Wichita County, Texas, is a treasure trove of vibrant experiences and warm community spirit. This dynamic region draws people in with its captivating blend of history, culture, and modern flair. With cities like Wichita Falls at its
heart, you'll find a perfect blend of small-town charm and urban appeal.
Nature lovers will flourish here, thanks to the beautiful scenery provided by locations like Lake Wichita Park and Lucy Park, where residents enjoy hiking, cycling, and tranquil picnics. For those seeking dynamic arts and culture, the Kemp Center for the Arts and the Wichita Theatre & Opera House showcase the diverse talent and creativity rooted deeply in the
Discover the Vibrant Spirit of Wichita
Hello Wichita County, Texas • Fall Issue |5
community.
Education thrives in Wichita County with numerous educational institutions and high-ranking schools, providing a solid foundation for future generations. Meanwhile, the county’s commitment to growth is evident in its bustling local economy, powered by industries ranging from agriculture to aerospace. Friendly neighbors foster a sense of belonging, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
Wichita
County stands as a beacon of welcoming warmth and vibrant possibilities, making it an inviting place for individuals and families to put down roots and embrace all the county has to offer.
Discover the Vibrant Spirit of Wichita
Discover the Vibrant Spirit of Wichita County, Texas
Wichita County, Texas, is a treasure trove of vibrant experiences and warm community spirit. This dynamic region draws people in with its captivating blend of history, culture, and modern flair. With cities like Wichita Falls at its heart, you'll find a perfect blend of small-town charm and urban appeal.
Nature lovers will flourish here, thanks to the beautiful scenery provided by locations like Lake Wichita Park and Lucy Park, where residents enjoy hiking, cycling, and tranquil picnics. For those seeking dynamic arts and culture, the Kemp Center for the Arts and the Wichita Theatre & Opera House showcase the diverse talent and creativity rooted deeply in the community.
Education thrives in Wichita County with numerous educational institutions and high-ranking schools, providing a solid foundation for future generations. Meanwhile, the county’s commitment to growth is evident in its bustling local economy, powered by industries ranging from agriculture to aerospace. Friendly neighbors foster a sense of belonging, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
Wichita County stands as a beacon of welcoming warmth and vibrant possibilities, making it an inviting place for individuals and families to put down roots and embrace all the county has to offer.
Guiding the Next Generation: A Parent’s Role in Support & Understanding
Raising a child is both rewarding and complex, but when a child has a disability or mental health condition, the path can feel even more uncertain. Parents often find themselves balancing their instincts to protect with the need to prepare their children for an independent future. The world young people face
today is not the same as the one their parents grew up in, and that difference makes the role of a supportive parent more important than ever.
The first step in guiding a child with unique needs is listening. Children and teens want to be heard, and for those with disabilities or mental health
6 | HelloWichita County, Texas • Fall Issue
Guiding the Next Generation: A Parent’s Role in Support & Understanding
Raising a child is both rewarding and complex, but when a child has a disability or mental health condition, the path can feel even more uncertain. Parents often find themselves balancing their instincts to protect with the need to prepare their children for an independent future. The world young people face today is not the same as the one their parents grew up in, and that difference makes the role of a supportive parent more important than ever.
The first step in guiding a child with unique needs is listening. Children and teens want to be heard, and for those with disabilities or mental health conditions, that need is even stronger. Their experiences may not match what their parents once knew, and their challenges can be shaped by environments that are less visible. By listening carefully and without judgment, parents show respect for their child’s perspective. That respect builds trust, which becomes the foundation for growth and resilience.
Listening also allows parents to pick up on subtle changes in mood, behavior, or social patterns. For children who struggle with anxiety or depression, small signals can carry big meaning. A sudden drop in school performance, withdrawal from friends, or frustration with daily routines may point to needs that are not being met. Parents who notice these patterns can respond with patience rather than punishment, helping the child feel supported instead of misunderstood.
