In a world where community-driven initiatives are often overshadowed by larger-scale programs, the Thursday Morning Breakfast initiative in Houston stands as a beacon of hope and collaboration. Led by its founder, Tamani Mondani, this weekly gathering is inspired by a similar program—Brother Craig V. Lee's Tuesday Morning Breakfast in Shreveport. Together, these initiatives aim to foster stronger communities by connecting people with the knowledge, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
The Mission of Thursday Morning Breakfast
The primary goal of Thursday Morning Breakfast is to bridge the gap between grassroots leaders, subject matter experts, and the community members they serve. As Tamani Mondani explains, the idea is to “invite powerful speakers to share information about the work they are doing to help make the community better.” By highlighting local efforts, the initiative creates a platform for actionable solutions and meaningful change.
Tamani’s vision builds on the foundation laid by Brother Craig V. Lee, whose Tuesday Morning Breakfast has been a pillar of community engagement in Shreveport. Together, these programs create a network of local changemakers working tirelessly to address challenges in public and private sectors alike.
Spotlight on Black United Fund of Texas
During a recent session of Thursday Morning Breakfast, the spotlight was on Marcus Glenn, President of the Black United Fund of Texas (BUFTX).
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Marcus shared the inspiring history and ongoing mission of BUFTX, which was established in 1987 as a response to the lack of opportunities for Black-led organizations to participate in workplace fundraising campaigns.
Before BUFTX’s formation, the United Way was the sole organization permitted to solicit funds in Houston workplaces. This exclusivity limited the ability of Black-led nonprofits to raise awareness and resources for their causes. In a landmark move, BUFTX filed a lawsuit against both the City of Houston and United Way, successfully opening the door for more inclusive workplace fundraising efforts.
As Marcus recounted, the victory was not just about gaining access—it was about empowering the Black community to take ownership of the causes they wanted to support. “We started as an opportunity for Black people to decide what type of community efforts they were going to support,” he explained. This shift allowed individuals to allocate funds directly to organizations that aligned with their values, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and sustainability.
A Platform for Growth and Collaboration
The importance of initiatives like Thursday Morning Breakfast and BUFTX lies in their ability to bring people together. By providing a platform for leaders like Marcus Blinn, these programs ensure that critical stories, lessons, and opportunities reach those who can benefit most.
Tamani Mondani’s focus on collaboration, mentorship, and sharing actionable insights reflects a deep commitment to progress. The initiative doesn’t just aim to educate—it seeks to inspire and equip individuals to take an active role in improving their communities.
Community Support and Local Partnerships
Programs like Thursday Morning Breakfast thrive on community support, and local businesses play a key role in their success. This session was hosted at Gatlin’s BBQ, a beloved Houston establishment known not only for its delicious food but also for its dedication to uplifting the community.
Located at 3510 Ella Boulevard, Houston, TX, Gatlin’s BBQ has become more than a restaurant—it’s a gathering place for those looking to connect, collaborate, and make a difference. By offering their space for events like these, they exemplify how local businesses can contribute to larger community-building efforts.
Looking Ahead
Thursday Morning Breakfast represents the power of grassroots action. By amplifying the voices of leaders like Tamani Mondani and Marcus Blinn, the program ensures that the work of local changemakers doesn’t go unnoticed. With each session, they provide not only inspiration but also tangible opportunities for personal and collective growth.
As the initiative continues to grow, its impact will undoubtedly extend beyond Houston, creating a ripple effect that inspires other communities to take similar action. Through collaboration, education, and empowerment, Thursday Morning Breakfast is paving the way for a better future—one conversation at a time.
For more information on upcoming events, or to get involved, stay connected with Thursday Morning Breakfast. And if you’re in the area, be sure to visit Gregory Gatlin at Gatlins BBQ to support businesses that’s making a real difference in Houston.
Donations accepted at https://www.buftx.org/