Wednesday, October 15th, 2025 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
The Briar Club, 2603 Timmons Ln, Houston, TX 77027
Join us for a celebratory luncheon as we launch Fabric Forge, a bold new initiative from My Connect Community (MCC) that’s stitching together opportunity in Gulfton and Sharpstown. Discover how local talent and sewing skills are fueling jobs, businesses, and brighter futures—right here in Houston. Come connect, be inspired, and see what’s next.
Gene Graham
Ann & Johnny Johnson
Sultana & Moez Mangalji/Westmont Hospitality Group
Anonymous
Cynthia and Ben Guill
Laurie Lashier
Shazma & Arshad Matin
Origin Bank
Becky & Jack Browder
Harriet Foster
Kate Dearing Fowler
Sami Grefé
Jim Gilligan
Katy & Clyde Hays
H-E-B
Lindsay Holstead
Houston Methodist
Anne Lewis & David Morris
The Lindley Family
Purpose Built Communities
Tricia & Steve Rosencranz
Susan Whitney
Katie Wiley
Lyndsey Zorich
Sehba Ali
Cory L. Arcak
Rory Bellow
Oni Blair & Chris Hensman
Martha Britton
Allison Brooks
Harriet Foster
Kate Dearing Fowler
Katy & Clyde Hays
Ann & Johnny Johnson
Tracy McAdoo
Anne & Joe Romano
Tricia & Steve Rosencranz
Lisa Roy
Baylee Safady
Anne Whitlock
Katie Wiley
This year, MCC is thrilled to introduce Fabric Forge, our latest step forward in building stronger, more connected neighborhoods in Gulfton and Sharpstown. Fabric Forge connects neighborhood talent to Houston’s growing innovation economy, turning sewing and production skills into good jobs, local businesses, and pathways to prosperity for Houston families.
MCC builds pathways for residents to thrive — and Fabric Forge brings that mission to life as Houston’s hub for textile prototyping, workforce training, and small-batch production with our white label service, HTX Sewn Goods.
By helping startups and established brands make products locally, we keep jobs, tax dollars, and opportunity right here in Houston — while reducing waste and costly logistics challenges, including tariffs. We incubate small businesses through coaching and micro-retail spaces where entrepreneurs can test their ideas, and our expanded, 9,000 sq. ft. space welcomes anyone to learn, create, and grow — whether you’re mastering your home sewing machine or training for a new design career. From sewing and crochet to knitting and beyond, we’re teaching textile arts to people of all ages across Greater Houston.
Join us to strengthen communities, build a sustainable future, and shape Houston’s story — from Gulfton to global.
We’re honored to have two incredible champions of Houston’s creative and entrepreneurial spirit leading this year’s luncheon. Get to know our incredible co-chairs, Jen Kahn and Merin Guthrie below.
Jen Kahn is the creative force behind Scenery Bags, a brand that gives new life to retired theatrical materials—turning stage backdrops and costumes into one-of-a-kind bags that keep stories alive. Her passion for sustainability and craftsmanship reflects the heart of Fabric Forge’s mission.
Explore her work at scenerybags.com.
Merin is the visionary behind Kit, a Houston-based dressmaker that makes clothes fit real women—proving that ethical production and smart design go hand in hand. She brings invaluable insight into what’s possible for local makers and small-batch manufacturing.
Discover more at kitmade.com.
11:00 AM–12:00 PM | Guest Arrival & Fabric Forge Pop-Up Market
Join us early to mix, mingle, and explore our vibrant pop-up market featuring handcrafted goods from local makers. Registration opens at 11:00 — explore unique, locally-made holiday gifts for yourself and your loved ones!
12:00 PM | Welcome & Introductions
12:10 PM | Blessing of the Meal
12:15 | Lunch Begins
12:30–12:55 PM | Made Here. Made Strong. Panel Discussion & Testimonials
12:55 PM | Closing Remarks
A Purpose Built Community.
Changing Neighborhoods.
Changing Lives.
Mailing Address:
6700 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, TX 77074
Main Office:
6856 Bellaire Blvd., Bldg. 5, The Garden, Houston, TX 77074
HTX Sewn Goods at Fabric Forge Office:
6440 Hillcroft, Houston, TX 77081
