2016 Spring Newsletter - Houston Children`s Charity

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19 Annual Gala
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YOU raised $1.4 million dollars for Houston’s special children – a
great year for Houston Children’s Charity and the children we serve!
1. Earth, Wind & Fire
2. Brad, Scarlette, &
Melissa Juneau
3. Tommy Kuranoff,
Maria Moncada Alaoui,
Julie & Alan Kent
4. Jana & Richard Fant
5. Hannah & Cal McNair
The intimate setting of the Hyatt Regency Houston Downtown Imperial
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Ballroom provided over 650 guests the opportunity to be up close and
personal with music legends – Earth, Wind & Fire at Houston Children’s Charity’s 19th Annual Gala.
Also in the limelight this year were our Title Sponsors Maria Moncada Alaoui – BMW of West Houston and Tommy Kuranoff – Momentum BMW Southwest. HCC President Penny Loyd was front and
center as she presented Maria and Tommy beautiful Moser Vases. They were applauded for their unprecedented support over the past 8 years and their heartfelt generosity to Houston’s special children.
Maria and Tommy are truly caring individuals and all of Houston is fortunate to have them.
We are excited to announce
the 20th Annual Gala
Title Sponsors!
Houston Children’s Charity Board
of Directors would like to extend
a special thank you to
Maria Moncada Alaoui –
BMW of West Houston and
Tommy Kuranoff –
Momentum BMW \Southwest for their
unprecedented support for the 9th
consecutive year. Their generous
contributions have made a huge
difference in the lives of so many
children. We are grateful for their sustained
loyalty and unwavering support.
Thank You Maria and Tommy for
continuing your gracious support to
Houston Children’s Charity.
Contributing generously to the evening’s success
were Gala Co-Chairs Jana & Richard Fant and
Melissa, Brad and Scarlette Juneau – who are
passionate about their causes and brought an energy that was contagious throughout the evening.
Honorees Hannah & Cal McNair were revered for
their commitment and support to the Houston community. Their dedication and compassion for children
has been unwavering for many years.
★
Emcee Dave Ward / ABC-13 KTRK-TV news anchor brought his usual professionalism and entertainment to the stage. Reverend Mary Gracely of
One Spirit Interfaith Community provided a heartfelt
and personal message to the crowd as she delivered
the evening’s invocation. It was truly an honor to
have them both as part of our evening.
★
We also offer special cheers to our longtime friend
and supporter, Denise Ehrlich of
Renaissance Wine Marketing, LLC and
our new friend, Monique G. Studak
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Embarking on
20 Years!
t all began as a fundraiser for
Laura Ward’s own children’s school –
five bucks a head for a spaghetti dinner
in the high school gym of a private Christian
school. Over thirty-five million dollars and
twenty-nine years later, her drive to help
children in need ranks her among the top
Executive Directors of children's charities.
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Over the past 19 years, through an array
of capital and operating support, HCC
has provided program services for over
300 agencies and more than 1,000,000
children.
We are making progress, assisting one child
at a time and measure our success by the
number of children’s lives that are touched.
Houston Children’s Charity benefits from a
steadfast Executive Director and a “hands
on” Board of Directors that carefully
decide how to efficiently and effectively
meet children’s needs. Our supporters come
from all walks of life. Thank you for your
generosity over the past 19 years. Remember
our goal is to leave no legitimate request
for assistance unanswered. We are always
seeking an ever-broadening base of support,
dedicated sponsors and committed volunteers as we embark on our 20th year to
expand the ability to help children. We
could not do it without your help and we
thank you and look forward to many more
years to bettering our community.
HOUSTON CHILDREN’S CHARITY
•
SPRING 2016 • 1
A Trip Down Memory Lane —
Houston Children’s Charites Board of Directors
Gary D. Becker
Stacy E. Johnson
FONDEST MEMORIES — HOUSTON CHILDREN’S CHARITES BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Michelle Alcorn's poem
will always
be embedded into
my mind.
Roses are red.
Violets are Blue.
I could not be writing this
If it weren't for you.
Daniel R. D’Armond
I have worked with
hundreds of nonprofits in the Houston
community and across
the country. Nothing
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had a more profound
impact on me the way
the smiles and tears on the faces of the
kids that received their first ever bed as a
result of the “A Better Night’s Sleep”
program did. That is why we do this.
Donald J Henderson
Seems like only
yesterday when a
small group of us sat
down to discuss how
we could form a charity
that would take care
of the kids slipping
through the cracks of other charities. It’s
truly amazing how far we’ve come.
John B. Johnson
Some of my fondest
memories are all of the
smiles our charity has
delivered over the years.
…seeing a family smile
when we provide a van.
…seeing a child smile
as they interact with the Easter bunny.
…seeing children smile as they receive gifts
from Santa Claus at our Annual Christmas
Party.
Our charity is someone else’s sunshine,
we are the reason they smile.
Robert E. Ogle-continued
Hearing all of the
stories of how Houston
Children's Charity has
changed many lives
of children and their
families by meeting their
most basic needs, is not
only inspiring but encouraging. As a new
board member, I am proud to be a part of
an organization that finds a way to help
children and their families meet basic needs
that are not getting met by providing access
and opportunities. Thank you.
Dr. Lois J. Moore
My first and lasting
memory were the smiles
I saw on the kids’ faces
at the Hyatt Regency
several years doing
the toy distribution.
The Easter celebration
I attended was also impressive. The message
here is that the agency fills the gaps in so
many lives.
Jeremy A. Newsom
As a new board
member, my favorite
event has been the
2015 “Chariots for
Children” event where
HCC gave 9 handicap
accessible vans to
families in need. To see the excitement
from the children and their families, and
to hear the life-changing opportunities
that transportation will provide, showed
me exactly why HCC is so important to our
community.
Robert E. Ogle
It’s all about the kids!
