We are in unprecedented times, so forgive us as our activities continue to evolve as we work assessing and meeting community needs while still keeping our staff and clients as healthy as possible.
The safety of our community and team of servant leaders is our top priority, and I want to make sure you are updated and informed on the latest updates as well as steps we are taking internally to ensure risk and exposure is as minimal as possible. We are actively following guidelines set forth by the CDC and County Officials to ensure the health safety of all persons who work, serve and are served in our offices.
The following is a summary of who and how we are currently meeting community needs:
𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐬 (𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝟔𝟐 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐠𝐞):
– Interfaith’s Senior Grocery Delivery will continue on a weekly basis with the ability to add new Seniors to the program, per their request. Seniors can call 832-615-8224 to be added.
– Seniors can continue to receive information and referral resources by calling 281-367-1230.
– Seniors needing financial assistance are able to call Family Services at 281-367-1230.
𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐬:
– Food assistance will be distributed to individuals and families in need by drive-through in parking lot.
– Crisis Assistance (including rent/mortgage, utilities assistance, and gas vouchers) will be provided to families experiencing job/wage loss.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐞 𝐔𝐩 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐩
– The Hand Me Up Shop is closed to customers and donations at this time.
𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫
– ICDC is closed through April 10, following CISD’s COVID-19 response lead. All students are receiving at home learning lessons and activities for the coming weeks.
𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬
– Workforce Solutions Offices are closed to the public but continue to do their great work of helping neighbors find employment by phone. Our Conroe office is available to assist you by calling 936-441-0037.
𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐜
– Our Clinic hours are 8am-2pm, Monday-Thursday. All patients are being triaged over the phone. For medical or dental assistance, please call 281-364-7889.
𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐬:
– All volunteer activities have been suspended to reduce the risk of exposure and encourage our community to stay home to help flatten the curve! We miss you! But look forward to seeing you at Interfaith when we are back to business as usual!
𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: We are actively accepting food donations of: cereal, canned meat, dry pasta, vegetables and fruit, snacks for kids, peanut butter, jelly, meal starters, soups, crackers, toiletries, paper goods including toilet paper and cleaning supplies.
𝐄𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫𝐬: Make a card for a Senior! We are accepting cards for Seniors to help bring sunshine to their day! All cards donated will be delivered to our Senior neighbors during grocery delivery. You can drive through and drop off at our office at 4242 Interfaith Way, The Woodlands, 77381.
I would like to thank each of you, our County Judge Mark Keough, County Commissioner James Noack, Precinct 3 Constable Ryan Gable, The Woodlands Township Chairman Gordy Bunch and Board of Directors, Interfaith’s Board of Directors, Advisors and member congregations for your leadership and support of our mission during this time. May you and yours continue to stay healthy and safe! We look forward to seeing your smiling faces at Interfaith of The Woodlands activities, service opportunities and events once this passes.
As of March 12, 2020, Judge Mark Keough issued a Declaration for Public Health Emergency for Montgomery County as well as an order affecting the Occupancy of Premises throughout Montgomery County for the next 30 days.
The health and safety of our staff, volunteers, clients and overall community is our top priority, and I want to make sure you are informed on the latest updates as well as steps we are taking internally here at Interfaith to ensure minimal risk and exposure as possible while continuing our mission to serve our neighbors in need and build community. We are actively following guidelines set forth by the CDC to ensure the health safety of all persons who work, serve and are served in our offices.
In an abundance of caution, and to minimize traffic in our very public offices, we are implementing the following, for the next 30 days, with an assessment planned on April 1:
All Volunteer groups are cancelled at all Interfaith locations
All volunteer activities will be suspended except at the Hand Me Up Shop which will be restricted to volunteers who are our “regular” volunteers (volunteers who regularly volunteer in the shop, who are under the age of 60 who have not traveled to a flagged area and aren’t an at-risk individual);
All individuals entering all offices will be asked to wash/sanitize their hands;
Any visitor or staff member will be asked to leave the premises if he/she is visibly ill or showing symptoms of illness
Serving our Seniors has been cancelled for March 28.
