Wanda Adams was elected to Houston City Councilmember for District D. For as long as I can remember I have been excited about making a difference. As a young woman on the campus Texas Southern University, where I obtained my Bachelors of Science in Public Affairs, I knew that my life's purpose would be shaped by my desire to serve. My education and community involvement ignited a spark in me that has continued to burn brighter every day, as it has been over 16 years since I began my public service career.
After graduation, I had the unique opportunity to work at a government-based transitional program for women re-entering society. This position helped peak my interest in homeless issues, and from that experience I moved into a role with a non-profit organization whose mission was to assist homeless at-risk youth. During my time with this group I was exposed to many eye-opening challenges and often found myself searching for ways that I could do more to help the devastating situation. Therefore, the next stop on my community service journey would land me at the city's Housing Authority. It was at this point that the political bug began to bite.
While working for the Harris County Mental Health and Mental Retardation Association (MHMRA) as a Clinical Coordinator, I encountered many new challenges and learning experiences that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. In 2000, I started working in the Citizen's Assistance Division of the Mayor's Office as a Senior Community Liaison. This position afforded me the "Wanda-ful" opportunity to serve the Southwest Quadrant of Houston. The residents in this area voiced their needs and concerns, and a strong working relationship was built. I am fortunate that these residents were brought into my life because they helped reinforce the value found in being a strong and committed worker for those who need a voice.
I believe that God has great design for my life as it continues to evolve. Currently, I am fulfilling my commitment to Houstonians by working to promote the importance of recycling as the Community Relations Coordinator with the Solid Waste Management Department.
Every day I work to solve problems for Houstonians. I am a committed public servant. As an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. I have an opportunity to give back our community and also collaborate with women around the world who strive to do the same. I have also displayed my commitment as a Sunday school teacher at Fountain of Praise Church and as a volunteer for the American Red Cross, Keep Houston Beautiful, YMCA and YWCA Meals on Wheels in the Sunnyside community.
I continue to feel a greater calling in my life. I would love the opportunity to serve the residents of Houston City Council District D. I am well versed in their needs and concerns. I am familiar with the issues facing all the areas of this district because I have been working to resolve them from the frontlines for over a decade. My experience as a city employee has made me well connected with the necessary resources to resolve issues and provided me with the skills to make it happen.