That was the inspiration
for forming Houston
Children’s Charity 20
years ago. HCC has an
incredible Executive
Director and Board
but what is really impressive is the broad
continued—
James D. Woods
One night many years
ago Laura, my wife and
I met at La Grigla. We
had a nice talk and she
invited me to be an Advisory Director. Of
course I accepted because I have a lot of respect for Laura.
Why? I was the one when I was running
Baker Hughes that assisted in bringing
Frank Sinatra to Houston. I told Laura I
would raise $200,000 by selling ten $20,000 tables. She was running Variety
Club and I was quite active in the Variety
Club and the stars all came together and
we had super evening!
David H. Ward
At the charity’s annual
Christmas toy giveaway some 15 to 18
years ago, Laura put
me behind the small
children’s counter,
thinking I could handle building blocks, dolls, games etc. without messing things up. A nurse brought a
little five or six year old blind girl down to
that counter to select a toy and she said,
“Oh, look honey, some alphabet blocks in
braille”. The blocks were in a net bag so
the nurse could see them and the little girl
could feel them. After they took the
blocks and left, I looked at the remaining
couple of dozen bags of alphabet blocks,
and not a single one of them was in
braille. I was amazed, and realized then
what a very special thing had just happened. Houston Children’s Charity is
blessed, and I am very proud to be part of
its history.
Letter from the Executive Director
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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volunteer support. HCC exists to help
children in the Houston area but our
challenge is to find the children and
identify their needs. I have never
known an organization with such
committed and passionate employees,
Board members and volunteers. The
first 20 years were impressive I can’t
wait to see what will happen over the
next 20 years.
Happy New Year!
This past year, Houston Children’s Charity
has had much to be thankful for. Our
loyal donors, constant supporters and
incredible volunteers have made our
work possible by giving their time and
resources to directly impact the special
children we serve.
All across the greater Houston area there
are children who have to cope with sickness, disability or disadvantage. It’s hard.
Really hard…
• Dad lost his job causing the family
to be evicted from their home,
consequently losing all of their
belongings. At the new apartment,
the children were sleeping on the floor...
until HCC’s “A Better Night’s Sleep”
provided each child with a brand new
bed of their very own.
• Julian suffers from Duchenne Muscular
Dystrophy. Julian could not go on
regular outings with his family because
of the confinement to his wheelchair.
HCC’s “Chariots for Children”
awarded Julian’s family a handicapped
accessible van – this is LIFE ALTERING
for Julian and allows him to spend
more time with his family and friends.
• A young mother alone and struggling,
heartbroken that her little ones will
not receive anything for the holiday
season...HCC’s angels provided toys
and more, much needed winter coats
and a holiday meal that they never
imagined possible.
These are but a few examples of our
impact in the community achieved year
round by Houston Children’s Charity.
Thank you for believing in our mission and
in our children. We look forward to 2016.
Laura Ward
Executive Director
“Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of your arm...As you grow older you will discover that you have two hands.
One for helping yourself, the other for helping others.”
—AUDREY HEPBURN
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HOUSTON CHILDREN’S CHARITY
•
SPRING 2016
HCC Programs
Houston Children’s Charity provides over 100 beds per month to children in
the Gulf Coast area – over 6,800 beds have been awarded to date!
In 2005, during our annual Christmas
programs, Houston experienced a
large influx of families settling in the
area due to Hurricane Katrina. While
securing family’s wish lists for Christmas, there was a significant number
of bed request for the children instead
of toys. That year, 25 beds were provided for children and became the
catalyst for what is now Houston
Children’s Charity’s “A Better Night’s
Sleep” program.
Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner anywhere. Houston
Children’s Charity’s “Back2School” program is paving the road for success.
Beginning with just one school district our program now encompasses a
number of independent school districts, charter schools and covers over 5
counties. Overall, this annual project has helped more
than 19,000 children.
In the summer of 2005 the program was formed to
provide underserved children of Houston with backpacks
and school supplies. The collection, packaging and
distributions of packs and supplies were done from the
HCC offices where we distributed 130 backpacks.
Today, the all-day distribution is held at the HCC
Warehouse. We are pleased to announce that Rod Ryan
from KTBZ-FM, 94.5 “The Buzz” and BullShirts will be back again braving
the scorching Texas summer heat to help distribute full backpacks to eligible
students for the 7th consecutive year!!
Every night there are so many of
Houston’s children that are sleeping
on make shift beds, sharing, or worse, sleeping on the floor. This program
provides every child an opportunity to sleep better by having a brand new
twin mattress set, bed frame, sheets, pillow and blanket.
Eleven years after the program’s inaugural distribution, we are now awarding over 4,000 backpacks filled with supplies to those underserved children
of the Houston area each summer.
In 2014, we partnered with locally owned and operated manufacturer,
Texas Mattress Makers and owner Youval Meclier to provide quality, lowcost beds for “A Better Night’s Sleep” program. In the last two years Texas
Mattress Makers has donated over 1,000 beds to help provide sweet dreams
for many children.
We believe that all children should walk into school on Day One with a
backpack and basic supplies ready to expand their knowledge. The evergrowing list of essential supplies needed for academic excellence should
not leave families struggling. This program provides school-aged children
with a foundation ready for great accomplishments.
There is no other existing program in Houston providing brand new twin beds
and bedding on a monthly basis to children in need. Each bed represents an
opportunity for children to have SWEET DREAMS and a relaxing place to lay
their head
The “Chariots for Children” program was created in 1996 to grant organizations with transportation needed to increase their impact on the underserved
communities of Houston. We are proud to say that in the last 19 years we
have awarded 89 passenger vans, 28 handicapped accessible vehicles,
3 box trucks, 1 car and 2 vehicle modifications to 93 agencies and
28 individual families all while helping impact the lives of tens of thousands
of children locally.
In 2002, this program expanded
to include wheelchair modified
vehicles for families whose
children suffer with debilitating
illnesses. For many children,
these vans provide transportation
to treatment or therapy. For some,
it is a first-step into a larger world
by delivering mobility freedom
not otherwise available.
