The 2023 Walk Reveal Soirée
2023 Hometown Heroes
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Tuesday, April 4, 2023) — Interfaith of The Woodlands hosted their annual Celebration of Excellence Gala on Friday, March 31 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, with over 750 guests in attendance. The Gala, presented by Huntsman Corporation, raised nearly $600,000 benefiting those in South Montgomery County facing a personal crisis by providing food items, clothing vouchers, rent/mortgage, utility assistance and through programming for our Senior neighbors.
Long-time volunteers, Nicole and Will Murphy were celebrated as Honorary Chairs, at the gala themed, “An Evening in Versailles,” where six new Hometown Heroes were honored, and the highly distinguished George Mitchell Award was presented for only the fourth time in its history. The event launched a year of celebration as the organization will be celebrating 50 years on October 5, 2023.
Upon arrival, guests entered the pre-function area that emulated the Gardens of Versailles in France. Guests enjoyed a reception and were entertained with classical covers and a performance from The Players Theatre Company. During this time, attendees were able to place bids at the bid board that showcased incredible items and participate in a Wine Tasting.
Mary Anne Whitney, Chairman of Interfaith Board of Directors, and Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, welcomed guests and thanked sponsors. A rotating group of individuals who already received the coveted honor assisted in the emceeing of the event, as well as escorted the 2023 Hometown Hero class onto the stage and helped present their medallions.
With over 150 Hometown Heroes honored since 1999, the 2023 recipients included distinguished individuals, and organizations including: Shirelle Chimenti, Sheriff Rand Henderson, Angie and Danny Signorelli, Theresa Wagaman, Ann Wolford, Conroe Independent School District represented by Dr. Curtis Null, Superintendent and Cypress – Woodlands Junior Forum represented by Kathy Huse, President. For the fourth time since the inception of the award, The Mitchell Award was presented by Jim Carman, President of The Houston Region - Howard Hughes Corporation and Mary Anne Whitney, Chairman of The Board for Interfaith of The Woodlands, to The Honorable Kevin Brady who served as the U.S. Representative for Texas’s 8th Congressional District from 1997 to 2023.
The Live Auction segment of the evening was led by Will Murphy, past Interfaith Chairman of The Board of Directors, and included unique items such as: an exclusive Amrina At-Home Celebration for 12, an 18-karat, yellow gold 150 carat gemstone necklace by Mark Pharo, a Breitling Superocean Automatic Watch donated by Breitling The Woodlands, a six night Paris getaway for two, club level seats for the entire Houston Texans’ 2023 Season, and “Sewell For All Seasons,” an opportunity to drive four different vehicles, compliments of Sewell Automotive Companies for a one-year period.
“As Interfaith prepares to celebrate 50 years of service to our neighbors, it is inspirational to be a witness to the steadfast dedication and love from the incredible people in our community,” said Missy Herndon, President & CEO Interfaith of The Woodlands, “Since our organization’s inception, our beautiful community has never faltered in their commitment to helping neighbors who are experiencing a crisis. We are grateful for or visionaries, Mr. George P. Mitchell and Rev. Don Gebert, who created an organization with a mission to bring people together and serve our neighbors in need.”
Immediately following the program, the celebration continued at the Acqua Lounge and Bar inside The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center. All proceeds of the evening will support the community programs of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
About Interfaith of The Woodlands: Interfaith of The Woodlands is a non-profit social service agency providing numerous programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands 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.
3rd Annual Clergy Symposium
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Monday, February 27, 2023) —Interfaith of The Woodlands hosted their 3rd Annual Clergy Peer-To-Peer Symposium at the Woodforest National Bank Executive conference room on Tuesday, February 21, 2023. This event was free to all Ordained Clergy of Member Congregations of Interfaith of The Woodlands. The Symposium topic was “Adaptive Leadership & Ministry with the Zillennials.”
“We are so grateful to have engaged Clergy supporting each other not only in the community but through ever-changing needs,” said Missy Herndon, President & CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands. “This Peer-To-Peer Symposium created a space to learn. Our goal is to continue to create opportunities for our spiritual community to grow and share with each other.”