Learning is just as critical. Parents who take time to educate themselves about a child’s condition or disability are better prepared to support their needs. A diagnosis may explain part of the picture, but it does not tell the whole story. Each child has strengths, preferences, and goals that go beyond labels. Understanding how conditions affect learning, communication, or social interaction helps parents advocate effectively, whether at school, in medical settings, or in the community.
That learning often includes staying up to date with evolving resources. New therapies, teaching approaches, and assistive technologies appear every year, and these tools can make a significant difference. Parents who remain curious and open to new information show their children that growth is always possible. At the same time, it is important to balance hope with realistic expectations. Recognizing both challenges and opportunities helps families set goals that feel attainable rather than overwhelming.
Federal and state programs, supports, and funding for people with disabilities are well-intended but also complicated. Parents can expect to find experts in different segments of disability support, but it is difficult to find professionals who understand how everything fits together. The best approach is to research, ask questions, and seek answers from multiple sources. Many parents discover that public policy information only tells part of the story, and that little-known provisions may provide unexpected help for those who know to look for them. It can be disappointing that navigating resources is so difficult, but knowing in advance that the process will be challenging helps families prepare and get the most out of what is available.
Advocacy plays a central role in a parent’s journey. Schools, workplaces, and public services are required to provide accommodations, but parents often must speak up to ensure those rights are respected. Advocacy is not about pushing for special treatment. It is about making sure a child has equal access to opportunities. When parents advocate firmly and respectfully, they model for their children how to speak up for themselves in the future.
This role cannot be overstated. Although most organizations understand their obligation to provide reasonable accommodations, few have real experience putting those accommodations into practice. Every situation is unique, and parents can help by explaining the barriers that exist because of a disability, then working as partners in developing solutions. Advocacy works best when it invites collaboration rather than confrontation.
For example, an amputee who is without hands may apply for a job as a retail cashier. A parent can advocate by helping an employer understand that tasks like handling products or operating a register may be difficult for their child. By sharing information about wearable technology that allows scanning or eye-tracking devices to input data, the parent helps the employer see possibilities for success rather than obstacles. Ideally, children will learn to advocate for themselves as they grow older, but in their early years, parents should not hesitate to take the lead.
Parents bridge the gap between generations by listening, learning, and advocating for their children with consistency and compassion.
The generational gap is worth noting. Many parents grew up in a time when mental health struggles were less openly discussed or when disabilities were misunderstood and stigmatized. Today’s world has more awareness, but it also places new pressures on children. Social media, digital communication, and academic competition can magnify stress, especially for children with additional needs. Parents who recognize this shift can help by balancing expectations, setting realistic goals, and encouraging self-care.
Supporting independence is another important aspect of parenting a child with a disability or mental health condition. While it is natural to want to protect them, independence grows through opportunity and experience. Encouraging decision-making, teaching problem-solving, and allowing safe risks help children gain confidence. Even small steps, such as managing personal routines or speaking up in class, build skills for adulthood.
Parents may also face pressure from relatives, peers, or cultural expectations that do not fully understand their child’s needs. Explaining a disability or condition can be exhausting, but parents who set boundaries and communicate clearly can protect their child from harmful misunderstandings. Creating an environment of acceptance at home makes it easier for children to face challenges in the wider world.
The journey can also bring challenges for parents themselves. Stress, fatigue, and worry often weigh heavily. Seeking support from other families, professionals, or community organizations can make the role more sustainable. Parents should not feel guilty for needing help; caring for themselves makes them better able to care for their children. In some cases, family counseling or peer support groups provide valuable spaces to share experiences and learn new strategies.
The ultimate goal for any parent is to prepare their child for a fulfilling and meaningful life. For children with disabilities or mental health conditions, that means having tools to navigate a world that may not always be understanding. Parents can provide those tools by modeling empathy, teaching resilience, and building support systems that last beyond childhood. With patience and knowledge, parents give their children the best chance to thrive.
Guiding the next generation is not about having all the answers. It is about walking alongside a child, adjusting to their needs, and believing in their potential. Parents who embrace that role create an environment where children feel seen, supported, and understood.
