Supporting Young Talent and Real-World Readiness

Texas Trust Fuels Expansion of Youth Spotlight Program

The Levitt Pavilion’s free concert series in Arlington is expanding its Levitt Youth Spotlight program for the 2026 season, with Texas Trust Credit Union joining as presenting sponsor. The program, which is unique across the national Levitt network, gives young performers the chance to gain real-world experience by taking part in the full arc of a live music engagement, from booking and contract execution to sound checks and performing on a professional stage.

This year, the program is growing beyond Friday nights to include Saturday concerts as well, with participation expected to double. Youth Spotlight artists, ages 6-22, are recommended by local music studios and school music teachers and selected through a submission process. In addition to performing ahead of the evening’s opening act, participants receive a stipend and a professionally livestreamed recording they can use to promote future opportunities.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone expansion of the Youth Spotlight program with the support of Texas Trust, an organization that consistently demonstrates its commitment to community,” said Letatia Teykl, executive director of Levitt Pavilion Arlington. Texas Trust President/CEO Jim Minge added, “The Levitt Youth Spotlight is a one-of-a-kind platform that gives young performers more than just a stage — it gives them the professional experience and confidence to chase their dreams.”

DuGood Brings Reality Fair to Southeast Texas Students

DuGood Credit Union recently hosted a Reality Fair at Lamar Institute of Technology, giving students a hands-on look at life after graduation through realistic jobs, budgets, and financial responsibilities. The event was designed to help students build confidence and practice decision-making in a low-pressure environment before facing those choices in real life.

At the fair, students were assigned a career, salary, and monthly budget, then worked with a partner to visit stations representing common expenses such as housing, transportation, food, and entertainment. Financial counselors were available throughout the event to answer questions and help students think through their choices.

“Our goal is to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world financial responsibility,” said DuGood President/CEO Clint Wilson. “Many young adults haven’t had the opportunity to manage a full monthly budget before entering the workforce. The Reality Fair gives them a safe space to build confidence and develop those critical life skills.”

Wilson said the event also reflects DuGood’s broader commitment to financial education and community engagement across Southeast Texas. He credited local partners for helping make the event possible, adding, “Like many good things in life, it takes a village to make a Reality Fair happen. We’re truly thankful for the local businesses that shared our vision and wanted to invest in our students.”