Manuel Estrada Jr. is the founding CEO of NHSDC, and is highly regarded in South Texas and within the NeighborWorks network as an innovator and “miracle worker” due to his many significant accomplishments in Dimmit County and the surrounding rural communities throughout the years. Mr. Estrada has a B.A. from Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas and an M.A. in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas. Mr. Estrada is a Vietnam Veteran and was awarded the Purple Heart and Army Commendation medals.

a native of Carrizo Springs, serves as the Construction Specialist for Neighborhood Housing Services of Dimmit County, Inc. In this role, Martin is responsible for overseeing and managing construction projects, ensuring that homes are built to the highest standards of quality and safety. His duties include coordinating with contractors, inspecting ongoing work, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and codes.  Mr. Vargas has over 40 years of experience in housing construction, rehab, and developing rental housing for low to moderate income families.

Martin has made a significant impact on the community, having been responsible for the construction of 22 new homes and the rehabilitation of over 60 homes for elderly and handicapped individuals. With a deep commitment to the mission, Martin is dedicated to building homes and promoting the construction of new affordable housing for eligible low to moderate-income homebuyers in Asherton, Big Wells, Carrizo Springs, and the overall county at large. His efforts contribute significantly to enhancing the quality of life for many families in the community.  Mr. Vargas has been with NHSDC, Inc. since 1986.  He has worked alongside Mr. Estrada, Executive Director of NHSDC throughout the years addressing the housing needs of rural communities in the Middle Rio Grande Region.

Michael Coats hails from Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He enlisted in the United States Air Force as a Weapons Specialist and, after medically retiring, pursued higher education at Mississippi State University. There, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, followed by a Master’s in Criminal Justice from the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC).

Michael’s professional journey began as a Juvenile Detention Officer, which ultimately led him to a 13-year career in public education. During this time, he taught various subjects to 4th through 8th-grade students, spending his last four years as a Gifted and Talented Specialist.

With a deep-seated passion for public service, Michael joined Neighborhood Housing Services of Dimmit County, Inc. as the Grants Compliance Officer. He is dedicated to researching and securing additional funding to further the organization’s mission and make a positive impact on the community.