As the seasons change, so does our wardrobe. Through generous
donations, racks and shelves alike are filled with gently used and new
clothing for infants to adults. Since 2009, the “HCC Closet” has clothed
over 5,000 children throughout the Houston area.
In a city that has over 26% of children living below the poverty line, the
“HCC Closet” is one of the many programs making great efforts in
providing some of their basic clothing
necessities. With the stress of keeping a
roof over their head and food on the table,
low income families are able to reduce
some of their worries in regards to receiving
clothing at no cost to themselves.
The blessings these families receive through
the “HCC Closet” would not be possible
without the community donating their
gently used items. Along with the abundance of donations, there are
many hours of service put in by dedicated volunteers to ensure our closet
is ready for each family. On a weekly basis, volunteers work hard to sort
and organize clothing donations to maintain a unique atmosphere making
each family’s shopping experience one to remember.
After years of purchasing modified vehicles from different dealers, 2014
formed a partnership with AMS Vans and their owners, Kip Crum and
Dallas Crum. Since then, Kip, Dallas and their team have joined with HCC
in lowering the cost of vans to assist us in achieving our goals.This affiliation
helps us to increase the growth of the program therefore enhancing more
lives of underprivileged, handicapped and abused children in the Houston
Community and surrounding areas.
On behalf of the families served, we thank all of you for your big hearts in
keeping our closet full and children and their families clothed. We thank
Melissa Juneau for chairing this program from the beginning. Another
warm thank you to Melissa and Brad Juneau for the many years of
generosity in providing funding for the closet space. We also send a very
special thank you to Gary Becker for his recent assistance in keeping the
doors of our closet open.
Heat and humidity of Houston make air-conditioning important in day-to-day
life. In 2011, out of need in our community, HCC launched “Kool Kidz.”
Those families not having an air
conditioner in our Houston
summers can face brutal
temperatures. This program
has allowed 98 families the
opportunity to stay cool during
the hottest months of the year.
In 2006, Houston Children’s Charity pledged a gift in the amount of
$1,000,000 to establish the “Houston Children’s Charity Family
Emergency Fund at Texas Children’s Cancer Center.”
Houston is the largest city in
the state of Texas and the fourthlargest in the United States.
The huge expanse of Texas
encompasses several regions with
distinctly different climates. Our
city is considered to boast higher
humidity which amplifies the feeling of heat during June through August.
with organizations that share a common mission. Your ongoing philanthropy
Houston averages only 18.0 days per year with temperatures of 32°F or less
and 99.6 days with high temperatures of 90°F or more. In 2010, Houston
broke the 1980 record of 32 days over 100 degrees and ended up with 46
days over 100 degrees. Can you imagine spending 46 days in that kind of
heat without an air conditioner?
“Ten years ago, your generosity
established the Houston Children’s
Charity Family Emergency Fund,
and what an impact it has made!
We appreciate your dedication so much – it is always such an honor to join forces
helps us fulfill our purpose and our promise to provide the highest quality care to
children with cancer – regardless of their family’s ability to pay – and to meet their
special needs.”
Mark Wallace
President, CEO,Texas Children’s Hospital
Funds made possible for the team at Texas Children’s Hospital help to
pay for items such as lodging, mortgage, car payments, meals for
family members, parking during medical visits and clothing/shoes.
These families already have so much to worry about, while children
are in treatment at Texas Children’s Cancer Center – it is such a relief
to know that they are receiving assistance in other areas.
HOUSTON CHILDREN’S CHARITY
• SPRING 2016 • 3
OUT IN THE COMMUNITY…
IT IS SUCH A JOY TO BE OUT IN THE
COMMUNITY sharing our resources and
successes to build an even stronger one.
As Houston Children’s Charity works to
create a world where every child has
their very own bed, clothing, school
supplies, transportation, health services,
and joyful holidays, we depend on our
community to help us do just that.
Throughout 2015, various agencies and
companies invited us to continue to connect, develop,
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and grow awareness
within our community.
Without these
relationships,
Houston Children’s Charity would not have the
ability to reach its full potential and address the
needs of Houston’s special
children.
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Again, we thank Maria Moncada Alaoui
– BMW of West Houston and
Tommy Kuranoff – Momentum BMW
Southwest, for the ALL NEW 2016
M235i Coupe. This package, which
included a tour of the BMW plant
in Munich and air travel, went to
high bidders - Julie & Alan Kent!
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• Talbots – Shop
with a Purpose
• Dia De Los Niño’s
with Association
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of Advancement
of Mexican
Americans
1. BMW of West Houston Grand Opening
• Meet & Greet with Sauce Twinz &
2. Chanukah Fest
3. Dia De Los Niños
Boost Mobile
4. H-Town Classic - 3rd Annual Charity
• College & Career Day – Klein
Basketball Tournament
Intermediate School
5. International Night Market
6. NES Global Talent
• OKRA Charity Saloon
7. Love Community Center
• International Night Market
8. OKRA Charity Saloon
• Love Community Center Summer
9. Talbots - Shop with a Purpose
Enrichment Program
10. Sauce Twinz & Boost Mobile
• BMW of West Houston – Grand Opening
• H-Town Classic – 3rd Annual Charity
Basketball Tournament
• Houston Association of Health Underwriters
• City of Houston’s Combined Municipal CampaignCMC Agency Fair
• Houston Parks and Recreational Department - Annual Fall
Agency Fair and Silent Auction
• NES Global Talent – Charity Golf Tournament & Contract
T ICKETS G ALORE
THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, MANY UNDERSERVED CHILDREN had the
opportunity to experience new adventures. Our special children were able
to enjoy outings from mind-bending acts of magic to musical productions
and major local sporting events. Over 1300 tickets were donated to these
various outings—giving our special children a day to remember! Special
thanks to the following caring donors:
• Society of Performing Arts, “The Illusionist” - 100 tickets
• City Lights Theatre, “The Addams Family the Musical” - 200 tickets
• Mr. Kevin Washington, a season ticket holder with handicap
accessible seats - 19 sets of Houston Astros tickets
• Dynamo Charities’ Kicks for Kids, Houston Dynamo & Dash Soccer
Games- 645 tickets
• Rice 100 Club, Rice University Football - 300 tickets
• Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston Texans Pre-Season Game 20 tickets
For many of our kids, these were life altering experiences to see the best of
what Houston has to offer. We cannot thank the many donors that made
these dreams come true.
