for Houston inner-city youth at the beautiful Camp of the Hills near Marble Falls, Texas on Lake Travis.
 
Over time, UOI launched the WINGS life skills program.  The WINGS program aids students in re-prioritizing and refocusing their lives, while also helping them to gain the confidence and life skills that they need to succeed both personally and vocationally.

Urban Outreach remains committed to addressing additional needs in the Houston community and collaborating with key partners and supporters to leverage available resources to inner-city families.  Food, clothing, home furnishings, and computer equipment are distributed to families in need throughout Houston.

Building on its many years of successful programming, Urban Outreach is committed to expanding its reach to meet the increased demand for its services due to the downturn in the economy and the lingering affects of Hurricane Ike.