Guest speakers for this event included:
- Mike Bonem a consultant, coach, and speaker
- Ruth Reitmeier a professor at Rice University’s Jones Graduate School of Business
Mike Bonem spoke about Adaptive Leadership and touched on technical and adaptive challenges, characteristics of adaptive leadership, the biggest challenges in faith-based organizations, ways to develop adaptive capacities and the cost of becoming an adaptive leader.
Ruth Reitmeier discussed The Greatest Reset: Leading in the Age of YOLO, FOMO, and HULU. She spoke about Zillennials, who range from ages 18 to 30, and mentioned: characteristics, mental health issues, image and influence, social rejection, instant gratification, decision fatigue and attention deficit.
Interfaith has 60 Member Congregations representing diverse faiths, who come together to support the programs and services, to meet community needs.
About Interfaith of The Woodlands: Interfaith of The Woodlands is a non-profit social service agency providing numerous programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands 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.
Appointments To Senior Leadership Team
INTERFAITH OF THE WOODLANDS ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Thursday, February 16, 2023) —Interfaith of The Woodlands is pleased to announce the appointments of Amanda Poole, Director of Development, Chazzette Adams, Director of Marketing & Communications and Natalie Healy, Director of The Interfaith Hand Me Up Shop. Poole has over 12 years of non-profit experience. Adams has over 12 years of marketing & communications experience. Healy has over 10 years of retail experience. They are all welcomed additions to the Senior Leadership team at Interfaith of The Woodlands.
“Interfaith of The Woodlands is delighted to welcome Amanda, Chazzette and Natalie to help lead the organization and continue our mission of serving neighbors in need,” said Missy Herndon, President & CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands. “They come to us as experts in their fields, with hearts of service.”
Amanda Poole 
Prior to joining Interfaith, Poole was the Director of Memorial Hermann’s Canopy Survivorship Center. She spent twelve years working in the non-profit sectors, including in Latin America and Africa. Poole holds a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Mays Business School at Texas A&M University. A graduate of Leadership Montgomery County, she remains involved on the LMC Alumni Council. She also served on In The Pink of Health and Women Who Rock committees.
Chazzette Adams
Preceding Interfaith, Adams worked as Director of Marketing & Communications at The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce. She spent nine years working in the field of marketing & communications in her home country of St. Kitts and Nevis and an additional three years working in the industry, in The Woodlands Area. Adams has a bachelor’s degree in Tourism Convention and Event Management from Indiana University and a certificate in Digital Marketing from Media Bistro. She remains actively involved in The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce where she serves on their Marketing Advisory Committee.
Natalie Healy
This January, Healy was promoted to Director of the Interfaith Hand Me Up Shop. She joined the Interfaith team in 2020 as General Manager for the shop. Prior to joining the team, she worked as Senior Merchandising Manager for Gap, Inc. and served as a community leader for the “This Way Onward” program, teaching workforce readiness to teens and young adults facing barriers to employment. Healy graduated from Sam Houston State University with a bachelor’s degree in Photography.
About Interfaith of The Woodlands: Interfaith of The Woodlands is a non-profit social service agency providing numerous programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands 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.
2023 Chairman of The Board
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Friday, February 10, 2023) —Interfaith of The Woodlands is pleased to announce the appointment of Mary Anne Whitney as Chairman of the Board. Mrs. Whitney succeeds Will Murphy, who has moved to Ex-Officio after serving as Chairman of the Board for the past two years. Mrs. Whitney is the current Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Waste Connections, Inc.
“During the past seven years, I have had the privilege to serve our community through Interfaith of The Woodlands as a Board member, working with incredible corporate, spiritual and civic leaders, to meet the ever-changing needs of our community,” said Mary Anne Whitney, 2023 Board Chair, “I am excited to continue the legacy of service and support the impactful programs of this great organization.”