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HOUSTON CHILDREN’S CHARITY
Many thanks to loyal supporters,
underwriters, auction and big board
bidders – ALL for Houston’s
underserved children!
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•
SPRING 2016
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We also offer special cheers to our longtime
friend and supporter, Denise Ehrlich of
Renaissance Wine Marketing, LLC and
our new friend, Monique G. Studak of
Kenwood Vineyards for providing the fine
wines throughout the evening.
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We thank all of these
agencies and companies
that opened their door to
us to further our mission.
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Each of these events
allowed us to build
awareness and many
even raised funds for our
special children!
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GALA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
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Other high bidders for the evening
included Maria Moncada-Alaoui
and Tommy Kuranoff who will
invite their guests to a fabulous
“Houston Texans Party” at the
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home of Paige & Tilman Fertitta
cohosting with Hannah & Cal McNair.
Martha & Jaime Ramirez will
take pleasure in a dinner with
Adrian Peterson and Gary Becker
is headed to Cabo San Lucas! Not
to be outdone, Jeanette & Jim Woods
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won a custom designed piece by
Kaylin Harr Jewelers and a trendy
Sakowitz Fur, as well as an excited
Becky & Kelly Joy won a beautiful
piece by Judith Ann Jewels.
Donna Peak scored with an exquisite
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original by Wayne Smith Jewels and
Michael Hoctor went home with a
beautiful “fur baby” – Rocky the
Labrador. Penny & Paul Loyd are
also headed on a once in a lifetime road
trip with the Houston Rockets! Cherie Lindley
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will delight in a dinner with Houston Astros –
Carlos Correa and Jose Altuve and “lucky”
winner, Edna Meyer-Nelson will head out to
Golden Nugget Lake Charles.
In the crowd were Houston Police
Chief Charles McClelland &
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Maurine Ford, Janice &
Tad Brown, Yanika &
David Huntington,
Maggie & Don Henderson,
Trini Mendenhall,
Leslie Golden & Grant Guthrie,
Carol & Dr. Tom Sawyer,
Norelle & Brian Becker,
Diana Brackman & Allen Becker,
Tracy & Harry Faulkner,
Melanie Lawson & John Guess,
Cathy & Jesse Marion,
Sunny & Mak Haik,
Dr. Lois Moore,
Reverend Mary &
Tony Gracely,
Paige Fertitta,
Mary Lou & Steve Dujka, 41
Laura & John Johnson,
Dominique Sachse & Nick Florescu,
Henry J.N. “Kitch” Taub II,
Debbie & Bob Ogle,
Ilene Allen & Doug Vrooman,
Arlene & Marshall Hoffman,
Maria Bush, Monica & John Blaisdell
and Michelle Rogers & Robert Marsh.
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HOUSTON CHILDREN’S CHARITY UNDERWRITERS
gathered at the beautiful home of Melissa & Brad
Juneau to celebrate the sponsors of the 19th Annual
Gala. The evening was one of accolades and heartfelt
gratitude to this year’s Underwriters beginning with
Title Sponsors Maria Moncada Alaoui, BMW of
West Houston and Tommy Kuranoff, Momentum
BMW Southwest. Maria and Tommy’s on-going
generosity to HCC’s special kids is truly
amazing!
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Underwriter Event
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HCC President Penny Loyd, continued
the presentation by thanking Honorees
Hannah & Cal McNair for the magnitude of their commitment and support
of the Houston community. Gala
Co-Chairs Jana & Richard Fant and
Melissa, Brad and Scarlette Juneau
were also recognized for their generosity
to Houston’s special children.
Penny, Jana, Melissa and Hannah
awarded gifts (donated by Stacey Swift /
Neiman Marcus) to the following Gala
Underwriters: Paige & Tilman Fertitta,
Penny & Paul Loyd, Jana & Richard
Fant, Melissa & Brad Juneau,
The Lester and Sue Smith
Foundation, Becker Family
Foundation - Gary Becker,
Hyatt Regency Houston Tom Netting, Richland Investments Edna Meyer-Nelson, Leslie Alexander
and The Houston Rockets,
Robert Marsh / Roy Marsh,
Janice & Bob McNair, Laura &
John Johnson and Houston First
/ Dawn Ullrich.
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Penny also recognized the
following contributing sponsors:
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Kip Crum, Dallas Crum,
Gil Bruvel, Judith Ann Bufkin,
Bill Truman, Youval Meicler,
Eunice Munoz, Denise Ehrlich,
Monique G. Studak, Martin Fox,
Barbara McKnight, Taft McWhorter
and Wayne Smith.
The Juneau’s home truly provided the
ambience for one of the most fantastic
Underwriter events Houston Children’s
Charity has ever enjoyed. The guests
mingled through the beautiful grounds,
indulged in delicate delights by
Culinaire Inspired Cuisine & Events
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and enjoyed perfect weather.
Thank you Melissa, Brad and
Scarlette for casting the most
magical evening!