David Toogood
builds trust, which becomes the foundation for growth and resilience.
Listening also allows parents to pick up on subtle changes in mood, behavior, or social patterns. For children who struggle with anxiety or depression, small signals can carry big meaning. A sudden drop in school performance, withdrawal from friends, or frustration with daily routines may point to needs that are not being met. Parents who notice these patterns can respond with patience rather than punishment, helping the child feel supported instead of misunderstood.
Learning is just as critical. Parents who take time to...
conditions, that need is even stronger. Their experiences may not match what their parents once knew, and their challenges can be shaped by environments that are less visible. By listening carefully and without judgment, parents show respect for their child’s perspective. That respect
Parents bridge the gap between generations by listening, learning, and advocating for their children with consistency and compassion.
About the Author
David Toogood is the President and CEO of Work Services Corporation, a nonprofit Community Rehabilitation Program employing more than 800 people in Texas and Oklahoma. He oversees the organization’s $30 million annual operations, which provide goods and services to government and commercial customers while advancing its mission to create job opportunities for people with disabilities.
HelloWichita County, Texas • Fall Issue |7
Discover the Delightful Living in Wichita
County, Texas
Wichita County, Texas, offers an exemplary slice of Texan life with a unique blend of small-town charm and city conveniences. Residents here enjoy a quality of life defined by vibrant community spirit, stunning natural landscapes, and a thriving local economy. Anchored by the welcoming city of Wichita Falls, the county provides the perfect
backdrop for both relaxation and active living.
Families and individuals alike will find their joys in Wichita County's bountiful parks, diverse cultural events, and community-focused lifestyle. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the beauty of Lake Wichita, an ideal spot for fishing, kayaking, or simply soaking up the serene vistas. The county is also home to extensive hiking and biking trails that meander
8 | HelloWichita County, Texas • Fall Issue
Hello Wichita County, Texas • Fall Issue |9
Discover the Delightful Living in Wichita
through picturesque settings, offering a refreshing escape into nature’s embrace.
Culturally, Wichita County offers a rich tapestry of local arts, music festivals, and historic landmarks. Residents enjoy the warmth of a caring community where friendly neighbors and engaging activities are the norm. The local economy thrives with diverse employment sectors, ensuring stability and opportunities for growth.
Living in Wichita County means a vibrant lifestyle filled with endless possibilities, all set against the backdrop of naturally stunning Texas heartland. Whether you are drawn by the dynamic arts...
Discover the Delightful Living in Wichita County, Texas
Wichita County, Texas, offers an exemplary slice of Texan life with a unique blend of small-town charm and city conveniences. Residents here enjoy a quality of life defined by vibrant community spirit, stunning natural landscapes, and a thriving local economy. Anchored by the welcoming city of Wichita Falls, the county provides the perfect backdrop for both relaxation and active living.
Families and individuals alike will find their joys in Wichita County's bountiful parks, diverse cultural events, and community-focused lifestyle. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the beauty of Lake Wichita, an ideal spot for fishing, kayaking, or simply soaking up the serene vistas. The county is also home to extensive hiking and biking trails that meander through picturesque settings, offering a refreshing escape into nature’s embrace.
Culturally, Wichita County offers a rich tapestry of local arts, music festivals, and historic landmarks. Residents enjoy the warmth of a caring community where friendly neighbors and engaging activities are the norm. The local economy thrives with diverse employment sectors, ensuring stability and opportunities for growth.
Living in Wichita County means a vibrant lifestyle filled with endless possibilities, all set against the backdrop of naturally stunning Texas heartland. Whether you are drawn by the dynamic arts scene, the thriving job market, or the tranquil outdoor spaces, Wichita County warmly invites you to experience its excellent quality of life.
Wichita County, Texas
A Beacon of Healthcare and Education Excellence
Wichita County, Texas stands out as a progressive community committed to both healthcare and education, crafting a bright future for its residents. With its innovative initiatives and collaborative spirit, the county ensures that every individual has access to top-tier services and learning opportunities.