Additionally, Interfaith welcomed new members of the Board of Directors including:
- Amy Reardon, Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking Group at PNC Bank
- Wade Rogers, Senior Vice President, Global Human Resources and Chief Compliance Officer at Huntsman Corporation
- Reverend Mark Sorensen, Senior Pastor at The Woodlands Methodist Church
- Pastor Brad Wright, Senior Pastor at Grace Presbyterian Church
“Interfaith of The Woodlands is blessed to have a board of directors and advisors who are not only experts of their industry but also have hearts to serve. We look forward to an incredible year of caring for our community alongside these amazing leaders,” said Missy Herndon, President & CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands.
About Interfaith of The Woodlands: 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. For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services, or to become a volunteer, please visit: woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
Interfaith of The Woodlands Serves Nearly 10,000 Neighbors Through Their 2022 Holiday GIVING Programs
Interfaith of The Woodlands Serves Nearly 10,000 Neighbors Through Their 2022 Holiday GIVING Programs
The Woodlands, TX (December 29, 2022) –Interfaith of The Woodlands remained busy throughout the 2022 holiday season as they served 9,929 local neighbors, including children and Seniors, between November and December.
Interfaith’s Holiday GIVING Programs provide families, children and seniors with gifts and food. These programs help to ease some of the burdens being faced by families who are experiencing financial hardship, especially during the season. During this holiday season, many individuals, families, congregations, organizations and other groups generously donated time, funds, and gifts to aid in serving individuals across South Montgomery County. A very special thank you to corporate partner, Waste Connections for their donation of 280 Bikes through their annual Bike Build.
“Each year, thousands of neighbors call on Interfaith of The Woodlands to support them through the holidays. Thanks to the generosity of our amazing, giving community; Interfaith is able to answer that call. Every person deserves to feel the holiday spirit and we are grateful we live in a place where our community supports one another,” shared Missy Herndon, President & CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
Individuals and Families were served through the 2022 Holiday GIVING programs, including:
Adopt – A – Family
Families were adopted by residents of the community and receive donated gifts, food from the Interfaith Food Pantry, and clothing vouchers to the Hand Me Up Shop.
Toy Drive and Distribution
Community members hosted toy drives and all toys were organized at the South County Community Center. Families in need were able to “shop” for gifts for their children at no cost. Additionally, Waste Connections donated over 200 bikes!
Gift For Seniors
Through the Gifts for Seniors program, the community adopted nearly 700 Senior neighbors and the Interfaith Senior Services team provided special gifts to local seniors through festive parties and events including a Senior Luncheon which hosted nearly 300 Senior neighbors.
Interfaith is thankful for the community of support, through in-kind and monetary donations, making these programs possible.
Interfaith of The Woodlands is a nonprofit social service agency providing programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands and surrounding area. Interfaith provides basic needs assistance and special programs to families experiencing financial crisis, and supportive service through care and wellness programs to senior adults, in addition to many community programs dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families in need. For more information on Interfaith programs and services, or to become a volunteer, please visit woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
INTERFAITH CELEBRATES COMMUNITY AND HONORS HOMETOWN HEROES
THE WALK THE WOODLANDS DEBUTS AUGUST 2022 HONORING SIX LOCAL COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
INTERFAITH ANNOUNCES ADDITION OF LATOYA COLLINS
FIVE WHO SHARE AWARDS
Volunteer Appreciation This Spring
Interfaith is honoring volunteers throughout the month of April! Food Pantry, Hand Me Up Shop, Veggie Village, Senior Transportation, Senior Programs, volunteers at The South County Community Center and more. Last year, there were 22,976 volunteer hours. Thank you to all of our volunteers that help us our fulfill our mission of building a more loving and caring community through service.
Interfaith’s 48th Anniversary
Be a part of Interfaith’s 48th Anniversary by donating food or hosting a food drive! To see a complete list of items needed for Interfaith Food Pantry, click here. We will collect food throughout November and December for the Anniversary Food Drive.
Remembering Reverend Don Gebert
Reverend Don Gebert, Interfaith’s Founding Executive Director, passed away last month at the age of 91. “He was a man of great compassion and kindness. He was a mentor and friend to our Interfaith family and will always live in our hearts. We are honored and privileged to carry on his great legacy of caring,” shared Missy Herndon, President & CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands.
