THE WOODLANDS, TX (Wednesday, January 2, 2018) – Interfaith of The Woodlands elected four new distinguished individuals to serve on the 2019 Interfaith Board of Directors. Rob Johnson, 2018 Board Chairman of Interfaith of The Woodlands, announced the recent appointments of Father Tom Rafferty, Pastor Rodney Mills, Kerrie Guerrero and Jim Parisi to the Board.
“I’m humbled and honored to have these amazing, thoughtful leaders serve on our Board of Directors. These individuals were selected not only based upon their professional backgrounds, but also for their commitment to serving others and our community,” said Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
“The knowledge and vision that each Board Member contributes are invaluable to Interfaith of The Woodlands.I welcome each new member to the Board and thank them for their service,” said Rob Johnson, 2018 Chair of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
Composed of 27 members, the Interfaith Board of Directors paid special thanks to the outgoing Board Members, Dr. Ed Robb, Dr. Stephen Head, Pastor Steve Bradley and Dr. Bruce Webb, for their past service and welcomed 2019 Board Chairman Alex Sutton. “We would also like to thank outgoing Chairman Rob Johnson for his leadership and continued support of Interfaith,” remarked Miss Herndon. “He is an incredible servant leader and been an unbelievable asset to our mission, and it was our pleasure to follow his lead and learn from his example.”
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 to become a volunteer, please visit woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
(l-r) Pastor Rodney Mills, Kerrie Guerrero, and Jim Parisi, incoming Interfaith Board Incoming Board Members. Not Pictured: Father Tom Raferty
Outgoing Chairman, Rob Johnson, Incoming Chairman, Alex Sutton, President and CEO Missy Herndon
THE WOODLANDS, TX (November 21, 2018) — Interfaith of The Woodlands and Junior League of The Woodlands are pleased to announce CHI St. Luke’s Health as the Presenting Sponsor for the 2019 Giving Goes Glam Fashion Show and Luncheon, as well as Event Chairs Nicole Murphy and Emily Wilcox. The highly anticipated 8th annual event will be held at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center on Friday, April 5, 2019.
“Nicole and Emily are both deeply entrenched within this community, sharing their time and talent with many philanthropic endeavors. We are thrilled that they will be lending their expertise to Giving Goes Glam, leading an energetic and creative committee of 50 volunteers. This year is certain to be an event to remember, whose far-reaching effects will be making a difference in the lives of many families, seniors, women and children in need,” said Jennifer Colerick, Junior League of The Woodlands’ President.
The event will include a New York–style runway show highlighting fashion provided by Saks Fifth Avenue. The perfect combination of fashion, philanthropy and friendship, Giving Goes Glam’s proceeds benefit the missions of both organizations, providing programs and services for the South Montgomery County community.
“JLTW shares our commitment of service to our neighbors by providing assistance programs, educational outreach and general support for organizations, families and individuals,” shared Missy Herndon, Interfaith of The Woodlands’ President & CEO. “The heart and dedication from both groups is what drives the success of this event year after year. Since 2012, we have raised over $1.4 million, which goes directly to those that need a helping hand. We are truly grateful for the outpouring of support we receive from our donors who make this possible, and to CHI St. Luke’s Health The Woodlands for their ongoing commitment to both organizations.”
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
(l-r) Nicole Murphy and Emily Wilcox, Event Chairs of Giving Goes Glam; Jim Parisi, President of CHI St. Luke’s The Woodlands; Diane Pardew Freeman, VP and CNO of CHI St. Luke’s The Woodlands; and Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
Event Chairs, Emily Wilcox (left) and Nicole Murphy (right), at Saks Fifth Avenue in preparation for the New York–style runway show at Giving Goes Glam.
THE WOODLANDS, TX, (Monday, November 19, 2018) — Interfaith of The Woodlands recently hosted their annual Thanksgiving Feast for Senior Adults at the South County Community Center. There were 120 seniors in attendance who enjoyed a traditional holiday feast served by Commissioner James Noack (pictured above), Interfaith staff and volunteers.