Healthcare in Wichita County is
marked by its exceptional quality and accessibility. Numerous healthcare facilities offer a wide range of services, from cutting-edge medical treatments to preventive care, all designed to keep the community healthy and thriving. Local healthcare professionals, known for their dedication and expertise, continuously strive to enhance patient care, making the county a model of medical excellence. A standout facility,
10 | HelloWichita County, Texas • Fall Issue
Hello Wichita County, Texas • Fall Issue |11
Wichita County, Texas
United Regional Health Care System, combines advanced technology with compassionate care, ensuring that every resident feels valued and supported.
On the education front, Wichita County has also made significant strides. Schools in the area are renowned for fostering a nurturing environment where students can flourish academically and personally. Community programs and partnerships provide additional resources, ensuring that local youth receive a well-rounded education tailored to the demands of the modern world. With a focus on innovation and student success, Wichita County exemplifies how vibrant education...
Wichita County, Texas: A Beacon of Healthcare and Education Excellence
Wichita County, Texas stands out as a progressive community committed to both healthcare and education, crafting a bright future for its residents. With its innovative initiatives and collaborative spirit, the county ensures that every individual has access to top-tier services and learning opportunities.
Healthcare in Wichita County is marked by its exceptional quality and accessibility. Numerous healthcare facilities offer a wide range of services, from cutting-edge medical treatments to preventive care, all designed to keep the community healthy and thriving. Local healthcare professionals, known for their dedication and expertise, continuously strive to enhance patient care, making the county a model of medical excellence. A standout facility, United Regional Health Care System, combines advanced technology with compassionate care, ensuring that every resident feels valued and supported.
On the education front, Wichita County has also made significant strides. Schools in the area are renowned for fostering a nurturing environment where students can flourish academically and personally. Community programs and partnerships provide additional resources, ensuring that local youth receive a well-rounded education tailored to the demands of the modern world. With a focus on innovation and student success, Wichita County exemplifies how vibrant education systems can invigorate a community.
In Wichita County, healthcare and education converge to create an environment that not only embraces wellbeing but also champions continuous learning and development, showcasing a future as bright as the Texas sky.
Economic Development Flourishes in Wichita...
Wichita County, Texas, is experiencing a renaissance that is fueling economic vibrancy and growth. Known for its rich history and community-driven spirit, the county is swiftly becoming a beacon of innovation and enterprise. As businesses set their sights on Wichita County, the local economy flourishes with an abundance of opportunities for growth and employment.
Central to this economic upturn is the county's strategic emphasis on nurturing both established industries and emerging sectors. The region's approachable and collaborative atmosphere empowers entrepreneurs to launch new ventures and encourages existing businesses to expand their operations. As a result, Wichita County is witnessing an upward trend in job creation and entrepreneurial achievements, all contributing to a robust economic foundation.
Infrastructure advancements are at the heart of Wichita County's transformation. Enhanced transportation networks and cutting-edge technology installations have made the county more accessible, boosting its appeal to investors. These projects, coupled with the county's emphasis on sustainable practices, ensure a prosperous and resilient future well-poised for ongoing success.
Wichita County's economic development ...
Thriving Horizons
12 | HelloWichita County, Texas • Fall Issue
Thriving Horizons: Economic Development Flourishes in Wichita County, Texas
Wichita County, Texas, is experiencing a renaissance that is fueling economic vibrancy and growth. Known for its rich history and community-driven spirit, the county is swiftly becoming a beacon of innovation and enterprise. As businesses set their sights on Wichita County, the local economy flourishes with an abundance of opportunities for growth and employment.
Central to this economic upturn is the county's strategic emphasis on nurturing both established industries and emerging sectors. The region's approachable and collaborative atmosphere empowers entrepreneurs to launch new ventures and encourages existing businesses to expand their operations. As a result, Wichita County is witnessing an upward trend in job creation and entrepreneurial achievements, all contributing to a robust economic foundation.