We will continue to serve Seniors by teleconference and serve families in need through our crisis assistance and through the Interfaith Food Pantry, including serving families currently affected by school closures and senior grocery delivery.
We are continuing to monitor the ongoing communications regarding the coronavirus from the CDC, as well as state and local health and public authorities. All Interfaith buildings have been and continue to be cleaned/sanitized as recommended by the CDC.
Please rest assured, we will continue to serve our community to the best of our ability utilizing staff until this crisis passes for which we hope to see you back at Interfaith serving your community!
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Wednesday, October 9, 2019) — The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence Gala, themed “Twenty Years of Heroes,” was held at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center on Saturday, October 5th.
The 20th annual event, chaired by DeAnn Guidry, was dedicated to honoring the 2019 Hometown Heroes while also celebrating the nearly 130 heroes that have been nominated over the past twenty years. The highly anticipated annual event raises money for crisis assistance in South Montgomery County.
Upon arrival, more than 600 guests entered a beautifully decorated ballroom filled with intricate lighting and ornate floral arrangements. Pianist, George Ruehle, entertained the guests while they enjoyed the silent auction and cocktail reception.
Alex Sutton, Chairman of Interfaith’s Board of Directors, and Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands welcomed guests and celebrated the Honorary Event Chair, Waste Connections, Inc. Interfaith’s service and mission were made evident by each individual who continued to take the podium.
Since 1999, when the original class of 25 Hometown Heroes were honored in celebration of The Woodlands’ 25th Anniversary, Interfaith has recognized outstanding individuals and organizations in the community by presenting them with the title of Hometown Hero. Touching videos played on the screens, reflecting the generosity of the 2019 Hometown Heroes. Each Hero was awarded a medallion, a Congressional Commendation presented by United States Congressman Kevin Brady, and a Senate Proclamation from Texas State Senator Brandon Creighton. The Hometown Heroes for 2019 are: Jerissa Belsha, MD, Mary-Lou E. Fitch, Stephen C. Head, Ph.D., Alex Sutton, Josh Urban, Market Street The Woodlands, and Leadership Montgomery County.
The event offered a fantastic live auction and fund-a-need opportunities that featured numerous luxurious experiences including a VIP trip to Disney, naming rights to the longest pedestrian bridge in The Woodlands Town Center, SEWELL for all Seasons, and various other unique items. Thomas Markle Jewelers provided a Tudor watch that one lucky winner was able to claim in the raffle.
Interfaith typically serves over 1,500 clients in crisis monthly, with those numbers expected to increase as the Holiday Season approaches. Gala guests were among the first to view a video testimony from a client who fell on hard times and utilized the many programs and services at Interfaith to help her and her children get back on their feet. The impact of this storytelling was felt throughout the room as attendees were asked to lend their support.
“We are so grateful to live in a community that shows up to celebrate and support each other,” says Herndon. “For 46 years Interfaith has walked alongside our neighbors in crisis. No matter the magnitude, we step in to help families rebuild. Being able to offer hope in the midst of devastation is only possible through the generous donations we are blessed to receive. We are forever grateful to our donors.”
Interfaith of The Woodlands is a nonprofit social service agency providing programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands and the surrounding area. Interfaith provides basic needs assistance and special programs to families experiencing a financial crisis, and supportive service through care and wellness programs to senior adults 62 and over, in addition to many community programs dedicated to improving the lives of individuals in need. For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services or to become a volunteer, please visit woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Thursday, September 4, 2019) — With the start of the 2019–2020 school year, Interfaith of The Woodlands served a total of over 2,300 local students as part of their 35th annual Kits 4 Kidz school supplies assistance program. In addition to the required school supply kits, children also received a new backpack and a voucher for a back-to-school outfit to use at the Interfaith Hand Me Up Shop. The efforts of Interfaith and its donors ensure that every child has the necessary tools for a successful school year.
Interfaith provided school supplies to students attending 42 local schools ranging from pre-k to high school! “School supply packs can be very expensive, I don’t know what I would have done for my kids if it wasn’t for Interfaith’s school supply program,” an Interfaith Client shared with one of Interfaith’s Program Coordinators in the Family Services department.