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1. Roz & Alan Pactor
2. Cayden Hart, Nikki Hart
3. Ilene Allen & Doug Vroomen
4. Margaret Alkek Williams, Jim Daniel
5. Carol Sawyer, Chris Kase
6. Cal & Hal McNair, Penny & Paul Loyd
7. Danice & Randy Lowry
8. Edna Meyer-Nelson, Bill Whitehead
9. Christy & Lou Cushman
10. Ashley & Rob Ball, Earth, Wind & Fire
11. Veronica Nemeth, Tommy Kuranoff
12. Virginia & Dan Steppe
13. Tracy & Harry Faulkner
14. Arlene & Marshall Hoffman
15. Maureen Ford, Chief McClelland
16. Trini Mendenhall
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17. Paige Fertitta, Karen Thompson
18. Laura & Dave Ward
19. Michelle Kirsch, Edna Meyer-Nelson, Deborah Duncan
20. Elizabeth & Tom Netting
21. Michael Hoctor
22. Maria Moncada Alaoui & Omar Alaoui
23. Natasha Paster, Michelle Gordon, Youval Meicler,
Rachel Gordon, Sarah Gordon
24. Yanika & David Huntington
25. Joey Boesch, Valerie Boesch
26. Julie & Alan Kent
27. Carol & Dr. Tom Sawyer
28. Winell & Doug Herron
29. Karen & Byron Hood
30. Tina & Dave Strickland
31. Norelle & Brian Becker
32. Mary & Tony Gracely
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33. April Kellum, Rod Ryan
34. Debbie & Bob Ogle
35. Penny & Paul Loyd
36. Clyde Drexler, Tonya Drexler, Larry Johnson,
Tad Brown, Lisa Beverly, Janice Brown, Monja Willis
37. Leslie Golden, Grant Guthrie
38. Barbara & Lance McKnight
39. Brittany Zucker, Sherri Zucker
40. Dominique Sache, Nick Florescu
41. “Rocky”
42. Melissa Juneau, Donna Peak
43. Maggie & Don Henderson
44. Jeanette & Jim Woods
45. Cathy & Jesse Marion
46. Jackie & Dr. Hank Blum
47. Robert Marsh, Michelle Rogers
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1. Melissa & Scarlette Juneau
2. Tommy Kuranoff, Veronica Nemeth
3. Crystal & Jeremy Newsom
4. Yanika & David Huntington
5. Mark Haynes, Dallas Crum, Greg Meszaros
6. Donna Peak
7. Kaylin Harr & Stephanie Padgett
8. Dana & Taft McWhorter
9. Ashley & Rob Ball
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10. Dan D’Armond, Penny Loyd, Dr. Lois Moore, Michael Williams
11. Jana Fant, Melissa Juneau, Hannah McNair
12. Elizabeth & Tom Netting, Tracy & Harry Faulkner
13. Grant Guthrie, Leslie Golden, Gil Bruvel, Carol & Dr. Tom Sawyer
14. Rachel Gordan, Youval Meicler, Sarah Gordon
15. Renee & Fernando Somoza
16. Eunice Munoz, Alberto Morales
17. Sherri Zucker, Brittany Zucker, Edna Meyer-Nelson
18. Wayne Smith, Scarlette Juneau
HOUSTON CHILDREN’S CHARITY
•
SPRING 2016
•
5
A Huge Thanks to Our Awesome Volunteers
OUR AWESOME VOLUNTEERS
Trudy & Kirk Broiles
I have been a volunteer at
the last four Gala's and I
enjoy so much meeting and
interacting with the patrons
throughout the night. It is
amazing to see the amount
of money raised and I'm thrilled to be a small part
of helping HCC each year at this special event. I'm
looking forward to being a volunteer again this
year! Thanks for letting me part of HCC.
—Trudy Broiles
I've been privileged to volunteer at the
"Van Give-a-way" for the last two years and
I'm hoping to do it again this year. It is such a
remarkable event to be a part of. Seeing the
faces of the parents and children when they
receive the van, only one word is needed to
describe the feeling that I get being a
—Kirk Broiles
participant..."PRICELESS"!
Kim & Craig Finnigan
We started volunteering
with Houston Children's
Charity 5 years ago. We
feel like the work the
charity does for the
under-served children of
Houston goes above and beyond what many
of Houston's other organizations do. It has
been very rewarding to see the direct effect the
various programs have on so many children's
lives. We look forward to being involved for
many years to come.
Allen Hord
One of my favorite quotes
is by Winston Churchill. "We
make a living by what we get,
we make a life by what we
give."Volunteering with
Houston Children's Charity,
allows me to make a life, by
helping those less fortunate
in the city of Houston.
Christopher Merrill
I volunteer with HCC because
I believe that every child
deserves the same things that
I had in my childhood. I know
that no matter what I do with
Houston Children’s Charity
(from fundraising at the Gala
to helping to make Christmas
magic happen) I have helped a child in need
create positive memories that will last forever.
Carol Sawyer
Twenty years; it’s hard
to believe. But if anything
makes one a "believer"—
it's Laura Ward and the
Houston Children's
Charity.
In my lifetime of
volunteering, I have
never witnessed a staff, a Board of Directors,
an Executive Director and volunteers come
together to create such a successful nonprofit organization. The goals are succeeded
in every aspect and excel in each program.
I consider myself fortunate to be a part of
HCC, to see the happy faces of children and
families who benefit from the due diligence
and the fulfillment of those who initiate and
complete what's needed for making lives
better. My total respect and admiration goes
to Laura Ward and those who can proudly
say: "Missions Accomplished!!"
We are always in need of caring volunteers
for our events.
