Class Projects & Contributions

Each Leadership Mission cohort is tasked with completing a class project or contribution—a cornerstone of the program that challenges participants to work collaboratively, think creatively, and give back to the City of Mission in a meaningful way.

These projects are designed to leave a lasting impact, addressing a community need, enhancing public spaces, or supporting local initiatives. From concept to completion, each class works together to plan, fund, and execute a project that reflects their shared commitment to civic leadership and community service.

Class projects are more than milestones—they’re Mission’s legacy in action.

Class 41 Contribution: Boys & Girls Club of Mission Elf-A-Member Program

Leadership Mission Class 41, alongside the Leadership Mission Board of Directors, proudly supported the Elf-A-Member Program, helping bring joy and holiday magic to 89 children served by the Boys & Girls Club of Mission. 

This contribution reflects a shared commitment to uplifting local youth and supporting a safe, supportive space where children grow through mentorship, learning, and leadership. Through the spirit of giving, Class 41 helped ensure more children felt seen, valued, and celebrated during the holiday season—strengthening our community one child at a time.

Class 41 Project: Communication Board at Bannworth Park

Leadership Mission Class 41 proudly unveiled a bilingual communication board at Bannworth Park—designed to support non-verbal children and individuals with communication challenges.

The board features over 72 words and symbols, along with the full alphabet, in both English and Spanish. It allows users to point to images to express their needs, emotions, or ideas—encouraging inclusive play and connection. The project also includes a QR code linking to a mobile communication app, along with tips for peers and adults on how to support individuals using the board.

This project is a testament to the class’s commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and lasting community impact—ensuring that all children have the tools to communicate, connect, and thrive.

Class 40 & Class 41 Contribution: Mission Animal Shelter

Leadership Mission Class 40 and Class 41 came together to support the Mission Animal Shelter by presenting a donation to help meet ongoing needs such as food, supplies, and daily animal care. 

Since the City of Mission assumed operations in early 2025, the shelter has made meaningful progress under the leadership of Health Director Steven Kotsatos and his team, with improved systems, stronger care standards, and a renewed focus on animal well-being. This shared effort highlights the power of partnership and teamwork, helping ensure Mission’s animals continue to receive compassionate, reliable care as the shelter moves forward.

Class 40 Project: Beautification of the Mission Animal Shelter

Leadership Mission Class 40 proudly partnered with the City of Mission Animal Shelter to help enhance a space rooted in care, compassion, and second chances. 

Through a collaborative effort with Leadership Mission, the City of Mission Animal Shelter, Keep Mission Beautiful, City of Mission Parks & Recreation, Paws Fur Help, and—most importantly—the Mission Economic Development Corporation, the project focused on creating a more welcoming, uplifting environment for both animals and visitors. 

Leadership Mission Class 40 funded the creation of a vibrant mural by local artist Oneida Treviño, adding color, warmth, and a sense of hope to the shelter while helping promote pet adoption and community pride. The completed beautification project was proudly unveiled during the inaugural Paws & Pumpkins event in October 2025, celebrating collaboration, creativity, and a shared commitment to making Mission a more compassionate place for all.

Class 38 Project: Love Locks at Mission Market Square

Leadership Mission Class 38 introduced a heartfelt and interactive public art project to the heart of downtown—Love Locks at Mission Market Square.

Inspired by similar landmarks around the world, the installation invites couples, friends, and families to leave their mark by attaching a padlock engraved with their names or a special message to a custom-designed sign. The project symbolizes lasting bonds, community pride, and shared memories, creating a meaningful space for residents and visitors alike.

Located at Mission Market Square, this vibrant display adds a unique touch to the area—encouraging connection, tourism, and moments worth locking in forever.

Class 37 Contribution: American Legion District 15

In December 2025, Leadership Mission Class 37 and the Leadership Mission Board joined community partners in support of the Veterans Wreath Laying Ceremony led by American Legion District 15.

 Organizations from across the Rio Grande Valley came together to ensure that every Veteran laid to rest at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, Texas was honored with a holiday wreath, recognizing their service and sacrifice. 

The ceremony, held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, served as a meaningful reminder of the community’s shared commitment to honoring and remembering our nation’s heroes.

Class 22 Project: Historic Clock

Leadership Mission Class 22 proudly commissioned and donated a historic clock to the Mission Historical Museum as their class project, creating a lasting contribution to Mission’s history. 

After the clock was damaged during a severe storm and remained non-operational for years, it was thoughtfully restored in 2025 thanks to the generosity and dedication of Mission resident Ned Sheats, who worked with the City of Mission to relocate it to its new home outside Mission City Hall. 

Today, the clock is ticking once again—standing as a symbol of community pride, collaboration, and Leadership Mission’s enduring impact.