By LAURIE COKER
Special to the NEWS
David Leija, a Resaca City native and CEO of TKO (Tolerance Kindness Overcomes), a San Benito-based organization dedicated to combating bullying and promoting self-esteem among children, continues to spearhead impactful initiatives within the community.
Leija’s efforts include the upcoming South Texas Author Con and the TKO Blessings Board partnership with local business Ice Monkeys, an ice cream parlor located in San Benito.
The South Texas Author Con, scheduled for April 20 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the McAllen Creative Incubator, 601 N. Main St., McAllen, represents a significant milestone for local authors, including Leija and fellow author David Ceron, who’s helping Leija organize the groundbreaking Valley event. According to Leija, this event will showcase the talent and creativity of writers from the region and fosters the Valley’s vibrant literary community.
In addition to promoting literacy, Leija has been actively involved in community outreach through initiatives like the TKO Blessings Board. In a joint effort with Ice Monkeys, Leija launched a pay-it-forward program to support community members in need. The Blessings Board encourages individuals to contribute items for those less fortunate, fostering a spirit of generosity and compassion.
A “Blessings Board” is a communal space where people can leave items for others in need and who may take those items freely. The venture promotes community support and solidarity, said Leija, adding that the program is a tangible representation of the community’s willingness to help one another and provides essential resources to those facing challenges.
Leija’s vision extends beyond San Benito, aiming to involve other businesses and communities within the Rio Grande Valley. He envisions the Blessings Board as a Valley-wide initiative, uniting residents in acts of kindness and philanthropy.
Furthermore, Leija shared plans to transition TKO into a nonprofit organization in the future, underscoring his commitment to sustainable community impact. The organization’s mission, rooted in promoting tolerance, diversity, and racial equality, remains at the forefront of its endeavors.
Leija and Ceron conceived the South Texas Author Con to celebrate the literary talent in the Rio Grande Valley. The event will focus on highlighting local writers and poets and offers attendees the opportunity to engage with authors, attend panel discussions and workshops, and receive a free book of their choice. Leija emphasizes the transformative power of literature, believing that the right book can positively impact lives.
As TKO expands its outreach efforts, Leija remains steadfast in his dedication to creating a safer, more inclusive community for all, he said. Through collaborative partnerships and innovative initiatives, TKO is making a tangible difference in the lives of children and families across the Rio Grande Valley.
Leija reflects on the importance of literature, stating, “I firmly believe that the right book in the hands of the right child can change a life forever and for the better.” This belief underscores TKO’s commitment to promoting literacy and empowering young readers.
For more information about TKO and its initiatives, visit its website at www.tkomovement.com or contact, (956) 752-8568.
1 comments
San Benitans LOVE to see and hear stories like this. As a lifelong resident here, it’s ♥ warming to see others share the love and joy and give back to their community thru organizations like his. You’ve done WELL! I am PROUD to stand alongside you. I hope others join in and show the rest of the RGV how to pay it forward.