Interfaith’s President and CEO, Missy Herndon, says she was honored to serve these children. “Because of the generosity of our community through school supply and monetary donations, local children will be able to start school on the same level as their peers,” she says. “The smiles on the children’s faces say it all. Once again, our community stepped up to help their neighbors in need. We are very thankful for the many Interfaith volunteers and donors who played an integral role in the success of this program.”
Interfaith of The Woodlands is a nonprofit social service agency providing programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands and the surrounding area. Interfaith provides basic needs assistance and special programs to those experiencing a financial crisis, no matter their socioeconomic level, and supportive service through care and wellness programs to senior adults 62 and over. For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services or to become a volunteer, please visit woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
Interfaith is excited to announce the selection of the 2019 Hometown Heroes. The tradition of Hometown Heroes began in 1999, in celebration of The Woodlands 25th Anniversary. This year five individuals, one business and one non-profit organization have been named to the list of distinguished Hometown Heroes.
2019’s Hometown Heroes are Jerissa Belsha, MD, Mary-Lou E. Fitch, Stephen C. Head, PhD., Alex Sutton, Josh Urban, Leadership Montgomery County, and Market Street The Woodlands. These honorees will be recognized for their many contributions to the community at The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence Gala, which benefits the many community programs of Interfaith of The Woodlands. The theme this year is “20 Years of Heroes” commemorating the nearly 140 Heroes that have been awarded since the program’s inception.
Celebration of Excellence Gala will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2019 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center. In honor of their long-standing and generous support of the community, Interfaith has selected Waste Connections, Inc. as the Honorary Event Chair to receive special recognition during this season of celebration. The gala is being chaired by long-time supporter DeAnn Guidry, who was raised in the area and lives in The Woodlands with her husband and three children. In addition to honoring the Hometown Heroes, the event includes dinner, live and silent auctions items and a lively after-party.
Each year, the community nominates individuals and corporations to be considered for the coveted Hometown Hero honor. Heroes are chosen by a selection committee composed of Hometown Heroes alumni, which includes over 130 local residents and 15 area businesses that have contributed to the educational, civic, cultural and spiritual fabric of the community.
In response to the overwhelming number of nonprofit organizations nominated in 2017, the selection committee decided to create a new nonprofit category highlighting philanthropic efforts in the community.
“Honoring Hometown Heroes is a treasured tradition that celebrates the amazing individuals, businesses and organizations that continue to enrich our community with numerous contributions. Each honoree’s incredible generosity and dedication have made a lasting impact that will inspire generations to come,” shared Missy Herndon, President & CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
Criteria for the selection of the Hometown Heroes includes but is not limited to the following: serving as a positive role model, having a history of volunteerism, sacrificing personal gain to achieve noble goals, exhibiting leadership and courage and embodying the values of The Woodlands community. The Woodlands prides itself on having a dedication to public service and recognizing the importance of family, education, arts, culture and environmental consciousness.
The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence, honoring Hometown Heroes, is the largest annual fundraiser for Interfaith of The Woodlands. The event is sponsored by local businesses and organizations. For sponsorship or underwriting opportunities, contact Carolyn Donovan, Interfaith’s Director of Development, at cdonovan@woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 832-615-8225. Sponsorships and individual tickets are available.
In 2017, The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence Gala Committee debuted its Hometown Heroes Giving Circle, which allows individuals and businesses to make donations in honor of specific Hometown Heroes, as a way to pay tribute to their incredible commitments to serving the community. Donations to the Hometown Heroes Giving Circle will be directed to Interfaith of The Woodlands to help individuals and families in crisis through financial assistance for rent, mortgage, utilities, gasoline, prescription drug assistance, emergency shelter, food, clothing, senior programs, counseling, job training and child care. Interfaith of The Woodlands exists to build a more loving and caring community through service. To honor a hero, go to hometownheroesgala.org or call 832-615-8225.THIS YEAR’S HOMETOWN HEROES
Jerissa Belsha, MD
Dr. Jerissa Belsha is a native Texan, born in Lockhart, Texas to a loving family where her parents worked as a school teacher and principal for the local elementary school. After graduating high school as valedictorian, she went on to attend Texas A&M University, graduating first in her class with a Biomedical Science degree. She completed her medical degree and pediatric residency at the University of Texas at Houston, where she was awarded Intern of the Year and served as Chief Resident. During her medical training, she was able to volunteer with World Medical Missions in Papua New Guinea, serve at HIV clinics in Botswana and Romania and gain valuable experience through a medical internship in Beijing, China.
