Avis Brooks,
CEO/Founder - Starting All Over Again Outreach Corporation and Progressive Senior Services

Avis Yvonne Brooks was born June 9th, 1956 in Detroit, Michigan to Ms. Odessa Gray and she grew up in Jefferson, Texas. Mrs. Brooks is the mother of three sons, Tony, Donald, and Ricky, and the wife of Mr. Reginald Smith; additionally she is a role model to the many women, men, and children who enter through the doors of Starting All Over Again Outreach Corp. (SAOAO) looking to improve their lives. SAOAO opened its doors March 15th, 2010 with a mission; "Leave no legitimate request for assistance unanswered."

As CEO/Founder of two companies, Starting All Over Again Outreach Corporation and Progressive Senior Services, Mrs. Brooks consistently leads by example in giving back to the community offering free services to members of society who have been left behind. This holiday season through the efforts of Mrs. Brooks and her dedicated staff, SAOAO was able to hold its First Annual "Celebration of Thanks" Thanksgiving dinner on November 18th 2010 at the Third Ward Multi-Service Center, where she was able to serve over 350 sumptuous meals to seniors, men, women, and children. On December 21st, 2010 Mrs. Brooks' giving spirit continued. SAOAO was fortunate enough to give toys to 120 children for the Christmas holiday, in the "Spirit of Joyful Giving."

Mrs. Brooks is a wife, mother, sister, businesswoman, who believes in the humanity of people. She believes that when people are given a second chance and proper guidance, those people will rise to the occasion and become independent, productive, and positive members of society. Her goal for 2011 is to touch many more lives in the Houston community and raise awareness of the many programs in the community such as hers that offer "second chances." She brings her valuable leadership qualities to the corporate table and in the streets as she ventures out into the community to help those in need. Mrs. Brooks has been recognized for her achievements by receiving Proclamations from Senator Rodney Ellis and Houston Mayor Annise Parker which makes November 18th, 2010 Starting All Over Again Outreach day in commemoration of our first "Celebration of Thanks" as well as a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Congressman Al Green. She has appeared on "Great Day Houston" and will soon be featured on KETH's "Joy In Our Town" and HCCTV's "Let's talk About It."