Infrastructure advancements are at the heart of Wichita County's transformation. Enhanced transportation networks and cutting-edge technology installations have made the county more accessible, boosting its appeal to investors. These projects, coupled with the county's emphasis on sustainable practices, ensure a prosperous and resilient future well-poised for ongoing success.
Wichita County's economic development journey is rooted in a genuine dedication to transforming dreams into reality. As the community continues to innovate and excel together, the possibilities for growth are boundless, solidifying Wichita County as a model of progress and prosperity in the Lone Star State.
Hello Wichita County, Texas • Fall Issue |13
Thriving Horizons
14 | HelloWichita County, Texas • Fall Issue
Wichita County's Parks and Recreation
Wichita County, Texas, is a vibrant community where the love for the great outdoors is vividly celebrated. The county offers a refreshing blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities that appeal to both locals and visitors alike.
Each park and facility uniquely highlight the county's dedication to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
Lucy Park is a local favorite, set along the Wichita River, providing a scenic backdrop for a myriad of outdoor activities. With sprawling green spaces, it’s perfect for a relaxing picnic or an energizing jog. The park’s enchanting trails and willow trees make it an ideal spot for a peaceful walk or an invigorating bike
Exploring the Great Outdoors
Hello Wichita County, Texas • Fall Issue |15
ride.
For those interested in sports, the Wichita Falls Sports Complex is a must-visit. It hosts numerous baseball and softball tournaments, drawing sports enthusiasts from across the region. The Complex’s well-maintained fields and modern amenities ensure a top-notch experience for both players and spectators.
Wichita County's dedication to accessible recreation is also evident at the Hamilton Park Pavilion. This
exceptional venue caters to community events and gatherings, creating a hub of social activity. It features playgrounds and splash pads, offering endless fun for families, especially during the warm Texan summers.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Wichita County’s parks and recreation facilities provide endless opportunities to connect with nature and each other.
Exploring the Great Outdoors
Exploring the Great Outdoors: Wichita County's Parks and Recreation
Wichita County, Texas, is a vibrant community where the love for the great outdoors is vividly celebrated. The county offers a refreshing blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities that appeal to both locals and visitors alike. Each park and facility uniquely highlight the county's dedication to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
Lucy Park is a local favorite, set along the Wichita River, providing a scenic backdrop for a myriad of outdoor activities. With sprawling green spaces, it’s perfect for a relaxing picnic or an energizing jog. The park’s enchanting trails and willow trees make it an ideal spot for a peaceful walk or an invigorating bike ride.
For those interested in sports, the Wichita Falls Sports Complex is a must-visit. It hosts numerous baseball and softball tournaments, drawing sports enthusiasts from across the region. The Complex’s well-maintained fields and modern amenities ensure a top-notch experience for both players and spectators.
Wichita County's dedication to accessible recreation is also evident at the Hamilton Park Pavilion. This exceptional venue caters to community events and gatherings, creating a hub of social activity. It features playgrounds and splash pads, offering endless fun for families, especially during the warm Texan summers.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Wichita County’s parks and recreation facilities provide endless opportunities to connect with nature and each other.
Community Organizations in Wichita County
16 | HelloWichita County, Texas • Fall Issue
Hello Wichita County, Texas • Fall Issue |17
Unity in Action
Wichita County, Texas, thrives as a beacon of community spirit and camaraderie, with its remarkable network of organizations playing
a crucial role in enriching lives and fostering connections. These organizations work tirelessly to make a difference, turning aspirations into achievements and neighbors into friends. From spearheading educational initiatives to orchestrating vibrant cultural events, they are the heartbeat of this region.
In Wichita Falls and beyond, groups such as the Wichita County Literacy Council provide crucial resources, empowering residents with essential skills to succeed in today’s world. Meanwhile, the local branches of the United Way amplify collective impact, addressing health, education, and financial stability with innovative solutions. Their dedication to uplifting others underlines the generosity and determination found throughout the county.
Cultural organizations like the Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra and the Kemp Center for the Arts nurture a thriving arts scene, showcasing talents and uniting the community through the universal language of creativity. Their efforts ensure that Wichita County is not just a place to live but a community where the arts and inspiration flourish.