Celebrate with the Gift of Giving!
November kicked off our Holiday GIVING Programs. See information on how you can help neighbors this holiday season with toys for families, gifts for Seniors and food pantry assistance.
Happy Holidays: Thank you to all of our donors and volunteers!
November was a month to be thankful, and we are humbled by our neighbors and community partners who have given so much to Interfaith this past month, from Food Pantry donations to participating in Holiday GIVING to volunteering your time.
2018 Celebration of Excellence Gala Honoring our Hometown Heroes
October was a show-stopping month of service and giving! Thanks to our community, Interfaith was able to honor our 2018 Hometown Heroes, all while raising vital funds for local families in need. A very special thank you to our generous supporters, including Presenting Sponsor Woodforest National Bank. We raised $750,000…
Interfaith Celebrates Day of Caring: A Community-Wide Food Drive
We hosted a community-wide food drive to celebrate Interfaith’s 45th anniversary. So many volunteers and community members came out to offer their support and to drop off food donations, and we just wanted to say Thank You for Caring!
Kits 4 Kidz Gives to over 2,100 Children!
Interfaith was filled with the sound of laughter and excitement as over 2,100 children received backpacks and school supplies as part of our annual Kits 4 Kidz program. Thank you to The Woodlands community for donating and volunteering to help students in need.
2018 Hometown Heroes Selected
Congratulations to the five individuals, one corporation and one nonprofit organization for being selected as the 2018 Hometown Heroes: 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.
Kits 4 Kidz Community-Wide School Supply Drive Kicks Off
Interfaith kicked off Kits 4 Kidz school supply drive! Supplies being collected include markers, crayons, scissors, glue, pencils, pens, map pencils, copy paper, notebook paper, binders, pocket folders, pencil boxes/bags and backpacks.
ON THE GO Mobile Food Pantry
Throughout the year, Interfaith takes its Food Pantry on the road to provide for our neighbors in need. Recently, Interfaith distributed 100 boxes of fruits and vegetables, provided by the Montgomery County Food Bank, to 539 individuals at Mission Woods Apartment Complex!
IRONMAN Texas
Thank you to all our IRONMAN Volunteers that not only served our athletes from near and far, but helped raise much needed funding for our many Programs and Services! Interfaith had 461 volunteers log over 2,000 volunteer hours for IRONMAN Texas!
Food Pantry Remodel and Reveal
The Interfaith Food Pantry has recently remodeled and upgraded their refrigeration area to accommodate protein rich perishable foods, such as frozen meats and dairy in addition to the fresh produce harvested at both Veggie Village Community Donation Gardens.
John Cooper Empty Bowls Project
Each year, students from The John Cooper School National Art Honor Society create hundreds of bowls in an effort to raise funds to combat hunger in the community. The bowls are part of their Annual Empty Bowls Project where guests were invited to donate $10…
Interfaith Announces 2017 Board Chair Debbie Sukin
Board members joined clergy from our Member Congregations at Interfaith’s Annual Meeting in December. Debbie Sukin was announced as the 2017 Board Chair and Ray Sanders will move to the Ex-Officio.
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Interfaith of The Woodlands annual Kits 4 Kidz School Supplies program offers assistance to families in crisis needing help with school supplies for the upcoming school year. Please see flyer for more information.
Help children in need prepare for a successful year by donating to the School Supply Drive! Donations are accepted at Interfaith of The Woodlands, 4242 Interfaith Way.
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Thank you to our volunteers representing our member congregations at Serving Our Seniors – A Day of Service!
On Saturday, March 26, over 200 volunteers gathered to help complete these service projects, making an impact in the lives of our senior residents. Interfaith thanks our many volunteers who make this program possible!
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The annual Caregivers Conference returns to Christ Church United Methodist in a new format on Saturday, November 6th, from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm.
Any family member caring for a loved one will find the conference both informative and useful in skill-building, divided into 3 sessions specific to the many questions a caregiver may have.
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The annual Caregivers Conference returns to Christ Church United Methodist in a new format on Saturday, November 6th, from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm.
