Opportunity Rising Foundation, the nonprofit organization established by DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas, awarded $141,980 in scholarships to 70 scholars as part of its 2025 scholarship cohort. This investment supports youth and adults served in DHA programs who are pursuing college degrees, workforce certifications, and other postsecondary pathways that promote self-sufficiency and reduce generational poverty.

“What we know to be true is that education builds intelligence and morale. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said this best,” said Almas Muscatwalla, community leader and DHA board commissioner. “Opportunity Rising works hand in hand with DHA to lift entire households, thus building stronger, more resilient communities.”

Opportunity Rising scholarships catalyze youth to overcome adversity by achieving their educational goals and empower adults in returning to school to complete degrees or earn credentials to advance economic mobility for their families. This year’s cohort includes a father and daughter who each received scholarships, reflecting the Foundation’s mission to break the cycle of poverty through multigenerational impact.

“It means so much to go back to school and show my kids, there's no such thing as 'too old.' No matter how old you are, you can still achieve your goals,” said Timothy Maxey Sr. “If there’s an opportunity, always go for it despite your fears. You might not get turned down. And I did not; that’s been my journey, one that I’m really thankful for.”

For over 30 years, Opportunity Rising has awarded more than $1.6 million in scholarships to DHA-supported scholars. By prioritizing educational attainment and workforce readiness, the Foundation equips DHA clients with the tools needed to achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency.

“Our goal is to help scholars access the educational and social opportunities that allow them to gain upward mobility,” said Dr. Priscylla Bento, Director of Resident Services. “This investment pours into our scholars mentally, financially, and socially. That then leads to transformative results in our communities. When one is helped, thousands benefit.”

There are more than 55,700 people receiving affordable housing assistance through DHA’s programs. Fifty-two percent of the people served are children under the age of 18. DHA’s goal is for all families in its programs to move toward self-sufficiency, enabling them to lead independent lives. Opportunity Rising works toward this by providing scholarships and internships funded by employees’ personal contributions, grants, and corporate donors.

To learn more about the Opportunity Rising Foundation, please visit: https://opportunityrisingfoundation.org/get-involved/.

About DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas (formerly the Dallas Housing Authority)

DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas, provides quality, affordable housing to low-income families and individuals through the effective and efficient administration of housing assistance programs. The agency aims to create opportunities for program participants to achieve self-sufficiency and economic independence. DHA provides housing opportunities to ~55,700 people through public housing developments and Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) programs. DHA’s mission is to provide affordable, quality housing and access to supportive resources across North Texas. The agency is governed by its Board of Commissioners and administers housing programs funded and regulated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. DHA is an independent, local government entity that is separate from the Dallas City Housing/Community Services department, which is governed by the City of Dallas. For more information about DHA, please visit www.dhantx.com.

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“Opportunity Rising works hand in hand with DHA to lift entire households, thus building stronger, more resilient communities.”