After residency, Dr. Belsha joined a pediatric hospitalist group caring for newborns and sick children in north Houston hospitals. In 2015, she joined the local practice called Agape Physicians and has been caring for the children of The Woodlands community ever since.
Dr. Belsha has been described by her friends as a “quiet leader.” Her reach among charitable causes is considerable throughout the greater Houston area. Each year, she coordinates a group of 20 women to put together over 200 stockings for Houston’s Little Footprints program. To benefit Love Fosters Hope, Jerissa helps organize a family field day to benefit foster children within the organization and along with her husband, mentored two teenagers, helping to fulfill a need in their lives for parental figures. She is an active volunteer for many area charities including Interfaith, The Will Herndon Research Fund, Love Fosters Hope, Giving Goes Glam, Free the Captives, Montgomery County Food Bank and A Dress for Barbara.
Outside of The Woodlands, Jerissa has a passion to help others and served as a physician on numerous medical mission trips to Honduras and Costa Rica through The Woodlands United Methodist Church. In her most recent mission trip this past spring, she encouraged several friends to join her where they were able to serve over 700 patients in the course of three days. Her love of others is evident in all she does within her medical practice, throughout the community and most importantly with her family; husband, Thomas and their two children, Emma and Logan. Residents of The Woodlands since 2010, The Belsha Family embodies the spirit of giving. Mary-Lou E. Fitch
Mary-Lou Fitch arrived in The Woodlands in 1989 and hasn’t stopped working in support of the community ever since. She tirelessly gives of herself to many charitable organizations and projects, all the while managing a household of four very active daughters. In the years since, those young girls have gone forward to build lives and careers of their own, giving Mary-Lou many reasons to travel to visit them and her six grandchildren. Even so, her heart for the community is stronger than ever. She is still a very active volunteer for many groups.
“Mary-Lou Fitch has proven herself time and again to have the biggest heart for our area youth,” said John Bracken, former Executive Director for Montgomery County Youth Services. “She has served as a former Board Member, supports our Holiday Project at Christmas, is a member of our Advancement Committee, Ladies Night Out and The Woodlands Golf Classic and Gala Committees. She fixes dinner for our Bridgeway Shelter kids while attending Panther Creek Inspiration Ranch on Wednesday evenings and hosts multiple events at her home throughout the year for various MCYS functions.”
Mary-Lou was instrumental in forming many organizations within The Woodlands including Class Act Productions, Grogan’s Point Residents’ Association and The Woodlands Orchestra. Mary Lou has been an active volunteer with a number of local groups, including Meals on Wheels, The Woodlands Pavilion Partners Wine Dinner, Cypress Woodlands Junior Forum, National Charity League – The Woodlands Chapter, and CASA. She has served on The Planning Committee for The Celebration of Excellence Gala since inception and regularly volunteers for Interfaith of The Woodlands driving senior neighbors to their medical appointments. She has served as a room mom countless times while her daughters were in elementary school, while also taking on many leadership positions within their various schools’ Parent Teacher Organizations.
Most recently, Mary-Lou joined the American Heart Association’s Circle of Red, volunteering for their Go Red Luncheon. She is also a member of The Montgomery County Republican Women and has served on their board as Vice President of fundraising. She loves her community and is always willing to help out, hosting many fundraisers and events in her home. She has called The Woodlands her home since 1987 and doesn’t plan on slowing down any time soon, adding to her 30 years of volunteering and service.
Stephen C. Head, PhD.