“Our annual Thanksgiving Feast is one way that we can make a tremendous impact in the lives of Senior Adults,” said Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands. “We can give the gift of food, fellowship and friendship thanks to our wonderful community that supports Interfaith’s mission of building a more loving and caring community through service.”
Alex Sutton, Vice-Chair of Interfaith’s Board of Directors, kicked off the feast, and Commissioner James Noack delivered the pledge. A highlight of the luncheon was a special performance by the Transition to Kindergarten students from Interfaith Child Development Center, who entertained the Senior Adults with Thanksgiving-themed songs and dances.
“Interfaith offers programs and services to support this community year round, whether it’s serving a holiday meal to our senior adults or providing basic needs to local families who need help,” said Lucy Gomez, Vice President of Programs. “The Thanksgiving Feast kicks off a wonderful season of giving and caring each year.”
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.
Pictured: Missy Herndon, President and CEO or Interfaith of The Woodlands, shares a moment with the Senior Adults while serving the Thanksgiving Feast.
Pictured: Senior Adults enjoy food and fellowship at the Thanksgiving Feast, served by Interfaith staff and volunteers and hosted at the South County Community Center.
The Woodlands, TX (Wednesday, October 24, 2018) — As the Holiday Season quickly approaches, Interfaith of The Woodlands is preparing to serve families and seniors in crisis through their annual Holiday GIVING programs. “Each year, nearly 6,000 individuals depend on Interfaith during the holidays,” says Missy Herndon, Interfaith President and CEO. “These are families who work hard, but just need extra help. Providing assistance to all in need has been a long-standing tradition at Interfaith for over 45 years. We are blessed that our community has continued to support these efforts through serving, donating and volunteering.”
Interfaith’s Holiday GIVING programs rely on community generosity to be able to serve others, each program offering a unique way to get involved. The Holiday GIVING programs include Adopt-a-Family, Holiday Toy Drive, and Gifts for Seniors. The Adopt-a-Family program provides requested gifts to families who have been adopted by local community members. The Holiday Toy Drive offers businesses and individuals an opportunity to collect toys and gifts for children of all ages. Families requesting assistance are able to choose items for their children from the incredible assortment of donated toys, which are set up at The Woodlands Fire Department central location on Grogan’s Mill Dr. New toy donations are being accepted at the Interfaith office, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., beginning Monday, November 26.
Gifts for Seniors provides gifts to senior neighbors who are in need or alone for the holidays. Various volunteer groups hand-deliver these gifts. The culmination and highpoint of the GIVING program for seniors is the annual Holiday GIVING Dinner, with Carols by Candlelight, where over 400 senior adults come together to share a meal and participate in caroling and other festive activities.
Additionally, all individuals and families enrolled also receive food from the Interfaith Food Pantry to prepare a holiday meal and a clothing voucher from the Hand Me Up Shop for winter clothes.
Businesses, organizations and individuals will all have the opportunity to come together to donate time, food and gifts. Interfaith invites everyone to help their neighbors, as even the smallest gift or donation makes a difference during the holidays for families in crisis. Additionally, Interfaith is thankful to Waste Connections for their commitment to donating bikes once again from their annual Bike Build.
Lucy Gomez, VP of Programs, shares, “We are looking forward to the Holiday GIVING Program once again this year. The families and seniors light up with appreciation. This community has always shown such commitment to giving, and we believe they will again this year. Due to their generosity, together we will be able to meet the needs of families and seniors this holiday season.”
To learn more about Interfaith of The Woodlands and how to get involved and help support their Holiday GIVING and other programs, visit woodlandsinterfaith.org/holidaygiving
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.
Collection of toys and gifts for children of all ages.
Senior adults enjoy a holiday-themed meal served by volunteer Lorrie Parise of Howard Hughes Corp.