Any family member caring for a loved one will find the conference both informative and useful in skill-building, divided into 3 sessions specific to the many questions a caregiver may have.
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School Supplies Program
Clergy Invited to Symposium
Holiday GIIVING
FaithsTogether 20th Annual Giving Thanks Observance
FaithsTogether held their 20th Annual Giving Thanks Observance! People of all backgrounds came together at The Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church for a beautiful celebration of the season! Thank you, FaithsTogether, for all your hard work in putting together such an inspiring program, which included…
2018 Celebration of Excellence Gala Honoring our Hometown Heroes
October was a show-stopping month of service and giving! Thanks to our community, Interfaith was able to honor our 2018 Hometown Heroes, all while raising vital funds for local families in need. A very special thank you to our generous supporters, including Presenting Sponsor Woodforest National Bank. We raised $750,000…
Interfaith Celebrates Day of Caring: A Community-Wide Food Drive
We hosted a community-wide food drive to celebrate Interfaith’s 45th anniversary. So many volunteers and community members came out to offer their support and to drop off food donations, and we just wanted to say Thank You for Caring!
Kits 4 Kidz Gives to over 2,100 Children!
Interfaith was filled with the sound of laughter and excitement as over 2,100 children received backpacks and school supplies as part of our annual Kits 4 Kidz program. Thank you to The Woodlands community for donating and volunteering to help students in need.
Thank You!
Happy Birthday to our founding Executive Director
May Missions Fair
Veggie Village Volunteers
Reverend Don Gebert Speaks to IYP at Inaugural Event
Senior Clergy Attend Interfaith Board of Directors Retreat
2023 Chairman of The Board and New Board of Directors
THE WOODLANDS, TX (Friday, February 10, 2023) —Interfaith of The Woodlands is pleased to announce the appointment of Mary Anne Whitney as Chairman of the Board. Mrs. Whitney succeeds Will Murphy, who has moved to Ex-Officio after serving as Chairman of the Board for the past two years. Mrs. Whitney is the current Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Waste Connections, Inc.
“During the past seven years, I have had the privilege to serve our community through Interfaith of The Woodlands as a Board member, working with incredible corporate, spiritual and civic leaders, to meet the ever-changing needs of our community,” said Mary Anne Whitney, 2023 Board Chair, “I am excited to continue the legacy of service and support the impactful programs of this great organization.”
Additionally, Interfaith welcomed new members of the Board of Directors including:
- Amy Reardon, Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking Group at PNC Bank
- Wade Rogers, Senior Vice President, Global Human Resources and Chief Compliance Officer at Huntsman Corporation
- Reverend Mark Sorensen, Senior Pastor at The Woodlands Methodist Church
- Pastor Brad Wright, Senior Pastor at Grace Presbyterian Church
“Interfaith of The Woodlands is blessed to have a board of directors and advisors who are not only experts of their industry but also have hearts to serve. We look forward to an incredible year of caring for our community alongside these amazing leaders,” said Missy Herndon, President & CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands.
