It’s one of the most influential nonprofit groups in our community. Once imagined by Mayor Elinor Hughes in 1976, Serve Denton was established as a means of connecting local safety net organizations to simplify the process of gaining access to essential services. In 2012, Mayor Hughes’ dream was brought to fruition by a dedicated board and unwavering community champions affiliated with Denton Bible Church. We interviewed Pat Smith, who has been at the helm of Serve Denton, along with his co-founder Priscilla Sanders.
Q: Serve Denton has created a long-lasting footprint. Where did it all begin?
Serve Denton opened its doors with a bold and compassionate vision to make it easier for people in need to find help without the exhausting maze of multiple agencies and locations. Priscilla Sanders and I set out to tackle a growing challenge in Denton County: families struggling to access coordinated support during times of crisis. Serve Denton’s mission is as clear as it is impactful. We partner with nonprofits and communities to improve how they serve people by bringing numerous organizations together under one roof.
Q: Serve Denton describes itself as a “one-stop shop.” How does that philosophy shape your work?
Our philosophy shapes everything we do. It’s about creating a welcoming space where individuals and families can access essential support like food, housing, healthcare, and counseling without the stress of navigating multiple locations. This approach prioritizes dignity and efficiency, ensuring that every person receives comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs.
Q: What are the biggest challenges facing local nonprofits today?
Nonprofits in Denton County face steep challenges, from rising operational costs and limited access to affordable office space to the growing need for collaboration on complex community issues. Many organizations also struggle with visibility and resource-sharing, often leading to duplicated efforts and service gaps. Serve Denton tackles these obstacles head-on by offering affordable office space, shared amenities, and a collaborative environment where nonprofits can work side by side.
Q: What resources and services can community members access through your organization?
When individuals or families visit Serve Denton, they gain access to a wide range of essential resources through our network of nonprofit partners. These include food assistance and housing support for those experiencing homelessness or facing eviction. Families can also connect with mental health counseling, medical care, and workforce development programs that provide job training and employment opportunities. Additionally, we offer financial coaching, educational resources, and referrals to specialized services—all in one convenient location.
Q: Can you share a moment that illustrates the impact Serve Denton has in the community?
One story that truly illustrates our impact involves a single mother who came to us after losing her job and facing eviction. Through our network of nonprofit partners, she accessed emergency housing assistance, food support, and counseling. With these resources, she stabilized her living situation and enrolled in a workforce development program offered by one of our partners. Today, she has a steady job and a safe home for her children. Moments like these remind us why our collaborative model matters. When organizations work together, lives are transformed.
Q: What are your hopes and goals for the new year?
Serve Denton is committed to increasing its impact and creating more opportunities for collaboration in the year ahead. Our primary goal is to strengthen our network of nonprofit partners under one umbrella. We’re excited to announce plans for facility improvements that will allow us to host more partners and expand the range of services we offer from housing support and mental health care to workforce development programs. In 2026, we’ll also launch new community engagement initiatives, offering additional volunteer opportunities and building stronger connections with local businesses and civic organizations. These efforts reflect our unwavering dedication to making Denton a community where everyone has the support they need to thrive
Spring Events with Serve Denton
On April 18, Serve Denton will host its Annual Celebration at the Monroe-Pearson Event Center. It will be a Kentucky Derby-inspired evening. This event will also commemorate a significant milestone with Serve Denton successfully completing New Market Tax Credit financing. This is an achievement that covered nearly 25% of their project costs through a forgivable loan. Smith reports the initiative will inject $3.1 million back into the Denton economy.
On June 27, Serve Denton will host its first annual Lake Lewisville Dragon Boat Festival at Copperas Branch Park in Highland Village. Dragon boat racing is an exciting water sport where teams paddle in sync aboard long, dragon-themed boats.
Visit the website www.servedenton.org to learn more.