Waste Connections donated much-needed bikes to families for the Holiday GIVING 2017 Toy Drive.
Workforce Solutions just celebrated the grand opening of its new location just off the Katy Freeway at Highway 99. It moved from Katy Mills Mall.
It’s one of 24 full-time offices you can visit to get any kind of help related to jobs.
Workforce Solutions will help you find a job, rebuild your resume, and provide different workshops.
Client Stephen Adams says the organization helped him land his job at Reliant Energy.
“I will tell you one of the first things they introduced me to was polishing up my resume. They showed me there were options where I can capitalize on the experiences I had before. That really made me feel kind of empowered and gave me the sense that I could do a lot of things,” Adams said.
Workforce Solutions is also helping high school students looking to break into the job market and will provide information about two-year and four-year colleges.
“We serve the 13 county Houston/Galveston region. Much like the public library or public school system, our resources are available at no cost. We are here to serve the public. Our job is to help employers build a better workforce and help people build careers,” Workforce Solutions manager Michelle Castro said.
Last year, Workforce Solutions helped place more than 200,000 people into jobs.
Next week, they will open another location in the East End, bringing the total number to 25 full-time locations and 10 part-time locations you can visit to get some extra help all for free.
The Woodlands, TX (Friday, September 7, 2018) — The Board of Directors for Interfaith of The Woodlands and Interfaith Community Clinic are pleased to announce the appointments of Holly Mayer, Director of Programs and Services, and Carolyn Donovan, Director of Development. Both women bring a combined total of over 30 years of service and nonprofit experience to the Senior Leadership team that will lead Interfaith as it moves into its 45th year of serving South Montgomery County.
“Holly and Carolyn join a group of dedicated and experienced leaders who are committed to Interfaith’s mission and the leading of over 350 employees and the many communities we serve,” said President and CEO, Missy Herndon. “A leader at Interfaith is asked to not just come to work; they are asked to focus on serving the people of our community, and for our team, that is a passion. This is a calling and I am grateful that both of these amazing women answered the call.”
Holly Mayer is Interfaith’s Director of Programs and Services, a position that was previously filled by Lucy Gomez, who was promoted to Vice President of Programs in May. Mayer has served at Interfaith for six years working as Volunteer Manager and on the Senior Services team, positions that required her to expertly cultivate relationships and resources in order to best serve the needs of both those serving and those being served. During her time at Interfaith, Mayer worked with all programs requiring volunteer resources and was instrumental in the organizing of the over 12,000 volunteers during Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. Her many years of nonprofit management and experience give her the ideal perspective to take on the role of Director of Programs and Services.
Mayer has lived in The Woodlands since 1992 with her husband and three children. Prior to coming to Interfaith, she served for many community, church, and school committees and was named a Montgomery County Woman of Distinction in 2008. She has served as a Board Member of NOAH (The National Organization of Albinism and Hypopigmentation), as President of National Charity League The Woodlands Chapter and currently serves on the Board for The Woodlands Lions Club.
Mayer says, “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving The Woodlands in this new role. My years at Interfaith have deepened my commitment to the programs and services that Interfaith offers and how they change the lives of local people.”
Carolyn Donovan joins Interfaith of The Woodlands with a wealth of nonprofit management experience spanning a 17-year career working with educational, healthcare and social service organizations. Her track record of successful strategic planning, program development and donor cultivation has prepared her well to lead Interfaith’s Development efforts. From working on capital campaigns to leading annual events and fundraising efforts, Carolyn’s emphasis has always been on connecting donors with the mission of the organization.
Donovan says, “I am honored and humbled to be a part of the team responsible for carrying on Interfaith of The Woodlands’ 45-year legacy of helping our neighbors in need. In my short time with the organization, I have seen first-hand how lives in crisis became lives blessed with assistance and hope for a brighter tomorrow. Our loyal donors make miracles happen every day and I am thrilled to work alongside them, continuing the tradition.”