Stephen C. Head, Ph.D. became the fourth chancellor of Lone Star College (LSC) in 2014 after thirty years of service to LSC. Located in the north Houston metropolitan area, LSC is one of the largest community colleges in the nation. His priorities are student access, equality, success and completion; academic quality; workforce programs in alignment with community needs; and collaborative agreements with educational, business, civic and charitable organizations. He views the college as a critical contributor to the social, cultural and economic well-being of the community. His values include operating the college on a sound, fiscally conservative model based on data, efficiencies, accountability and common sense. He emphasizes transparency, ethical behavior and a culture of high expectations and achievement. Dr. Head is active in a number of local, state and national organizations that support the community college mission.
Dr. Head and his wife, Linda, both work at Lone Star College and reside in The Woodlands. They have four successful children and three grandchildren. Alex Sutton
Alex serves as Co-President of The Woodlands Development Company. He holds Bachelor and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering from Rice University and a Master’s in Business Administration from The University of Houston. He is a Licensed Professional Engineer and a Certified Public Accountant. His responsibilities primarily focus on project and land development and commercial activities. He joined The Woodlands in 1994.
Prior to joining The Woodlands, Alex was a shareholder with Pate Engineers, where he managed a number of complex projects for municipal and private clients, focusing on water resources, transportation and land development matters. Earlier, he held a number of professional and technical positions of progressive responsibilities with Exxon. He has authored a number of technical papers and articles and holds two patents for computer-aided management approaches to managing public works systems.
His civic and industry involvement includes service as a Chairman of the North Houston Association , Director and Vice Chairman, Interfaith of The Woodlands, Director, The Montgomery County Foundation, Director, The Woodlands Economic Development Partnership, Director and Former Chairman of Montgomery County Youth Services, Former Director and Secretary, The Woodlands Township, and he is a Member of the Urban Land Institute.
Alex and his wife Sharon live in The Woodlands Town Center, are members of The Woodlands United Methodist Church and have six grandchildren, four of whom reside in The Woodlands.
Josh Urban
Josh Urban moved to The Woodlands in 1994 with his family. An avid runner, there was not a week that went by that most people would not see Josh and his brother, Gabe, running throughout The Woodlands on their daily long runs. This commitment led Josh to finish 2nd in the Houston Marathon, with his brother not far behind.
Urban began his tenure with Memorial Hermann in 2000 as an administrative fellow reporting to Dan Wolterman, former President and CEO of Memorial Hermann Health System. From there, he went on to Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center, working his way up from Director of Hospital Operations to Chief Ambulatory Services Officer. In 2008, Urban joined Memorial Hermann The Woodlands as Chief Operating Officer under now retired CEO Steve Sanders. Just five years later, he assumed the position of CEO. In that time, he has managed expansion and renovation projects in excess of $250 million and led the hospital’s pursuit of Level II Trauma designation. In addition, Urban has been instrumental in creating a culture of excellence, which has been recognized nationally in the areas of quality, patient safety and patient satisfaction. Under his direction, Memorial Hermann is the third largest employer in Montgomery County, with over 2,500 employees in the community.
An IRONMAN himself, Josh was a major influencer in bringing the Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Texas event to The Woodlands which has generated revenue close to $14 million for The Woodlands community during each of the last nine years.
A 2011 graduate of Leadership Montgomery County, Urban currently serves on the boards of multiple business and civic organizations, including The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership and Interfaith of the Woodlands. He resides in The Woodlands with his wife and son. In his spare time, he enjoys running, fishing, hunting and travel.
Market Street The Woodlands
Market Street The Woodlands, established in 2004, has been providing The Woodlands a center for an exquisite shopping experience, a variety of fine dining establishments, a movie theater and green space where visitors can relax and enjoy the company of others. In these 15 years, they have become the go-to destination for retail therapy, as well as community events.
Market Street has committed themselves to The Woodlands community in many ways. They lend their support to dozens of area non-profit organizations; not only with sponsorships dollars, but also by encouraging their employees to serve on their boards and various committees. Additionally, Market Street is known to connect their tenants with charitable organizations, helping to raise awareness of local causes and increase philanthropic support.
Their Change for Charity program selects one non-profit organization for each quarter of the year as the beneficiary of the coins collected through the street parking meters. Since the program began, customer donations have exceeded $200,000.