About Interfaith of The Woodlands: 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. For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services, or to become a volunteer, please visit: woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
INTERFAITH CELEBRATES COMMUNITY AND HONORS HOMETOWN HEROES
THE WALK THE WOODLANDS DEBUTS AUGUST 2022 HONORING SIX LOCAL COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
INTERFAITH ANNOUNCES ADDITION OF LATOYA COLLINS
FIVE WHO SHARE AWARDS
INTERFAITH OF THE WOODLANDS ANNOUNCES 2022 HOMETOWN HEROES
Paula Klapesky
Since the third grade, Paula Klapesky knew she wanted to be a teacher. She found a way to lead any activity she was a part of, and by the time she was in college had set her sights on becoming a school principal. After achieving her degree, Klapesky began her career as a 3rd grade teacher in Humble ISD. Encouraged by her then Principal, she began working on a Master’s degree in educational administration. During that time, she met her future husband, who was a teacher and coach in Conroe ISD. Together, they completed graduate school and began a marriage that has endured for more than 33 years. Klapesky moved to Conroe ISD and taught at both the elementary and intermediate school levels before accepting the role of Assistant Principal at Collins Intermediate. Next, she joined the team who would open Mitchell Intermediate School, serving as the Assistant Principal for two years, and then becoming the Principal, where she has led thousands of children through their 5th and 6th grade experience for the last 24 years. Beyond her caring and nurturing nature, parents remark that Klapesky not only ensures that all students achieve academically, they also learn to believe in themselves and find the drive to reach their goals. Under her leadership, students are reminded that they must always be true to themselves, and always remember their neighbor while they set-out on the path of life. In today’s challenging environment, pre-teens are faced with challenges to their emotional health and social well-being. Paula Klapesky meticulously boosts these traits, while emphasizing a delicate balance between their extracurricular activities and academics. Outside of school, Klapesky and her husband, Larry, raised three children in The Woodlands, where each attended schools within the Conroe ISD system. With her husband serving as an Assistant Principal at The Woodlands High School, both were actively involved in their children’s lives. Now her oldest and his wife live in the community. Her daughter-in-law is a teacher in the Conroe ISD, her daughter is graduating from college in December and hopes to pursue a career in education, too. Her youngest is a photographer, videographer, and entrepreneur in the making. Klapesky’s next goal in life is to earn a Doctorate in Educational Leadership while continuing her role as Principal of her second home, Mitchell Intermediate School. Educational formats have changed quite a bit in the last 30 years, but Klapesky is bringing the same commitment to her coursework that she has brought to her students and family for the past three decades. She graduates in December 2023. Klapesky’s love for her profession is boundless, and she is proud to have spent a lifetime positively influencing her students. In a hometown that has given her and her family so very much, Klapesky intends to continue nurturing and shaping young minds to become the leaders of tomorrow.
Pictured: Paula Klapesky, 2022 Hometown Hero, with husband, Larry, family members, and Missy Herndon, President & CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands
Walt Lisiewski
After four years in the United States Navy, Lisiewski enrolled and graduated from the University of South Florida School of Engineering earning a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. Upon graduating, he began his career in Engineering Construction. Lisiewski was employed for 23 years with Brown & Root, Inc. working in the fields of design, construction, and maintenance of nuclear power and petro-chemical plants, pulp and paper mills, refineries, pipe lines, and other specialties. He was recruited by Jacobs Engineering for the position of Sr. Vice-President, North America, Construction and Maintenance. Lisiewski continued his career at Jacobs Engineering in this capacity for 12 years. His many duties included management and responsibility for a workforce of over 5,000 professionals. After 35 years and over 2,000,000 flight miles, it was time to retire. Lisiewski decided to dedicate his time in service to his community. Just a few of Lisiewski’s community service activities include: volunteering with Neighborhood Watch for the last 13 years, Director and Vice-President of Montgomery County, Municipal Utility District #1 (two terms), Chairman of Panther Creek Residential Design Standards committee, Panther Creek flea market, Chairman of The Woodlands Township - Development Standards Committee, The Woodlands Township 4th of July Parade, Panther Creek Village Association, One Water Task Force, Saints Simon & Jude Catholic Church Men’s Club, Habitat for Humanity, Voter Awareness Council, Founding Member of Township Future and Insperity Golf Tournament volunteer, earning his 10 year pin for service. Lisiewski and his wife, Louise, have been married 47 years. They have two adult children, two grandsons, and two grand-dogs. They have lived in The Woodlands for the past 32 years.