Prior to joining Interfaith, Carolyn served as a Corporate Market Director with the American Heart Association and as Development Manager for Beyond Batten Disease Foundation. A member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Carolyn and her family have lived in The Woodlands for ten years.
In regards to these new additions to the Senior Leadership Team, Herndon has this to say: “As we move into our 45th year of service, we are assembling a leadership team that will continue our mission to build a more loving and caring community through service, and Carolyn and Holly both bring the veteran skills and ideas that will help us grow within our community. Interfaith is well equipped to continue our commitment to serving the people of The Woodlands.”
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.
Holly Mayer, the new Director of Programs and Services at Interfaith of The Woodlands.
Carolyn Donovan, the new Director of Development at Interfaith of The Woodlands.
Interfaith celebrates 45 year anniversary with community-wide food drive
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Thursday, August 30, 2018) — How amazing is it that a man had a vision to create an organization, in his brand new community, whose sole purpose was to build community? That is exactly what The Woodlands Founder, George P. Mitchell, created in The Woodlands Religious Communities, Inc., known as Interfaith of The Woodlands, in 1973.
On October 5, 2018, Interfaith of The Woodlands will celebrate its 45th anniversary with a Day of Caring: A Community-Wide Food Drive in the parking lot of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
The goal? To do what Interfaith of The Woodlands does best: bring together neighbors representing the spiritual, corporate, school, civic, families and individuals of our community in the name of service, to help our neighbors in need and celebrate the past, present and future of our beloved Interfaith.
“Our history as the ‘hometown nonprofit’ has been full of caring about our neighbors through service. This celebration is about the past, but it’s about our future too. We thought the best way to celebrate these 45 years was to go back to our mission: care. Naturally, a food drive is what came to mind. Everyone can give a can of food,” says Missy Herndon, Interfaith’s President and CEO, on developing the celebration observance plans.
Interfaith will host a community-wide food drive with a goal of raising 45,000 pounds of food in honor of its anniversary.
“We want this to be a big birthday party, one where our neighbors do what they’ve always done, which is gather to help each other. Our mission is based on caring and building a more loving community through service, and we continue to do just that as we honor the past 45 years,” Herndon says.
The upcoming celebration will feature local businesses, community leaders, volunteers and staff, all working together to collect food for Interfaith’s food pantry. Interfaith is inviting anyone to participate, as the food panty serves over 18,000 individuals on average annually.
Items can be delivered at Interfaith Central, at 4242 Interfaith Way, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. “We’re hoping to see a caravan of people, just like during Harvey, as neighbors lined up our street to donate and give back,” Herndon says. Any interested parties may go to woodlandsinterfaith.org/dayofcaring for information on how to participate or just show up on October 5.
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.
2018 Interfaith Staff
(l-r) Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, standing with Rev. Don Gebert, Interfaith’s First Executive Director.
Rob Johnson (left), Board Director of Interfaith of The Woodlands, serves a complete Thanksgiving meal to senior adults at the South County Community Center.
Over 2,100 Local CISD Students Received School Supplies from Interfaith of The Woodlands
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Tuesday, August 14, 2018) — With the start of the 2018–2019 school year, Interfaith of The Woodlands served nearly 2,150 local students and 682 families in total as part of their Kits 4 Kidz 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.
This is the 34th year that Interfaith has been providing school supplies to area students. As many as 41 local schools have students that use Interfaith’s Kits 4 Kidz program for their school supplies. “Interfaith is a blessing to my family. Without this program, I’m not sure how I would be able to afford school supplies for my child,” an Interfaith client shared with Robert Reyes, Interfaith’s Program Coordinator in the Family Services department.
Interfaith’s President and CEO, Missy Herndon, says she was honored to serve these children. “By giving children the same school supply packs that the PTOs produce at the schools, we hope to ensure every child has the same opportunity for success in the classroom,” she says. “We are very thankful for the many Interfaith volunteers and donors who played an integral role in the success of this program.”
