Garland, TX — When communities face challenges, dedicated leaders like Jimmy Tran step up to make a significant impact through action and compassion. As the Founder and Immediate Past President of VN United, Jimmy has been a driving force in empowering the Asian American community and fostering unity in Garland.
A proud resident of Garland for over 22 years, Jimmy Tran moved to the city in 2002. He, along with his wife, has raised three children—Justin (18), Jennifer (17), and Jason (16)—all of whom are students in the Garland Independent School District. Jimmy’s commitment to community service is deeply rooted in his experiences as a refugee from Vietnam, where he learned the values of hard work and gratitude. His family’s journey inspires him to give back to the community that welcomed them.
Community Engagement & Service
Jimmy’s dedication to serving the Garland community spans more than a decade, during which he has actively worked to build bridges across cultures and neighborhoods. Under his leadership, VN United has launched significant initiatives, including the DFW Asian American Soccer Tournament, which brings together teams from various states and cultures. This event highlights Garland as a thriving “soccer city” and promotes cultural exchange among participants.
In addition to his work with VN United, Jimmy is heavily involved in various civic and charitable organizations:
- He has supported the Garland ISD Education Foundation by raising funds for student scholarships and classroom grants.
- As a member of the Garland Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association, he participates in community safety initiatives and events, such as Thanksgiving dinners for first responders.
- He has led voter registration drives to encourage civic engagement and organized community vaccination drives during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- His organization has been recognized at multiple levels for its community contributions, recently receiving the “Make Your Mark” Award from the City of Garland.
- He also led blood-donation drives in partnership with Carter BloodCare, encouraging residents to give back and save lives.
VN United’s Impact
Under Jimmy’s leadership, VN United has also embraced initiatives such as the First Responders Tournament, which raises funds for local charities. The organization has been instrumental in mobilizing volunteers to support relief efforts, including food donations during the 2021 winter storm.
Jimmy emphasizes the importance of collaboration within the community, stating, “True leadership means serving the entire community and building a stronger, safer, and more connected Garland for everyone.” His efforts highlight a commitment to unity and service that resonates throughout the city.
Why This Matters
Jimmy Tran embodies the spirit of service and leadership in Garland. His dedication to empowering others and fostering community collaboration illustrates how one person’s efforts can create a lasting impact. As he prepares for his bid to run for Garland City Council in May 2026, Jimmy’s vision for a more inclusive and united Garland continues to inspire those around him. Through his work, he is not only addressing immediate community needs but also nurturing a culture of compassion and support—one initiative, one family, and one community member at a time.