Their Central Park area features a green space, performance stage and splash pad, giving families and visitors a beautiful place to gather. This area is also home to many events Market Street produces including their Spring and Fall Concert Series, Spring Fine Arts Show, Holiday Tree Lighting and Grand Chanukah Celebration. They have also generously hosted local events such as The Woodlands 4th of July Parade, The Woodlands’ Car Club Cars & Coffee For a Cause, the annual HEB Wine Walk, Cultural & Heritage Festival, Ten 4 Texas Road Race, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk, which bring hundreds of people together for fellowship and comradery.
Leadership Montgomery County
Leadership Montgomery County (LMC) is dedicated to developing and enhancing the current and future leaders of Montgomery County by preparing emerging and existing leaders to understand local issues, grow their leadership skills, and connect with others to better serve Montgomery County.
LMC’s core program is a class of business and community leaders that spans nine months between September and May. Throughout this time, participants learn through sessions on Infrastructure, Education, Government, Public Safety, Economic Development, Healthcare, Serving Our Community and Leadership Development. The LMC program promotes knowledge, awareness and insight into our community, providing an educational forum and leadership development opportunities for participants.
Leadership Montgomery County originally began as Leadership Conroe, launched in 1987 through the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce. In 1995, through a collaboration with The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, the program evolved into Leadership Montgomery County. Since that time the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber, the Greater Magnolia Parkway Chamber, the Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber, and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce have also become partner chambers, as LMC transitioned into a nonprofit of its own. True to its original mission, LMC has been shaping strong leaders throughout the community, producing more than 850 graduates during the past 32 years.
LMC graduates continue to grow as leaders through alumni lifetime learning offerings including educational programs, social activities, and opportunities to give back. LMC alumni can be found throughout the community serving as nonprofit board members, political leaders, CEOs, and much more.
Interfaith is excited to announce the selection of the 2019 Five Who Share Service of Excellence Award recipients. This annual tradition honors outstanding volunteerism. The five recipients have demonstrated an investment to our community and give selflessly to others. Their tireless works affect positive and compassionate change, inspiring others to contribute to those in need.
The 2019 Five Who Share Service of Excellence Award recipients are Ky Bishop, Paula F. Odom, Ian J. Ramirez, Shirelle Chimenti, and Anne Swetich. These amazing individuals will be recognized for their many contributions to the community at The Five Who Share Awards Breakfast, which benefits the many community programs of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
The 2019 Five Who Share Awards Breakfast will begin at 7:30 am on Friday, August 23, 2019 at The Woodlands Country Club in the Legacy Ballroom. In honor of their long-standing and generous support of the community, Interfaith has selected Waste Connections, Inc. as the Corporate Honoree. In addition to honoring the award recipients, the event includes a coffee bar, a raffle, and a breakfast.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our organization. These individuals work tirelessly in our community to lead outreach efforts and directly impact the families and seniors we serve through hands-on initiatives and programs. We are so grateful for their service,” shared Missy Herndon, President & CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
Criteria for the selection of the Five Who Share recipients includes but is not limited to the following: demonstrates commitment and dedication to the South Montgomery County community, is a positive role model in our community, provides leadership to their peers, improves lives and/or community conditions through their service, enriches the lives of others, while asking nothing in return and performs volunteer work in Interfaith’s service area of North Harris and South Montgomery Counties.
The Woodlands Five Who Share Awards Breakfast, honoring Service of Excellence award recipients, is an annual fundraiser for Interfaith of The Woodlands. The event is sponsored by local businesses and organizations. For further inquiries, tickets, and sponsorships visit https://wdlndsif.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/2019FiveWhoShareBreakfast/tabid/1058628/Default.aspx. To contact Carolyn Donovan, Interfaith’s Director of Development, email cdonovan@woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 832-615-8225.
Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, presents the Five Who Share Service of Excellence Award to Ky Bishop
Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, presents the Five Who Share Service of Excellence Award to Paula F. Odom
Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, presents the Five Who Share Service of Excellence Award to Ian J. Ramirez
Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, presents the Five Who Share Service of Excellence Award to Shirelle Chimenti
THE WOODLANDS, TX, (Wednesday, June 19, 2019) — Interfaith of The Woodlands kicked off their annual school supply assistance program, Kits 4 Kidz, providing local CISD students with grade and school specific supplies to begin the 2019 school year. Additionally, each child will also receive a new backpack, and a voucher to The Hand Me Up Shop for a back-to-school outfit.