Families signed up in advance to order grade and school specific supplies; however, Interfaith also served anyone who missed the registration. Through late distribution, an additional 321 children and 123 families were able to choose miscellaneous school supplies and a new backpack from community-wide school supply drives.
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.
Local student receives school supplies from Interfaith of The Woodlands
Interfaith Staff present backpacks and school supply kits. (l-r) Program Coordinator, Rose Cervantes; Program Manager of Family Services, Leslie McPherson; Program Coordinator, Robert Reyes; President and CEO, Missy Herndon; Vice President, Lucy Gomez; and Program Coordinator, Maria Rodriguez
ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE HOMETOWN HEROES TO BE HONORED AT THE WOODLANDS’ CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE GALA BENEFITTING INTERFAITH OF THE WOODLANDS AT 6 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2018
THE WOODLANDS, Texas — (August 8, 2018) Five individuals, one business and one nonprofit organization have been selected as the 2018 Hometown Heroes by Interfaith of The Woodlands, a nonprofit social service agency providing myriad programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands and the surrounding area.
2018’s Hometown Heroes are Robert Heineman, Steve Leakey, Dr. Joel Reed, Patti Rivela, Mrs. Brynn Ballard Huntsman and Mr. Peter Huntsman, Entergy Texas, Inc. and The Junior League of The Woodlands. These honorees will be recognized for their many contributions to the community at The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence Gala, which benefits Interfaith. The theme this year is “45 Years of Caring,” which marks the 45th anniversary of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
This special Hometown Heroes gala will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, October 6, 2018 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center. In celebration of serving in The Woodlands community for 45 years, Interfaith selected Dr. Ann Snyder and Mr. Jerry Snyder as Honorary Chairs for the 2018 event. The gala will be co-chaired by Shirelle Chimenti and Elvira Graham, and in addition to honoring the Hometown Heroes, it will include dinner, live and silent auctions items and a one-of-a-kind, Moroccan-themed after-party. All proceeds benefit Interfaith of The Woodlands.
The 2018 Hometown Heroes were chosen by a selection committee composed of Hometown Heroes alumni, which includes over 100 local residents and 14 area businesses that have contributed to the educational, civic, cultural and spiritual fabric of the community.
This annual tradition of honoring Hometown Heroes began in 1999 as part of The Woodlands 25th Anniversary Celebration and has continued ever since. 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.
Individual tickets will go on sale Wednesday, August 1, 2018.
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
Robert Heineman
With a degree in architecture from Rice University, Robert Heineman began on The Woodlands’ project as an intern for The Mitchell Energy and Development Company. Building a community from scratch is no small feat. The early years were fraught with uncertainty and fiscal challenges, but Robert was steadfast in his commitment to Mitchell’s dream, and within ten years he had assumed the position of Vice President of Planning and Design, a position he holds to this day, 45 years later. Along the way, Heineman earned a master’s degree in urban planning from Harvard University. His infamous notecard sketch of our now vibrant Woodlands Waterway, and his forethought and attention to detail, has made The Woodlands the community it is today.
In 2009, Heineman was granted fellowship by the American Institute of Architects. In 2010, Heineman received the prestigious George Mitchell Award for “helping guide the vision for The Woodlands and lay[ing] the groundwork for the Town Center and development of The Woodlands Waterways.” The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce recognized Heineman as Volunteer of the Year in 1993 and Citizen of the Year in 2014.
In addition to his day job, Robert freely gives of his time through the mobility committee of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, the bench committee of The Woodlands Art Council and several owners’ association boards.
Steve Leakey
About twenty years ago, Steve Leakey and his wife, Ann, left Dallas to retire in The Woodlands, Texas, a then up-and-coming small town. As a former international technology sales executive, Steve was never one to stay idle for long. He jumped with both feet into his new hometown village association, leading them through many years of change. He calmly guided his neighbors through community issues like expansion and construction, while the governance structure of The Woodlands transitioned from the Community Association to the Township. All the while, he spearheaded the scholarship program for Lone Star College, mentoring numerous students over the years.
