Made Here. Made Strong.

The 9th Annual Connect + Amplify Luncheon

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.

Thank You to Our Underwriters & Host Committee Members

Entrepreneur Advocates

Ann & Johnny Johnson

Gene Graham

Sultana & Moez Mangalji/Westmont Hospitality Group

 

Local Business Backers

Cynthia and Ben Guill

Laurie Lashier

Origin Bank

 

Startup Supporters

Harriet Foster

Kate Dearing Fowler

Katy & Clyde Hays/Anne Lewis & David Morris

Purpose Built Communities

Rebecca & Jack Browder

Tricia & Steve Rosencranz

 

Host Committee

Allison Brooks

Amynah and Karim Khimani

Anne & Joe Romano

Ann & Johnny Johnson

Anne Lewis & David Morris

Anne Whitlock

Baylee Safady

Beth Merfish

Brinshore Development, LLC

Cynthia and Ben Guill

Elizabeth Rotan

Gene Graham

Harriet Foster

Jim Gilligan

Kate Dearing Fowler

Katie Wiley

Katy & Clyde Hays

Laurie Lashier

Lisa Roy

Lyndsey Zorich

Martha Britton

Origin Bank

Purpose Built Communities

Rebecca & Jack Browder

Rory Bellow

Sehba Ali

Sultana & Moez Mangalji/Westmont Hospitality Group

Susan Whitney & Lindsay Holstead

The Ismaili Council

Tracy McAdoo

Tricia & Steve Rosencranz

INTRODUCING FABRIC FORGE

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.

Meet Our Luncheon Co-Chairs

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, Founder & CEO
Scenery Bags

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 Guthrie, Founder & CEO
Kit

Merin is the visionary behind Kita 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. 

Run of Show

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

  • Dr. Alyssa Trometter, President & CEO, My Connect Community
  • Lauren Caldarera, Vice President of Programs & Strategy, My Connect Community
  • Jen Kahn, Owner, Scenery Bags 
  • Merin Guthrie, Owner, Kit

12:10 PM | Blessing of the Meal

  •  Shariq Ghani, Executive Director, Minaret Foundation

12:15 | Lunch Begins

12:30–12:55 PM | Made Here. Made Strong. Panel Discussion & Testimonials

12:55 PM | Closing Remarks 

  • Sam Dike; Incoming Board President, My Connect Community & Senior Manager of Real Estate and Asset Management, Rice Management District