Houston Children’s Charity seeks an
ever-broadening base of support, dedicated
sponsors and committed volunteers to expand
its ability to help children
Special Thanks
4-H Club of Spring
Abundant Light
Air Conditioning Contractors of America
Maria Moncada Alaoui / Momentum BMW West
Alcoa Oil & Gas
Joan & Sanford Alexander
Leslie Alexander & The Houston Rockets
Margaret Alkek Williams,
Randa & Charles Williams
Ilene Allen & Doug Vrooman
Jose Altuve
Amegy Bank of Texas / Jeremy Newsom
Cynthia Anhalt
Annual Menorah Lighting Chanukah Fest 2015
Apache Deepwater & Associates
Susan Atkins / Architectural Design Resources
Armandos Great Mexican Bistro
Arne's Warehouse Party Store
Arnold & Itkin LLP
Harrison and Reese Atkins
Awesome Events
Jeff Bagwell
Victoria Barclay / Best Entertainers
Gary Becker
Elvin Bethea
Patrick Beverley
Craig Biggio
Jonathan Blake
Jackie & Dr. Hank Blum
Blusource
BMC Software / Dan D'Armond
Boost Mobile
Borden Dairy Company
Bobby Boswell
Ann Brookshire
Tad Brown
Brownie Troop 114012
Beth & Kirk Bruce
Gil Bruvel
Bud Light / Silver Eagle Distributors
Jeanne Bulnes
Burberry Americas
Bury, inc.
Jan & Kurt Byth
Earl Campbell
Rocky Carroll / RJ Boot Co.
Keely & Carl Carter
Sgt. Eric Castillo
CHANEL Houston Galleria
Children's Museum of Houston
Brian Ching
Christian Dior Couture
Classic Portrait Source
Roger Clemens
Cloudspace USA / David Levin
Coca-Cola North America / Susan Stading
Combined Municipal Campaign Houston
Community Bank of Texas / Bob & Nan Franklin
Carlos Correa
Crave Cupcakes
Dallas Crum / AMS Vans
Kip Crum / AMS Vans
Curley Culp
Megan & Brian Cushing
Christy & Lou Cushman
Darren Miller / D Miller & Associates
David Huntington Foundation
David Weekley Homes
Reese Davis
Deer Lake Lodge Spa & Resort
Dr. & Mrs. C.D. Delery, Jr.
Detail Company Adventures
DeVelour Make Up & Tan
Eric Dickerson
Julie Dodson
6
•
HOUSTON CHILDREN’S CHARITY
Joe Dotterwiech / BullShirts
Dover Artificial Lift
Dover Energy
Downtown Aquarium Houston
Duckhorn Wine Company
Jan Duncan
Charles E. Dryer IV, D.D.S., M.S.
Dynamo Charities / Kicks 4 Kids
Dynamo Charities presented by
the Halliburton Charitable Foundation
Dynamo Diesel
Andrea & Lyle Eastham
Denise Ehrlich / Renaissance Wine Marketing, LLC.
Etoile Cuisine et Bar
F-11 Heart Failure Floor
Jana & Richard Fant
Tracy & Harry Faulkner
Paige & Tilman Fertitta / Landry's Inc.
Kim & Craig Finnigan
Ken Fisher / AT&T
Stephanie & Ryan Fleck
Sanfora K. Foote / PAL Dancers
Romina & Arian Foster
Martin Fox
Ellie & Michael Francisco
Brian Freeze
Susan Friedkin
FROSCH International Travel
Gap Foundation
Betsy Garlinger
Sylvia Garza / Salviace Photography
Girl Scout Troop 17304
Bob Gonzales / RAG Printing
Glen Gonzalez
Reverend Mary & Tony Gracely
Garrett Graham
Debra & Mark Gregg
Grant Guthrie
Martin Hague / Flying L Guest Ranch
HAHU (Houston Association of
Healthcare Underwriters)
Halliburton Foundation
Leo Hamel
James Harden
Harmony School of Excellence
Terri & John Havens / Cal-a-Vie Health Spa
Elvin Hayes
H-E-B / Soraya & Scott McClelland
David Helffirich
Maggie & Donald J Henderson
Carmen & Richard Hernandez / 1st Responders
Medical Services
Gary Hickok & Monica Tschen
Shelby Hodge & Shafik Rifaat
Arlene & Marshall Hoffman
Allen Hord
Houston Astros
Houston First / Dawn Ullrich
Houston LIVE Characters
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Speakers
Committee
Houston Methodist Hospital Texans' Zone
HPD K9 Mascot
Houston Police Department
Houston Police Department Recruitment
Department
Houston Rockets - Clutch & Power Dancers
Dwight Howard
H-Town Classic~Annual Charity Basketball
Tournament
Hyatt Regency Houston
Izzie's Jewels
J Ramco Inc. / Martha & Jaime Ramirez
Kareem Jackson
James Coney Island
• SPRING 2016
Kathleen & James Jennings
John B. Johnson
Stacy & Jason Johnson / MetroNational
Ben Jones
Shelley & Gene Jorgensen
Johnathan Joseph
Judith Ann Jewels
Melissa & Brad Juneau / Juneau Exploration
Tristan Kane
Chris Kase
Kaylin Harr Jewelers
Kenwood Vineyards / Monique G. Studak
Klein Collins High School Student Council
Klein Forrest High School Student Council
Klein Volunteer Fire Department
kmjq Majic 102 / Wanda Lockhart / Terri Thomas /
Robert "Bass Man" Washington
James Kramer / Kramer Portraits, New York
Tommy Kuranoff / Momentum BMW Southwest
Janiece & Stephen Lasher
Steven Lemm / Northland Christian School
The Lester & Sue Smith Foundation
Darla Lexington
Lone Star Cab
Danice & Randy Lowry, Jr.
Penny & Paul B. Loyd, Jr.
