Tony Perez is not your typical real estate broker. While he has been in the business for three decades, it is his passion for community service and engagement that sets him apart. Since moving to Fort Worth, Texas almost fifteen years ago, he has intentionally woven himself into the fabric of the city, by volunteering his time and energy to make a positive impact on his adopted hometown. His journey from a business-minded professional to a civic-minded leader is as inspiring as it is multifaceted.
Finding Community in Fort Worth
When he moved to Fort Worth in 2009, Tony was not initially looking for ways to become a local champion of civic engagement. Instead, like many newcomers, he was settling into a new city, getting married, and focusing on his career. However, he quickly recognized a unique characteristic of Fort Worth: its openness to community input and the welcoming nature of its residents.
This open environment inspired him to ask himself, "How can I serve?" This question set the stage for his immersion into volunteerism and public service.
“Fort Worth is the kind of place where you can see a need and just jump in to help. It is that sense of ownership among residents that sets this city apart."
From his roots in real estate to his growing role as a civic leader, he has never shied away from taking on responsibility or jumping into areas where he can make a difference. He serves in various capacities, including on neighborhood boards, city advisory committees, and even as a substitute teacher for local schools. His desire to build strong connections and contribute to the community stems from a belief that "when you feel like you’re making a difference, nothing else will satisfy."
Military Values, Civic Action
Tony's foundation in service began with his time in the United States Air Force, where he served six years active and nine years in reserve duty. The values instilled during his military career - discipline, commitment, and a focus on problem-solving - have permeated all aspects of his life. His transition from the military to civilian life was not a straight line. At one point, he even considered a career in law enforcement but ended up in real estate, where he has worked since 1995.
“I missed the application deadline for law enforcement in my hometown by a week, and by the time they got back to me six months later, I was already neck-deep in real estate. But working in real estate has been a natural fit. It allows me to connect with people who are trying to improve their lives, and that is at the heart of community building."
His commitment to personal growth did not stop with his military service. He holds an undergraduate degree in Business Administration and Management, as well as an MBA from the University of Dallas with a concentration in Cybersecurity. He believes that this unique combination of business acumen and technology awareness gives him a valuable perspective on modern challenges facing communities.
His approach to real estate is deeply intertwined with his passion for community development. With almost thirty years in the business, he has built a reputation based on putting people first. "I'm one of the ones that have that kind of longevity because I know I'm not in it just for the money. I focus on the people," he explains.
This ‘people first’ approach allows him to gain unique insights into what truly matters to residents.
"I learn what brings value to a community, which is what creates the desirability of a community."
This knowledge does not just benefit his real estate clients - it also informs his volunteer work and community engagement efforts.
The Unifying Power of Community Engagement
In Fort Worth, he saw an opportunity to extend his service beyond his professional career. Over time, he became deeply involved in multiple local initiatives, from neighborhood associations to city advisory boards. One of his most significant contributions has been his involvement in community engagement efforts. These initiatives focus on connecting citizens with local government, improving neighborhoods, and fostering a sense of collective ownership.
For him, the benefits of community engagement go far beyond simply giving back – it is also a learning process that is a two-way street. He emphasizes the importance of this cross-pollination of ideas:
"When we share information across different opportunities, volunteer opportunities, or departments, then I think across the board, we do a lot better."
He witnessed firsthand the impact of well-coordinated volunteerism during catastrophic events like Winter Storm Uri in February 2021. It was during this time that the Dallas/Fort Worth region experienced prolonged freezing temperatures that led to widespread power outages affecting over 4.5 million residents and hundreds of fatalities. He recalls,
“We had built networks over the years, and during the freeze, those connections became lifesaving. People were able to reach out for firewood, food, or even help paying their utility bills. It was heartening to see how, when faced with real adversity, people came together. That is the kind of spirit Fort Worth embodies.”
A Hands-On Approach to Local Government
One of his key insights is how much local governance benefits from volunteer support. He has seen this firsthand through his involvement in various programs like Code Blue, the Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT), and multiple neighborhood watch initiatives. He encourages others to get involved, not only to improve their communities but for their personal growth. He explains,
“Volunteering does not just benefit the community - it benefits you. You learn new skills, make new friends, and gain a deeper understanding of the issues facing your neighborhood. It is energizing!”
His experiences have taught him that effective community engagement is about more than just showing up; it requires a willingness to mentor others, offer solutions, and take the initiative in times of need. For example, when neighborhood associations struggled with leadership changes, he stepped in to mentor new board members and provide the knowledge necessary for them to succeed.
