Growing up, Kristy Kyles was surrounded by entertainers. While singing was not her thing, she found a love of taking audiences on a memorable journey.
Kyles took her passion for MC-ing and hosting event to the next level when she founded Beyond the Walls, a community outreach organization that is responsible for hosting events like 2024’s back-to-school bash, barbecue cook off and winter wonderland event.
Now, Kyles is pushing through 2025 with a vision for her organization and new goals to reach.
“My passion for community building was instilled in me from a young age,” Kyles said. “Growing up, my mom would regularly take my siblings and me to visit those in need, whether it was underprivileged children, nursing home residents, or individuals with disabilities at the Sherman Development Center.
“These experiences not only opened my eyes to the challenges others faced but also taught me the value of compassion, empathy, and kindness. My mom’s selfless example showed me that everyone deserves dignity and respect, regardless of their circumstances.”
She said those early lessons stuck with her and she has been community minded ever since. Kyles said community building is not just something she does. She said its fundamental to who she is as a person and her mother is to thank for that.
“My MC style is tailored to create a specific experience for the audience,” she said. “I’m attentive to the event’s tone, theme, and objectives, ensuring that my hosting style aligns with the desired outcome. What sets me apart is my ability to make every audience member feel welcomed, included, and valued. I believe that genuine connection is key to a successful event, and I’m committed to delivering an exceptional experience.”
More than the master of ceremonies leading the way through the events she hosts, Kyles is an entrepreneur with 16 years experience in commercial real estate. She is a licensed agent and realtor at Kristy Lea Properties.
“In addition to real estate, I also own Pro’Se Law (Pro’Se means do it yourself), a business that assists individuals with divorce proceedings,” she said recently. “While I’m not an attorney and cannot provide legal advice, I can offer support and guidance throughout the divorce process, making it more accessible and affordable.”
But, that is not all she does.
“Another venture of mine is Kristy Lea Enterprises, where I offer personal assistant services, leveraging my business management skills, which I honed through earning my bachelor’s degree,” she said. “Whether it’s setting up LLCs, resolving state comptroller issues, auditing, bookkeeping, or accounting, I’ve got the expertise to help businesses thrive.
“I’m proud to say that everything I do is backed by education and personal experience. I’ve walked the walk, and now I’m helping others achieve their goals.”
So how does Kristy Lea differentiate herself from Beyond the Walls when she has her hands in so many ventures.
“While my name, Kristy Lea, has become synonymous with community events, technically speaking, the events we host are actually Under the umbrella of Beyond the Walls Outreach,” she said.
“However, I’ve come to realize that many people in the community refer to our events simply as ‘Kristy Lea events.’ And that’s okay! I’m humbled that my name has become a trusted brand, associated with quality events that bring people together.
“So, while there is a distinction between Beyond the Walls Outreach and Kristy Lea events, in practice, they’re often used interchangeably. And I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve our community through both Beyond the Walls Outreach and my own personal brand.”
Beyond the Walls as several events planned for 2025.Beyond the Walls events include a back-to-school bash, homebuyer’s seminars, financial literacy workshop, credit repair workshop, prayer retreat, gospel fest in October, 2nd barbecue cook off in October and winter wonderland giveaway in December.
“Beyond the Walls is a lean but mighty organization, powered by a dedicated team of volunteers and leaders,” Kyles said. “Currently, we have around 20 volunteers on our roster, who generously contribute their time and talents to help us achieve our mission.
The core leadership team of the organization consists of executive director Kyles, her assistant and the founder of The Discovery Place Sheri Coleman Scales, secretary Kiera Simone and treasurer Jasmine Harper.
“As an ordained evangelist, my overall goal is to spread the Good News and share the love of Christ with our community,” she said. “Through Beyond the Walls and my personal brand, Kristy Lea, I aim to empower individuals, foster unity, and make a lasting impact.
“Impact is indeed my mantra. I’m driven by a passion to transform lives, promote hope, and inspire positive change. By hosting community events, providing resources, and connecting people with opportunities, I strive to create a ripple effect of kindness, compassion, and love that resonates throughout our community.”
The goal is beyond community preservation, she said it is about growth, “with individuals from all walks of life coming together to support one another, celebrate our diversity, and shine as beacons of hope.”
One of the newest initiatives is related to community unity. Community prayer initiative launches this week and will take place from March to December every 2nd Saturday.
“The idea for the community prayer initiative was born out of our team’s passion to serve and uplift the community,” Kyles said. “We’re always seeking innovative ways to make a positive impact, and prayer is a powerful catalyst for hope and unity.
“The concept was actually sparked by my assistant, Sheri Coleman Scales, who suggested we organize a community-wide prayer initiative. I immediately ran with the idea, and we sought permission from our Pastor, Rosa Niblet.
“We were thrilled when Pastor Niblet gave us the green light and offered Greater Harvest North as the host church for our kickoff event. From there, the initiative began to take shape, and we’re excited to see how it will bring our community together in prayer and unity.”
Churches that already agree to become united in prayer include Greater Harvest North Church under the leadership of Bishop Charles Niblet, Progressive Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Craig Davis, Great Commission Baptist under the leadership of Pastor Corey Battles, Harmony Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Clifton Easton, Friendly Church of Sherman under the leadership of Apostle Robert Softly and Temple of Hope Faith and Grace under the leadership of Apostle Samuel Castle.
“Now, we’re eager to expand our reach and partner with more local churches,” Kyles said. “We’re seeking at least six additional churches to join us in this initiative, helping us to create a powerful network of prayer and support across our community.
“If you’re a pastor or church leader interested in learning more about this opportunity, we’d love to hear from you! Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us. We have a Zoom meeting schedule Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 7 p.m.”
2025 is also bringing into focus a partnership that Kyles is very excited about. Beyond the Walls will be partnering with the Sherman Public Library this year. Kyles is working with Public Services Librarian Lauren Cannon on her workshops.
“This partnership has opened up new possibilities for us to engage with the community and provide valuable resources and programming,” Kyles said. “We’re grateful for Lauren’s enthusiasm and support, and we look forward to working closely with the Sherman Public Library to make a positive impact in our community.”
As for the rest of 2025, Beyond the Walls is working to bring more events to the region.
“As we continue to serve and uplift our community through Beyond the Walls and my personal endeavors, I want to emphasize that we can’t do it alone,” Kyles said. “We need the support and involvement of the very people we’re trying to help. I invite everyone to visit our website at www.btw8.org/impact to learn more about our initiatives and how you can get involved. Your contributions, whether through volunteering, donations, or spreading the word, are invaluable to us.
“Additionally, I’d like to remind everyone that Kristy Lea Properties is here to serve all your real estate needs. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or investor, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me through my website at www.KristyLeaPropeties.com
“Let’s work together to build a stronger, more compassionate community. We’re here to help, and we look forward to hearing from you!”