Kelley & Steve Lubanko
Norelle Lundy
Alyssa & Ronald Lyle
Mac Haik Enterprises / Mac & Sunny Sue Haik
Liz Macia / LM Photography
Liz & Alan Magenheim
Executive Chef Frank Majowicz /
Hyatt Regency Houston
Moses Malone
Cathy & Jesse Marion
Robert Marsh / eSigns / Digimagination
Roy Marsh
Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty
Barbara McKnight / CULINAIRE Inspired
Cuisine & Events
Hannah & Cal McNair
Taft McWhorter / Taft McWhorter Art
MEDCO Supply Company
Youval Meicler / Texas Mattress Makers /
Living Designs Furniture
Trini Mendenhall
Methodist Hospital I-CARE In Action
Edna Meyer-Nelson / Richland Investments
Microsoft / Projects With A Purpose
Midstates Petroleum Corporation
Christina & Todd Milligan
Melissa & Michael Mithoff
Moet Hennessy USA
Dr. Lois Moore
Calvin Murphy
Bobbie & John Nau III
National Charity League - Wildflowers (Spring)
NES Global Talent
Tom Netting
Norris, A Dover Company
NRG Energy
Mr. & Mrs. Bill O'Brien
Office Depot Foundation
Debbie & Bob Ogle
OKRA Charity Bar
Hakeem Olajuawon
Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.
Kim Padgett
Stephanie Paget & Sasha Mortiz
Parvizian Rugs & Home
Pelican Reef Villas Resorts
PepsiCo
Adrian Peterson
Pointer Wingshooting
Derek Potts
PrimeWay Federal Credit Union
Randall's Food Markets
Laura Rathe / Laura Rathe Fine Art
Shelley & David Reeves
Dr. Mary Ann Reynolds Wilkins
Rice 100 Club
Joseph Rocchi / Accutek
Janelle & Mike Rogers
Regina Rogers
Sybil F. Roos
Ruth & Nolan Ryan
Rod Ryan 94.5 The Buzz
Sakowitz Furs
Susan D. Sarofim
Sauce Twinz
Carol & Dr. Tom Saywer
Mr. & Mrs. Herman J. Schultz
Seaworld San Antonio
Rosalie & Bill Sharkey
Silverlight Photography
Nathan Simmons / In A Lifetime Photograhy
Wayne Smith / Wayne Smith Jewels
Bess & George Smith / Spirit Expo
Rick Smith
Society of Asian Scientists
Soceity of Preforming Arts
Fernando Somoza / Watercross Kennel
Squeezed Online
Matthew B. Steele
Steinberg Design Collaborative, LLP
Virginia & Dan Steppe
Vanessa Streavel / Maddy's Annual Book Drive
Sherry & Mike Sutton
Stacey Swift / Neiman Marcus
Sysco Corporation
Taco Cabana
Talbots - Town & Country Village
Marcy Ellen Taub
Taub Foundation
Tellespen
Texas Capital Bank / Rob Ball
Texas Children's Hospital / Dr. David G. Poplack
The Events Co.
The MST Foundation
Jenny & Jerry Thompson
Tootsies
Phoebe & Robert Tudor
Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty
Twin Peaks
US Marine Corps ~ 1st Battalion 23rd Marine
Regiment, 4th Marine Division
USB Private Wealth Management Amsler and
Laborde Team
Valero Houston Refinery
Officer Al Vallejo
Donna & Tony Vallone / Tony's Resturant
Vector Seismic / Peter Jones
Violeta Pasteles
Dave Ward / ABC-13 KTRK-TV
Kevin Washington
J.J. Watt
Jon Weeks
Wendy's Old Fashion Hamburgers
Whataburger
Which Wich?
Vince Wilfork
Karen Winston
Anne Winter & Kris Binnion
Jeanette & Jim Woods
World Renowned Portraiture Bradford
Pamela & Jack Wright /
The Wright Pawn & Jewelry Co., Inc.
Gretchen & John Wright
Sherri Zucker / Brittany Blake Interiors
Believe in the“Magic” of Christmas
With the change in seasons and the weather turning cooler, Houston Charity buckles
down for its busiest time of the year. Putting together three different events
for the Holiday Season becomes priority one!
As our Christmas program grows, we are very thankful for the willingness
of our contributors, sponsors and volunteers to assist in this endeavor.
We are forever grateful for the 1st Battalion 23rd Marine Regiment,
4th Marine Division and Houston First Corporation – George R.
Brown Convention Center partnerships. For the past eight years, the
Marines have chosen HCC as the charity of choice for the Marine Corps
Reserve “Toys for Tots” program. Since 2010 Houston
First Corporation has donated 125,000 square feet of
space to assist in our expanded toy distribution. Without
the continued support of both sponsors, HCC would not
have the toys nor venue appropriate for the vast number
of families in need.
Annual Christmas Party
On Sunday, December 13, 2015, over 600 children
from the Houston area were treated to a day full of
“Christmas Magic” at the Hyatt Regency Houston
Downtown. These amazing memories included toys,
goodies, entertainment and, of course, the arrival of
Santa and Mrs. Claus (thank you William (Bill) Sharkey
and Jeanne Bulnes).
Children and their families enjoyed a hamburger/hotdog
buffet and a “make your own”ice cream sundae bar.
eSigns/Digimagination added a special touch the day’s
event with a photo shoot area for family pictures. Partygoers were entertained with face painting, Christmas
crafting stations (Izzie’s Jewels) and the Houston
Aquarium Downtown brought Ruby the two-toed
sloth, Lewis the green-winged macaw, and Andy the
chinchilla for everyone to see. Mingling throughout the
crowd were Clowns and History Live Characters. Special appearances by HPD K9 Mascot, Dynamo Diesel,
and Houston Rockets Power Dancers & Clutch brought smiles to
all. Roly the Clown (courtesy of Victoria Barclay/Best Entertainment) captivated
the children with numerous juggling acts. On the
.
stage, the PAL Dancers kept those in attendance grooving
to the beat.
A very special thank you to Shar & David Levin for
chairing the event. This dynamic duo outdid themselves.
Both Shar and David led a team of volunteers, who
hand-picked and packed age-appropriate toys handed
out by Santa and Mrs. Claus. At the event, both
introduced each family as they entered the ballroom
and were called to the stage for their toy bags. These
unique touches made our families feel welcome and
special.