Each summer, hundreds of local families in crisis come to Interfaith to place their grade-and school-specific order for the upcoming school year. These school supplies packs are the same as what these students’ peers receive from their local PTOs. This ensures all children, despite their economic challenges at home, will have the same tools to be as successful as their neighbors. For families who miss the order deadline, miscellaneous supplies provided through community-wide school supplies drives will be available for pick-up at Interfaith in August.
With Interfaith’s Kits 4 Kidz program expecting to serve over 2,000 children this year, Interfaith is encouraging the community to organize school supply and backpack drives to meet the growing need. Kicking off the annual school supply drives, Sewell Audi and Infinity are hosting “Stuff the Audi” and “Stuff the Infinity” drives which will begin on July 1st. Customers, employees, and the general public are encouraged to drop off school supplies in their showroom, at Interfaith, at all participating business and retail, and at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital. All businesses and organizations are invited to host a supplies and backpack drive to help assist Interfaith in serving all families in need. A complete list of school supplies can be found on woodlandsinterfaith.org. Distribution is in early August for students attending Conroe Independent School District schools located in South Montgomery County.
“We are grateful for the support of Sewell Audi and Infinity North Houston and encourage other businesses, individuals and organizations to get involved as well. Every child deserves to start the school year prepared with the essential tools that will help them succeed. Having the same supplies as their peers makes an enormous difference in a child’s educational experience,” shared Missy Herndon, President & CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands. “Every year, thanks to the generosity of our community, Interfaith is able to serve every family that walks through our doors expressing need. We are grateful to our community partners who collect supplies and backpacks to help us meet this growing need,” she said.
Interfaith of The Woodlands is a non-profit social service agency providing numerous programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands and the surrounding area. Interfaith provides basic assistance and special programs to families experiencing a financial crisis, and supportive service through care and wellness programs for senior adults 62 and over, in addition to many community programs dedicated to improving the lives of individuals in need. For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services, to become a volunteer, or to receive school supplies please visit: woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Friday, June 14, 2019) — Interfaith of The Woodlands recently received a generous donation from Waste Connections, Inc., as a beneficiary of their 11th annual Golf Classic for Kids held at Golf Trails of The Woodlands. Interfaith received $100,000 to continue our legacy of caring for those in need throughout South Montgomery County.
Interfaith of The Woodlands was honored to be among the 10 charities that benefited from the event, which raised a record-breaking amount that exceeded $1,000,000. The Waste Connections leadership team welcomed guests the first evening at a reception which featured basketball on the big screens, fun competitive games and a poker tournament. The Woodlands High School orchestra and choir welcomed players and guests to the golf course the day of the event where special guests Roger Clemens, Dan Pastorini, Josh Beckett and Bronson Burgon were on hand to visit with attendees. For the non-golfers, an encore VIP Poker Tournament was also held on the grounds and included professional poker player Erin Ness.
Waste Connections has raised well over $4,000,000 for charities since this event came to The Woodlands in 2012. “Since their arrival in The Woodlands, Waste Connections has been a valued partner of Interfaith,” remarked Missy Herndon, Interfaith’s President and CEO. “Their servant leadership and dedication to our mission allows us to serve the thousands of individuals, families and seniors throughout our shared community. We are truly grateful for their continued support.”
Waste Connections, Inc. is an integrated solid waste services company that provides waste collection, transfer, disposal and recycling services in mostly exclusive and secondary markets. Waste Connections serves more than six million residential, commercial, industrial, exploration and production customers from a network of operations in 41 states. The company also provides intermodal services for the movement of cargo and solid waste containers in the Pacific Northwest. Waste Connections, Inc. was founded in September 1997 and is headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas.