Also close to his heart is the Voter Awareness Council, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization whose mission is to encourage and equip citizens to vote. From working with high school students to organizing and encouraging unbiased candidate forums, Steve has earned respect from both sides of the aisle by making the voting experience a positive one. He works hard to promote civility and integrity among the candidates.
Steve is also active in The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, particularly in the Business Advocacy Council and the Transportation Committees, lending his voice, calm demeanor and mutual respect to various community discussions.
Recently, Steve has taken on the volunteer opportunity of a lifetime, helping his daughter and her business partners launch the Texas Autism Academy. This school gives options to families with students not thriving in their current academic environment and customizes educational and developmental learning opportunities.
Dr. Joel Reed
After returning from serving as a physician in the Korean War, Dr. Joel Reed and his wife, Jeanne, settled in Houston, where he established a private medical practice in the Texas Medical Center, focusing on internal medicine and pulmonary disease. During this time, Dr. Reed served as president of the Harris County Medical Society, where he worked to create a plan that brought health care to patients who could not otherwise afford it. He rallied 100 physicians, 300 pharmacies and three area hospitals to join a coalition to help those in need of care. The effort received national attention, culminating in an invitation from then President Ronald Regan, where Dr. Reed was honored at a White House reception.
Dr. Reed moved to The Woodlands upon retirement at the age of 70, where he quickly assumed a central role with the Interfaith Community Clinic. From assisting with the first fundraising efforts to acquire a building, to seeing patients on a regular basis, Dr. Reed is the lifeblood of the Clinic. Just a few years ago, on his 90th birthday, United States Congressman Kevin Brady awarded Dr. Reed a commendation for his life’s work.
When his wife, Jeanne, passed in 2008, Dr. Reed established a foundation in her name that regularly awards grants to local, deserving charities.
Patti Rivela
A resident of The Woodlands for 20 years, Patti Rivela is very active in Montgomery County Youth Services’ Yes to Youth program, having served on its board for six years, and as chairs of their gala and several Ladies Night Out events. As a frequent volunteer for their preteen and teen emergency shelter, Patti helps to normalize the lives of young people by creating a welcoming and loving environment—decorating their rooms, making dinners, providing art lessons—but more importantly she gives of her time, listening and talking with the shelter children with an open heart.
In addition to Yes to Youth, Patti has been a 12-year volunteer with the Montgomery County Women’s Center as an artist, creating framed portraits of shelter residents and their children. Additionally, she has served as the event chair for Panther Creek Inspiration Ranch’s Denim and Diamonds gala, Memorial Hermann’s In the Pink luncheon and New Danville’s Tea on the Lawn.
Before moving to The Woodlands, Patti taught art classes to inner-city youth in Houston, where she was named the 1997 Outstanding Young Educator.
Mr. Peter Huntsman and Mrs. Brynn Ballard Huntsman
Brynn and Peter Huntsman came to The Woodlands nearly 20 years ago, carrying with them a family legacy of service first. Not only did they choose to raise their eight children here, but they chose to make The Woodlands home to their Huntsman Corporate Headquarters. Since joining our community, both their family and their corporate entity have spurred on momentous community activity through their generous contributions of time and financial resources. Peter and Brynn are involved in a number of US and international based humanitarian projects through Huntsman Corporation, the Huntsman Cancer Foundation as well as the Huntsman Family Foundation, established by Peter’s parents, Jon and Karen Huntsman.
Locally, Peer and Brynn dedicate time for work on non-profit organizational Boards including Interfaith of The Woodlands, Interfaith Child Development Center and The Montgomery County Women’s Center; chairing numerous events and fundraising endeavors in addition to supporting organizations globally. Additionally, they recently completed a three-year term as Ward Bishop for Young Adults through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and were driving forces of encouraging their young adults to serve their community. During Hurricane Harvey, The Huntsmans created a record breaking matching-fund campaign to assist our affected neighbors in need. Most recently, they have expanded their support to helping the community development and revitalization of the historical cemetery in the Tamina Community.
