Robert's life

Robert Cooks has made CityWalk@Akard his home for the past two years and has seen, first hand, the positive effects of building genuine community. A former drug addict, Robert turned his life around after spending several years in and out of prison. He credits CitySquare for helping him find his way to becoming a better, more productive and fulfilled person.

CityWalk@Akard is a diverse, economically mixed 200-unit apartment complex located at 511 N. Akard. The building is part of CitySquare's partnership and ongoing efforts with the Central Dallas Community Development Corporation (CDCDC) to provide affordable housing options for low-income families, the homeless and those at risk of homelessness.

Continual neighbor support services for CityWalk residents are offered by our Community Life department, which Robert takes full advantage of. He participates in financial education classes and has worked with a social worker to identify his strengths and weaknesses. Through in-depth evaluations and discussions, Robert has set short and long term goals and has created an action plan to help him become more self-sufficient. "I've built up confidence in myself and I'm motivated to achieve my goals," says Robert. 

Robert suffers from cerebral palsy, a group of disorders involving the brain and nervous system affecting body movement, balance and posture. In spite of this disorder, he tries to remain positive and upbeat. Twice a week he visits with a physical therapist who has helped him realize and understand the importance of keeping his body strong. The Community Life team and neighbors at CityWalk say he always has a kind word to say and his smile and positive attitude are contagious.

Robert stays active and volunteers regularly throughout the community. He attends Central Dallas Church where he is a deacon, sings in the choir, serves on several committees and attends Bible studies and a recovery group. 

Without the stable housing at CityWalk and the life services offered through Community Life, Robert admits that he doesn't know where he'd be right now.  

Please help CitySquare continue to house and support our neighbors in need. Your gifts enable us to equip Robert and others like him with the tools and resources needed to move forward and start a new chapter in their lives.