Interfaith of The Woodlands is a nonprofit social service agency providing numerous programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands and the surrounding area. Interfaith provides basic needs assistance and special programs like school supplies assistance and holiday gifts to those experiencing a financial crisis, no matter their socioeconomic level, and supportive service through care and wellness programs to senior adults 62 and over. For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services or to become a volunteer, please visit woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
The Woodlands, TX (Wednesday, March 6, 2019) – In 1974, Interfaith’s first program was created when Reverend Don Gebert visited and interviewed families living in The Woodlands to create the first Woodlands Directory. Today, Interfaith continues to publish the award-winning Interfaith of The Woodlands Community and Business Directory. Over 40,000 directories are distributed each August to area residents and businesses. What started as 4 mimeographed pages has grown into a printed and a multiple media resource for the community with over 500 advertising partners.
Just like 45 years ago, the Directory has documented – first in print and today in print and online – the growth of The Woodlands community, as well as served as a guide to both the residents and locally owned businesses of our area.
“The Interfaith Directory stays steadfast in its 45-year-old mission to not only be the premier print and online resource to The Woodlands community, but to generate revenue for our many programs and services,” said Missy Herndon, Interfaith of the Woodlands President and CEO.
Between its first and last page, The Woodlands Community and Business Directorycontinue its purpose of connecting residents of all generations while simultaneously helping others in need through revenue dollars generated through advertising partnerships to fund Interfaith’s many programs and services.
Interfaith of The WoodlandsCommunity and Business Directoryis published annually by Interfaith of The Woodlands. Interfaith of The Woodlands is a nonprofit social service agency providing numerous programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands and the surrounding area since 1973. For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services or information on The Woodlands Community and Business Directory, please visit woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
Cutline: VP of Programs, Lucy Gomez, Interfaith President and CEO Missy Herndon, Publications Manager Cathy Mogler
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Thursday, February 21, 2019) — Interfaith of The Woodlands and Junior League of The Woodlands are pleased to announce the highly anticipated Community Models for Giving Goes Glam 2019.
The 8thAnnual Fashion Show and Luncheon, presented by CHI St. Luke’s Health, will be held at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center on Friday, April 5, 2019. Chaired by Nicole Murphy and Emily Wilcox, this event raises critical funds for community outreach efforts.
Perisha Burnham, Stacey Fontenot, and Bobbi Jo Miller will walk the runway representing Junior League of The Woodlands. “Each model has deep ties within this community, working tirelessly to support our programs. Because of these efforts, they were awarded as our 2018 outstanding active member, provisional member and sustaining member, respectively. We are deeply grateful for their dedication to the Junior League,” commented Jennifer Colerick, Junior League of The Woodlands’ President.
Representing Interfaith of The Woodlands are Debbie Sukin, Ty Tillman and Amy Torres; each having volunteered for Interfaith in a variety of roles for many years. “At the heart of Interfaith are our volunteers, and each of our models has shown a deep commitment to our mission of serving this community. Whether it be serving on our board, fundraising or volunteering for our programs, these women give selflessly time and time again.” shared Missy Herndon, Interfaith of The Woodlands’ President & CEO.
The event includes a New York-style runway show highlighting fashion provided by Saks Fifth Avenue, live entertainment, a chance to win a shopping spree at Market Street The Woodlands, and silent and live auctions. The perfect combination of fashion, philanthropy, and friendship, Giving Goes Glam’s proceeds benefit the missions of both organizations, supporting programs and services for the South Montgomery County community.
For sponsorship opportunities or further event details, please visit givinggoesglam.org or contact Carolyn Donovan, Interfaith of the Woodlands’ Director of Development, at development@woodlandsinterfaith.org or 832-615-8225.
Interfaith of The Woodlands is a nonprofit social service agency celebrating its 45th year of providing numerous programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands community and surrounding area. For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services or to become a volunteer, please visit woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
The Junior League of The Woodlands is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. For information on The Junior League of The Woodlands, please visit jlthewoodlands.org or call 281-376-5754.
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Photo 1 Cutline: Top Row (l-r) Debbie Sukin, Missy Herndon, Perisha Burnham, Ty Tillman, Stacey Fontenot, Jennifer Colerick. Row 2 (l-r) Amy Torres, Emily Wilcox, Nicole Murphy, and Bobbi Jo Miller. Photo Courtesy: Mindy Harmon Photography
