Community Highlights
Explore what’s making an impact across Central Texas. From promising practices in action to local events that support health and resilience, this section shines a light on the people, programs, and initiatives strengthening our communities.
On behalf of our partners at Community Action and Texas State alumnus Doug Mudd, THRC is proud to help amplify this opportunity for Central Texans to share their voices about the greatest health needs in our community.
Dear Community Partners, Board Members, Residents, and Staff,
Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas needs your help. We are conducting a brief needs assessment to determine the greatest needs in our community. The survey results will provide guidance for what services and programs to offer and where to focus our funding for the Hays, Caldwell, and Blanco County service area for the next 3 years.
Click here to take the short survey: Community Needs Survey for Residents of Hays, Caldwell, and Blanco Counties – Fill out form
Please forward this to your clients, staff members, other residents and community members.
Thank you so much for your participation and ongoing support. With your help together we can make a big difference in the lives of those we serve in our community.
Doug Mudd
Executive Director
Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas
512-392-1161 X 332
Community Highlights Blog
THRC Presents Mapping Public Health at the 2025 IIMS Community Engagement Symposium
The Translational Health Research Center (THRC) presented Mapping Public Health at the 2025 IIMS Community Engagement Symposium, hosted by UT Health San Antonio. The poster highlighted THRC’s efforts to expand GIS and spatial data training for Texas public health professionals through the free Mapping Public Health program.
Pathways to Care Health Fair: Connecting Central Texas Seniors with Wellness Resources
The Pathways to Care Health Fair for Adults 60+ brought together community partners, local providers, and residents for a day of free health screenings, resources, and wellness connections at the San Marcos Public Library.
THRC at the Community Connect Expo: Strengthening Central Texas Connection
Our team was proud to join the conversation at the Community Connect Expo, sharing THRC resources and building connections to support wellness and community strength across Central Texas.
Lunch & Learn — Visualizing Mental Health Insights
The Translational Health Research Center (THRC), in partnership with the Hays County Health Department, hosted the third session of the Quarterly Training Series, Lunch & Learn: Visualizing Mental Health Insights.
THRC Attends NAMI Central Texas Speak Up 2025 Holistic Healing Summit
Our team was proud to join the conversation at the NAMI Speak Up Symposium, connecting with attendees and sharing tools to strengthen mental health and resilience in Central Texas.
Community Highlight
Lunch & Learn Highlights
The Translational Health Research Center (THRC), in partnership with the Hays County Health Department, hosted the third session of the Quarterly Training Series, Lunch & Learn: Visualizing Mental Health Insights.
Meet Our Student Fellows
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“It’s been amazing to be part of bridging the gap between rural communities and mental health resources.”
Camilla Schram
Bastrop County Cares
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“This internship has made me grow—not just as a future professional, but as a friend and member of my community.”
Cherry Vasquez
Community Action Inc. of Central Texas
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“I want to create a space where women feel supported, empowered, and reminded to care for themselves.”
Keira Diaz
Speaking Heart to Heart
Student Fellows Highlight
The Translational Health Research Center (THRC) supported Student Fellows in working alongside and connecting with community partners across Central Texas. Fellows collaborated with organizations such as Bastrop County Cares, Speaking Heart to Heart, and Community Action Inc. of Central Texas to apply research in real-world settings and contribute to projects that strengthen local communities.
