Change The World Impact
Change the World Allen (CTWA) has a profound impact on the lives of those in need. By providing home repairs to those who cannot afford them – making their homes cleaner, safer and healthier – we improve the quality of life for those who are struggling. We help reduce the burden of poverty and aging in our community and make a difference in the lives of those who most need help. CTWA also works with the community for service such as the cleanup of city trails and other not for profit partners like Send Hope by packaging Kids Against Hunger meals for hungry families.
CTWA volunteers form strong bonds with each other through shared experiences and common goals. They teach and learn practical, lifelong skills. They can develop a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect which can lead to lifelong friendships. Volunteers sometimes form bonds with the people they are helping, as they get to know them and understand their struggles. As they become more invested in the cause and more aware the impact we have on one another, volunteers form bonds with the greater community.
Our Story
How We Got Started
Change the World Allen (CTWA) was formed in 2012 at the First United Methodist Church in Allen, Texas. Inspired by the book, “Change the World: Recovering the Message and Mission of Jesus,” by Mike Slaughter, the group endeavored to function as the hands and feet of God in the community.
Over the years, CTWA grew, garnered interest and support from the community and other organizations. We have received numerous honors, awards and recognitions for our work.
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2014 Spirit of Allen Award: By the Allen-Fairview Chamber of Commerce or services provided to the community
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2014 Grant: Given by RETHINK CHURCH, a division of the United Methodist Church
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2021 & 2022: People’s Impact Network Grant
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2020-2023: City of Allen Grants
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Recognition by North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church
Where We Are Now
In 2019, CTWA became a year-round, 501 (c) nonprofit organization that provides service opportunities for individuals, families and groups from January through December. We partner with multiple local organizations, including Live Love Allen and Keep Allen Beautiful, to meet the needs of the community and also provide opportunities to learn more about the needs of our community and how to serve. We are committed to helping others and making a positive impact.
Community Partnerships
Civic Engagement
Respect and Inclusion
Pursuit of Excellence
Change the World Allen Board of Directors
Eric Free – Board President
Eric joined CTW Allen when it began in 2012, first as project leader then in Logistics and Board roles. A resident of Allen since 1994, he attends First United Methodist Church of Allen with his wife, Laura.
His passions include sailing and serving others. He’s worked in telecom for decades and wants to give back to the community. CTW Allen inspires him by sharing lovingkindness across so many recipients, volunteers and donors.
Mickey Barton
Mickey has worked with Change the World for many years. He has had two careers. First sixteen years as a carpenter then twenty plus years designing and developing software Applications. He has a BS in Computer Science and an MS in Computer Science from University of Southern Mississippi. He is currently retired and serving as a Missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Married with eight children and 23 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
James Browne
James serves as an elder at Greenville Oaks Church Of Christ where he and his wife, Ramona, and their two daughters have attended for the past 11 years. He began volunteering with Change the World Allen almost 10 years ago. Community Service is one of his passions. In fact, James owns two service-oriented businesses: Credit Repair and Insurance. James seeks to follow the example of Jesus when “…he went around doing good…” (Acts 10:38, NIV) His hobbies include spending time with his family, listening to audio-books, and watching sci-fi movies.
Rev. Josh Esparza
Rev. Josh Esparza is the Associate Pastor at First United Methodist Church of Allen. Josh is a DFW native who grew up in Frisco, TX. Josh believes faith communities can foster unique opportunities to serve local communities while creating opportunities for neighborhoods to share their gifts and passions. Josh also serves on Wespath’s Young Leader Advisory Board, Cultiv8 Community’s Advisory Board and fosters connectional support for BIPOC clergy and laity within the North Texas Conference.
Jenn Meldrum
Jenn Meldrum has been an active supporter of Change the World Allen for over 10 years and as a board member is anxious to expand the reach of Change the World Allen to more individuals in our community. Jenn considers herself a “professional volunteer” and is passionate about being involved in her community. She has served in a variety of roles in her children’s schools, her church and many local agencies such as ACO (All Community Outreach), AMA (Allen Ministerial Alliance) Food Pantry, The Samaritan Inn and Hugs Cafe. She and her husband Jay have lived in the Allen/Lucas area since 2005 with their 5 children.
April Smith
April has always resided in Allen. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering. Change the World Allen is one of the many groups that she is involved in to give back to her community and fellow residents. She first started as a Project Leader over 2 yard work projects for three years. She joined the board in 2022 to help as needed.
Debbie Walters
Since Debbie Walters moved to Allen in 1994, she’s worked in corporate sales and marketing, been a consultant, raised two sons, and cared for her senior mother. In addition to working with Change the World Allen, Debbie also serves on the Keep Allen Beautiful Board. She enjoys bike riding, bird watching, walking her dog, and her husband’s cooking.