Velma Mitchell

I can think of no one more deserving of recognition than Velma Mitchell, whose life and work have brought hope, healing, and unity to communities across Dallas.Velma’s story began 27 years ago when she met Mike Fechner, a man from North Dallas. At that time, the barriers between North and South Dallas seemed insurmountable—rooted in decades of systemic inequities and misunderstandings. Yet, through the unlikely friendship of Velma and Mike, a spark of change was ignited. They realized that, despite the divides, there was a shared humanity waiting to be discovered. Together, they launched BridgeBuilders, a nonprofit dedicated to bridging relationships between residents of North and South Dallas.

 

Today, Velma serves as both a Board Member and a tireless Community Advocate for BridgeBuilders. Her unwavering commitment to the people of South Dallas has not only transformed lives but has also shifted perspectives across the entire city. Through her leadership, we Engage, Equip, and Empower our neighbors. This mission comes alive in initiatives like the South Dallas Community Market, a vibrant space where neighbors access fresh produce, connect with local resources, and cultivate a sense of community. Velma was instrumental in shaping this project, listening to the voices of our neighbors to ensure it reflected their needs and desires.

 

What makes Velma truly exceptional is her belief that the only thing South Dallas lacks is access to the resources and opportunities that other parts of our city take for granted. She sees the creativity, intelligence, and passion of her neighbors and works tirelessly to provide platforms where their voices can be heard. Many of our programs at BridgeBuilders have grown directly from the ideas and dreams of the South Dallas community—because Velma ensured that they had a seat at the table.

 

Velma’s story embodies the essence of your initiative: she has crossed lines of difference, transforming not only her community but also those who come from outside of it. By building bridges between North and South Dallas, Velma has shown that when we come together, the impact is far greater than what we could achieve alone.

 

Her life is a testament to the power of connection, kindness, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every neighbor. She has shown us that, with commitment to one another, Dallas can truly be a city where everyone thrives. Thank you again for this opportunity to share her story. It would be an honor for Velma’s legacy to be celebrated as a beacon of hope and unity for all of Dallas.