With each organization’s shared vision and enduring efforts, Wichita County stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, compassion, and community spirit that truly transforms lives.
Community Organizations in Wichita County
Community Organizations in Wichita County: Unity in Action
Wichita County, Texas, thrives as a beacon of community spirit and camaraderie, with its remarkable network of organizations playing a crucial role in enriching lives and fostering connections. These organizations work tirelessly to make a difference, turning aspirations into achievements and neighbors into friends. From spearheading educational initiatives to orchestrating vibrant cultural events, they are the heartbeat of this region.
In Wichita Falls and beyond, groups such as the Wichita County Literacy Council provide crucial resources, empowering residents with essential skills to succeed in today’s world. Meanwhile, the local branches of the United Way amplify collective impact, addressing health, education, and financial stability with innovative solutions. Their dedication to uplifting others underlines the generosity and determination found throughout the county.
Cultural organizations like the Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra and the Kemp Center for the Arts nurture a thriving arts scene, showcasing talents and uniting the community through the universal language of creativity. Their efforts ensure that Wichita County is not just a place to live but a community where the arts and inspiration flourish.
With each organization’s shared vision and enduring efforts, Wichita County stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, compassion, and community spirit that truly transforms lives.
Hometown Heroes celebrates the brave men and women from Wichita County who answered the call to serve. They left their homes, families, and communities to defend our freedoms. They brought with them the values of their upbringing, woven into the fabric of the communities they cherished. Across generations, these heroes stood united, embodying courage, sacrifice, and a love of country that knows no bounds. Whether on land, sea, or in
the skies, they carried the spirit of their hometowns with them, facing challenges with unyielding resolve and selflessness. We honor their service, their legacy, and the communities that raised them. Today, we remember not just their dedication but the strength and unity that bind us all as Americans. Their stories are our stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States and the bonds that make us strong.
Hometown Heroes
20 | HelloWichita County, Texas • Fall Issue
Hometown Heroes
Hometown Heroes celebrates the brave men and women from Wichita County who answered the call to serve. They left their homes, families, and communities to defend our freedoms. They brought with them the values of their upbringing, woven into the fabric of the communities they cherished. Across generations, these heroes stood united, embodying courage, sacrifice, and a love of country that knows no bounds. Whether on land, sea, or in the skies, they carried the spirit of their hometowns with them, facing challenges with unyielding resolve and selflessness. We honor their service, their legacy, and the communities that raised them. Today, we remember not just their dedication but the strength and unity that bind us all as Americans. Their stories are our stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States and the bonds that make us strong.
Proudly Partnering with the National League of Cities and the U.S. Conference of Mayors
At HelloNation, we are honored to serve as America’s Video Magazine, bringing to life the stories of over 40,000 towns and cities across the country. Our mission is to celebrate the vibrancy, culture, and opportunities in every community, creating a digital platform that informs, inspires, and connects residents, businesses, and newcomers alike.
We are deeply proud to have the support and endorsement of two of the
nation’s most respected organizations: the National League of Cities (NLC) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Through their partnership, the NLC and the U.S. Conference of Mayors affirm their confidence in HelloNation’s vision and our shared belief in the power of storytelling to highlight the unique character of each community.
Their words underscore the importance of our mission: to make every town and city visible on the national stage, highlighting what makes each one special and worth exploring. Together, with the National League of Cities and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, we are committed to ensuring that every community in America has a voice and a platform to shine. Thank you for supporting our journey as we bring local stories to life, one video at a time.
These influential entities advocate tirelessly on behalf of America’s cities, towns, and villages, representing every community and ensuring their voices are heard on a national scale.
HelloNation
26 | HelloWichita County, Texas • Fall Issue
CLICK TO READ
Hello Wichita County, Texas • Fall Issue |27
These influential entities advocate tirelessly on behalf of America’s cities, towns, and villages, representing every community and ensuring their voices are heard on a national scale.