Toy bags were donated by NCL Wildflowers Spring, Spring Klein 4H Club. Each toy bag had a
handcrafted tag from the members of the NCL
Wildflowers. Along with the above donations, HCC
received donations from Randall’s, PepsiCo and
Borden Dairy Products.
Each table was decorated with coloring books, give-aways and fun items for the families after the party.
Maggie and Don Henderson donated Snicker bars while Whataburger donated cookies
and coupons to those in attendance. Families were also given coupons from James Coney
Island and Taco Cabana upon registration. Sylvia Garza, Salviace Photography, and Liz
Macias, LM Photography, donated their services to capture the memories of the day. This
event would not be the same without the numerous sponsors and volunteers.
Toy Distribution
HCC’s Toy Distribution for the greater Houston community has continued to assist underserved children. This past holiday season, thousands
of toys were distributed to over 14,000 children. Our appreciation
goes out to Sergeant Eric Castillo for his assistance in securing and
organizing the 2015 “Toys for Tots” program. A huge thank you to
H-E-B for once again donating shopping carts which are vital to the
organization of toys. On Friday, the families were entertained by the
Chic-Fil-A mascot and Stafford Middle School Honors Band.
During the two-day distribution, parents “shopped” for toys with each
child in mind. Each day over 150 volunteers provided assistance to these
parents. Without their help and the support of our many sponsors and patrons this
day simply could not happen – we thank you!
All Wrapped Up
Houston Children’s Charity would like to extend a special thank you to the HPD Officers for
securing our Christmas programs. Also, our gratitude has no limits for the over 1,000
volunteers who made all three Christmas programs exceed our wildest dreams. The 2015
Holiday Season created “Christmas Magic” because of you...THANK YOU!
Adopt-A-Family Christ Miracles
T
he enthusiasm and support for this program continues to surpass previous years. In October, generous
people from around the greater Houston area begin
contacting Houston Children’s Charity to help make a
less fortunate family’s holiday brighter.
In 2015, over 433 individuals/corporate sponsors eager
to participate in the program made this another successful year. Thanks to their generosity, 578 families with
1,558 children were blessed with Christmas joy. The
families involved with our Christmas programs were
touched with a giving spirit and toys that bring those
special memories that every child deserves.
Each adopting sponsor purchased toys, housewares,
clothing and/or other items needed by their individual
family. Many families have greater needs for their little
ones than simply toys. Because of our sponsor’s giving
hearts...Christmas miracles do happen!!!
s Department:
ch—Human Recourse
To all Employees of Bir
as part of our
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Brian Packwood, PHR
they have made my kid
HUM AN RES OU RCE
Every year we have the priv
ilege of participating in Ho
uston
Children’s Charity “Adopta-Family” Program. It is the
highlight
of our year to see the surpris
ed and happy faces of the
kids
when they see us bringing
in gifts. This year our kids we
re so
excited about their new bik
es, which of
course we couldn’t wrap, bu
t they had
plenty to unwrap come Ch
ristmas
morning. The little girl was
super sweet
and even made Sherri a Spo
ngeBob
Photo and signed it. We alw
ays walk
away knowing that come
Christmas
morning when they open
their gifts they
will be surprised with what
the Elves of
Brittany Blake Interiors delive
red to them.
Sherri Zucker
BRIT TAN Y BLA KE INTE
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you know that m
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and it
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pe you all have a
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as
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ris
Merry Ch
y Naylor
Best Regards, Cind
HOUSTON CHILDREN’S CHARITY
•
WINTER 2016
•
7
Houston Children’s Charity
Board of Directors
OFFICERS
Tilman J. Fertitta, Chairman of the Board
Penny Loyd, President
Tad Brown, Immediate Past-President
John B. Johnson, Past-President
Grant W. Guthrie, Vice President / Funding Co-Chair
Edna Meyer-Nelson, Vice President / Funding Co-Chair
Donald J Henderson, Secretary
Gary D. Becker, Treasurer
Volunteer Corner
We are always in need of caring volunteers.
We appreciate your support!
Please visit us at www@houstonchildrenscharity.org to register.
Out in the Community
We are always looking to reach more families in need. If you have a
community event that you would like us to attend, please contact us.
Contact us the HCC office at (713) 524-2878 ext. 202 or email us at
develop@houstonchildrenscharity.org.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Laura S. Ward
Stay Connected
DIRECTORS
Rob Ball
Daniel R. D’Armond
Stacy E. Johnson
Melissa H. Juneau
Darla S. Lexington
Randall K. Lowry, Jr.
DeeDee H. Marsh
Robert A. Marsh
Dr. Lois J. Moore
Jeremy A. Newsom
Michael F. Rogers
Dawn Ullrich
www.houstonchildrenscharity.org
230 Westcott
Suite 202
Houston, TX 77007
713-524-2878
U
“O
”
R KIDS ARE
S
EVE
D
I
RY B
ODY’S K
ADVISORY BOARD
J. Downey Bridgwater
Pastor Kirbyjon H. Caldwell
Paul B. Loyd
John L. Nau, III
Robert E. Ogle
Dr. David G. Poplack
David H. Ward
James D. Woods
www.facebook.com/houstonchildrens
twitter.com/HCC_Info
www.linkedin.com/company/houston-children%27s-charity
www.youtube.com/channel/UCdDHJQyYITYiEV7rTVslXdA
2016 Upcoming Events
“A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP”
20TH ANNUAL GALA
(bed distribution) –Every Month (Saturday)
November 5, 2016
(at Hyatt Regency Houston Downtown)
“HCC CLOSET”
Semi-Monthly visits (Tuesday only)
Monthly weekend visit (Saturday only)
CHILDREN’S EASTER PARTY
March 5, 2016
(at Northland Christian School)
“KOOL KIDZ”
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY
December 11, 2016
(at Hyatt Regency Houston Downtown)
ADOPT – A – FAMILY
October - December
Spring - Fall
“BACK 2 SCHOOL”
August 13, 2016
TOY DISTRIBUTION
December 2016