“It is important to have experienced people guiding the newer volunteers. We need to equip them with the tools and contacts they need to make real change.”
Advocating for a Collaborative Future
Tony is a firm believer in the power of collaboration. He understands that making a significant impact often means working with others, including government agencies, local organizations, and your neighbors. Whether it is organizing a block party to foster neighborhood connections or rallying support for public safety initiatives, his efforts consistently aim to bring people together.
He is particularly proud of the work done through organizations like the North Fort Worth Alliance, where he serves as vice president. The group collaborates with local homeowners' associations and city officials to address concerns, advocate for resources, and improve neighborhood life.
“We need to work smarter. There’s just not enough capacity to do everything. That is where partnerships come in.”
He recalls one particularly impactful collaboration that took place during Winter Storm Uri. Working alongside various local groups, he helped set up informal support networks to distribute essentials like firewood, blankets, and groceries.
“We did not need the government to step in and solve every problem. Sometimes, it is about neighbors helping neighbors."
The Role of Mentorship and Preparedness
His commitment extends beyond problem-solving; he is also dedicated to passing on what he has learned to the next generation. He is available to mentor younger volunteers, including high school students, and advocates for the inclusion of civic duties as a part of their education.
“If we can get teenagers engaged in volunteering, there’s a higher chance they’ll continue to contribute as adults.”
He also stresses the importance of preparedness, not just for emergencies but in everyday life. For him, part of being prepared means knowing where to turn for help and being ready to extend a hand when others are in need. This is evident in his support for initiatives like the CERT program and The Gabriel Project, a Catholic Charities program that assists mothers with newborns.
“Preparedness is about community resilience. When one person is ready, it makes the whole community stronger.”
Inspiration for Future Generations
His journey into community engagement started long before he arrived in Fort Worth and is proof that you do not need a grand title to make a significant impact. His approach is refreshingly practical: be inquisitive, be prepared, and always be willing to lend a hand. It is about finding fulfillment through service, a value he credits to the example set by his father.
Growing up, he watched his father dedicate countless hours to the Lions Club, a service organization focused on vision care. "He set that example for me very clearly, just by being who he was," he recalls. "Even as a little boy, I would just see how busy he was... But I would see the pleasure he got from helping others." This early exposure left an indelible mark on him, planting the seeds for a lifetime of service.
The dedication and joy his father found in helping others made an impression on him.
“He was not doing it for recognition; he was doing it because it mattered. It was a way of life, and I have always wanted to carry that forward.”
Today, he continues to embody those lessons, not only through his actions but also by inspiring others to find their unique paths in community service. Whether through organized programs or informal acts of kindness, he encourages everyone to take part. “There is no act too small. Even helping a neighbor with groceries can make a big difference,” he adds.
It is not about having all the answers but about being willing to search for them and lend a hand to those in need. For Tony Perez, the reward is simple:
“When you wake up thinking about what you can do to help, that’s when you know you’re on the right path.”
For those who have never volunteered or who may have stepped back from community involvement, he shares this advice:
There is something for everyone
"There's such a wide spectrum of different kinds of volunteer opportunities... There is literally something for everybody."
Start small
If time is limited, look for opportunities that fit your schedule. Even small contributions can make a difference.
Use your skills
"Take the time to ask, hey, I've got these skills. Where can I be of service?"
Be open to learning
Volunteering is not just about giving – it is also an opportunity to gain new skills and perspectives.
Focus on solutions
When addressing community problems, try to produce potential solutions, not just complaints.
More Resources
For those inspired by Tony’s story and looking to get involved, here are the organizations and resources he mentioned:
The Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a volunteer organization that trains community members in basic disaster response skills to supplement existing emergency responders during major disasters. CERT volunteers receive training in areas such as disaster preparedness, fire safety, light search and rescue, and disaster medical operations
North Fort Worth Alliance is an organization that advocates for residents in North Fort Worth, Texas, fostering communication and cooperation among member communities to protect and enhance the area. The alliance's boundaries include parts of Fort Worth Council Districts 4 and 7, with membership open to neighborhood organizations within the defined Alliance Area.
Catholic Charities – The Gabriel Project is a parish-based ministry that supports pregnant mothers and their unborn children, offering spiritual, material, and emotional assistance throughout pregnancy and beyond. The project connects pregnant women with trained mentors called Gabriel Angels and provides support through parish communities.
The Knights of Columbus is a global Catholic fraternal service order founded in 1882, with over 2.1 million members worldwide as of 2024. The organization provides insurance services to its members, supports various Catholic social causes, and promotes Catholic views on public policy issues.