As the summer months arrive and many of Houston’s social elite take to cooler destinations like Aspen, Sante Fe, and Nantucket, the city reflects on the charitable fundraising events that have graced the season.
Among these memorable gatherings was the Houston Symphony League President’s Luncheon, where a grand theme of “Bienvenue à Versailles” set the stage at Lakeside Country Club.
Chaired by Beth Wolff and Saula Valente, this luncheon marked the farewell for outgoing president Heidi Rockecharlie, who proudly announced that the league’s donation to the Symphony would surpass expectations, totaling an impressive $193,000 instead of the anticipated $100,000.
Leslie Nossaman will be stepping up as the new president, while Susan Osterberg received the prestigious Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year award, presented by the future recipient, Donna Mello.
Another highlight in the city’s charity calendar was the Holdsworth Foundation Champions of Hope Dinner at River Oaks Country Club.
Don Evans, chair of the Permian Strategic Partnership and former U.S. Secretary of Commerce, accepted the award on behalf of the organization, which focuses on developing strong leaders for Texas public schools.
Dr. Ruth Simmons, the founding chair of Holdsworth, articulated the organization’s commitment to nurturing teachers and leaders dedicated to improving the futures of Texas youth.
At the Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, over 300 supporters gathered for the AVDA New Beginnings Luncheon, raising an impressive $250,000 to support survivors of domestic violence.
Chairs Colleen DiFonzo-Lewis and Erika Frankfort spearheaded this event, which was emceed by meteorologist Chita Craft.
City Councilwoman Abbie Kamin was honored as the Ambassador of Advocacy, and the Young Advocate award was presented to the Gamma Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Chi Omega at the University of Houston.
The DePelchin Children’s Center hosted its annual “Families for Kids” luncheon, featuring the heartfelt keynote address by Peter Mutabazi.
Mutabazi, a foster dad and founder of the Now I Am Known Foundation, shared his personal story of overcoming an abusive childhood in Uganda and later fostering over 40 children in the U.S., which resonated deeply with attendees.
Another significant event was the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” luncheon, which brought together nearly 400 women, almost all in red attire, to raise close to $1 million for women’s heart health.
Rather than having a singular chair, the event acknowledged the collective efforts of leading partners such as CVS Health, St. Luke’s Health, and Encompass Health.
The Buffalo Bayou Partnership’s “Cocktails in Bloom” event welcomed around 200 attendees at Lost Lake, celebrating the historic waterway’s preservation efforts.
This vibrant evening featured live music from Lou Alejandre and Houston Groove Society, along with a unique Quick Draw Photobooth pop-up, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
The Houston Polo Club hosted a delightful afternoon picnic for Career and Recovery Resources (CRR), bringing together 240 charity-minded guests.
Chaired by Frank Billingsley and Kevin Gilliard, this event supported CRR’s mission of empowering Houstonians towards self-determination and stability through various wellness initiatives, education, and affordable housing.
Guests enjoyed refreshing cucumber lemonade and gourmet offerings while watching an exciting polo match.
Celebrating 30 years of impactful work, BRASS (Baylor Research Advocates for Student Scientists) honored several individuals for their dedication to scientific research and mentorship at Baylor College of Medicine.
Dr. James Bonar received the Angel of the Year Award for his outstanding leadership, while Dr. Ben Deneen and Dr. Ganesh Rao were recognized as Mentors of the Year.
BRASS President Elsie Eckert and 2021 scholar Sharon Bright delivered inspiring messages during the celebration.
Finally, the Houston Food Bank’s 25th Annual Chef’s Dinner at Hotel ZaZa-Museum District turned out to be a resounding success, raising $520,000 to provide over 1.5 million meals for the community.
An esteemed lineup of top area chefs created a memorable five-course feast, showcasing the best of Houston’s culinary talent.
This grand event honored the Keegan Family with the Barbara Falik Humanitarian Award and acknowledged Chef’s Dinner co-founder Jim Mills for 25 years of service.
The Star of Hope’s Bingo, Brunch and Brighter Futures event brought together approximately 300 supporters at River Oaks Country Club to benefit children residing at Houston’s oldest homeless mission.
The event recognized Amegy Bank for its longstanding support of the vital Star of Hope mission.
As summer approaches, the city looks back fondly on these charitable gatherings that not only showcased Houston’s philanthropic spirit but also contributed meaningfully to various causes in the community.
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