Entergy Texas, Inc.
Entergy Texas, Inc. believes that no one should have to choose between food or medicine and electricity, even though many elderly and disabled individuals face these choices every day. Through Entergy’s The Power to Care program, funds are raised through donations and matched, up to $500,000 annually, by shareholder contributions. Through grants to local nonprofit agencies, seniors and disabled individuals in crisis receive emergency bill payment assistance. 100% of each contribution is passed along to those in need. In 2016 alone, this program raised $443,037, giving more than 2,000 individuals and families the help they needed.
Under the direction of CEO Sallie Rainer, Entergy Texas, Inc. is deeply entrenched in The Woodlands community. Each quarter, they host a social services networking group where those who serve low-income and high-need populations come together to share ideas and resources. They also coordinate an annual Poverty Simulation event to educate the community on the plight of those living under less-than-ideal conditions. Over the last 18 years, more than 22,000 fans have been distributed in the summer months for those living without air conditioning.
Entergy’s employees donate more than 8,000 volunteer hours to 28 organized events; they participate in Habitat for Humanity (most recently building a home in Beaumont with custom hurricane clips inside the house and along the siding and shingles) and volunteer with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the Crisis Assistance Center, Mission New Caney and Covenant for Christ. They also coordinate Hug-a-Tree and Kiss-a-Fish events to raise environmental awareness. The company is the proud recipient of numerous humanitarian awards.
Junior League of The Woodlands, Inc.
Junior League of The Woodlands, Inc. is an organization of women who are committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The organization’s purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
Originally founded on April 14, 1983 as Junior Service League of North Houston, Junior League of North Harris and South Montgomery Counties, Inc. was admitted to the Association of Junior Leagues International on February 25, 1990.
The league’s members have accrued more than 31,000 volunteer hours per year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these volunteer hours have an annual value to the community of more than $500,000.
Over more than 25 years, Junior League of The Woodlands has contributed over six million dollars in direct financial support and volunteer time to various nonprofit and community organizations within The Woodlands. The league currently has eight community programs and two fundraisers.
WASTE CONNECTIONS, INC. 2018 GOLF CLASSIC FOR KIDS RAISES $110,000 FOR CHARITY
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Thursday, July 26, 2018) — Interfaith of The Woodlands recently received a generous donation from Waste Connections, Inc., as a beneficiary of their 10th annual Golf Classic for Kids on March 25 and 26 at Golf Trails of The Woodlands. Interfaith received $110,000 that will go toward helping our neighbors 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 one million dollars. Festivities began the evening before the tournament with a reception featuring improvisational speed painter Dan Dunn. The following morning, players and guests arrived to a picture-perfect day. Special guests Roger Clemens, Johnny Damon, Josh Beckett and Bronson Burgon were on hand to visit with attendees. Throughout the 18 holes of golf, players were treated to a variety of contests and refreshments on the course. Even non-golfers were able to get in on the fun with a VIP Experience that included Erin Ness, professional poker player.
Waste Connections has raised well over three million dollars for charities since this event came to The Woodlands in 2012. “It’s donations like these that keep the doors of Interfaith open,” said Missy Herndon, Interfaith’s President and CEO. “We are grateful for the continued support from Waste Connections that allows us to continue our mission of building a more loving and caring community through service.”
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 two million residential, commercial, industrial, and exploration and production customers from a network of operations in 31 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.
(l-r) Courtney West (Manager of Development at IFTW), Missy Herndon (President and CEO of IFTW), Michelle Little (Waste Connections’ Vice President of Accounting and Golf Tournament Chair), and Carolyn Donovan (Director of Development at IFTW) standing with the $110,000 from Waste Connections, Inc.