Pictured: Walt Lisiewski, 2022 Hometown Hero, with wife Louise and family
Tim Welbes
Tim Welbes and his wife, Peg, have made The Woodlands home since 1985, raising four children and welcoming eight grandchildren. A Houston native, Tim graduated from The University of Houston with a degree in Accounting and shortly thereafter, obtained his CPA certification. He began his career with Ernst & Ernst, working in their Houston office for five years, before accepting a role with a small CPA firm in Colorado. Houston quickly called him back home where he took a role with John Pace Homes as a new home sales consultant, ultimately becoming the Chief Executive Officer for the company. This led him to Standard Pacific Homes, where he began as a Sales and Marketing manager, eventually earning a promotion to Houston Division Manager. This role required him to purchase home lots in the newly developed master planned community of The Woodlands. Through this work, he met with executives at The Woodlands Development Company and in 1985, accepted a position on their team and relocated his family to the community. This began a 36-year career that led him to serve as the Co-President of The Woodlands Development Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Howard Hughes Corporation. Welbes’ work in The Woodlands has led him to serve on various Boards, including United Way of Montgomery County, The South Montgomery County YMCA, Interfaith of The Woodlands, The Montgomery County Community Foundation, The Greater Houston Builders Association. He has devoted countless hours to guiding not only these nonprofit organizations, but also ensuring that Mr. Mitchell’s vision for The Woodlands continues.
Pictured L-R: Jim Carman, President, Houston Region, The Howard Hughes Corporation; Missy Herndon, President & CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands; Tim Welbes, 2022 Hometown Hero, Peg Welbes; Robert Heineman, 2019 Hometown Hero; Lorrie Parise, Director of PR & Community Relations, The Howard Hughes Corporation
Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center
Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center is one of two survivorship centers in the state of Texas, and the only one serving the greater Houston area. Founded in 2016, Canopy has provided free programs and services to cancer survivors, patients and their families, regardless of where they are in their journeys or where they are receiving treatment. Their strong community connection and compassionate support system make it possible for Canopy to provide programs geared towards improving the health and quality of life of cancer survivors post-diagnosis. Led by a volunteer team of over 70 individuals, Canopy offers 75 programs each month ranging from Art Therapy, Cooking and Yoga classes to consultations with oncology nurse navigators, numerous support groups, and a salon for wig, breast prosthesis and bra fittings. In five short years, Canopy has become one of the preeminent leaders in survivorship centers, welcoming guests from around the region to learn more about the culture and programming they have created. Canopy is pioneering the effort to change the conversation about what survivorship means, seeking to not only support individuals during their continued medical plans of care, but also caring for them spiritually and emotionally. Visitors to Canopy instantly find a second family to walk alongside each patient, caregiver and family member through one of life’s most challenging medical diagnoses.
Pictured L-R, Front Row: Catherine Giegerich, Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center; Justin Kendrick, Senior Vice President & Chief Executive Officer, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center; Amanda Poole, Manager, Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center; Lucy Gomez, Vice President Programs & Operations, Interfaith of The Woodlands Back Row: Missy Herndon, President & CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands; Linda Nelson, Director of Business Development, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center pictured with staff and volunteers.
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands has seen exponential growth since opening its doors in 2016. The expert pediatric care offered at this 74-bed hospital means patients don’t need to drive into the Texas Medical Center for top-tier treatment. It is the area's first true, freestanding pediatric hospital designed, equipped and staffed exclusively to treat children and adolescents. The 22-acre site includes the only pediatric Level IV trauma center in the north region of Houston, a recently recertified Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and the Texas Children's Urgent Care Clinic. It is the first local pediatric hospital to receive accreditation by the American College of Radiology. The hospital is widely recognized for its state-of-the-art orthopedic surgery and care, and is home to more than 41 pediatric subspecialties including Cancer and Hematology, Bariatric Surgery, Infectious Disease and Sports Medicine. No other pediatric hospital in the country is a national medical partner of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, treating the unique sport-related ailments of high level, competitive athletes. Additionally, Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands is proud to have administered more than 32,000 COVID-19 vaccinations since January of 2021, following pediatric patient approval by the CDC.
Pictured L-R: Michelle Riley-Brown, President, Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands; Ketrese White, Vice President, Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands; Missy Herndon, President & CEO, Interfaith 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 surrounding area. Interfaith provides basic needs assistance and special programs to families experiencing financial crisis, and supportive service through care and wellness programs to senior adults, 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.
INTERFAITH ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY-WIDE HOLIDAY GIVING CAMPAIGN
INTERFAITH ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT TO SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM
GIVING GOES GLAM DONATES OVER 200 MEALS TO LOCAL HOSPITALS
Ticket holders enjoyed a New York–style runway show highlighting the latest fashion trends by Saks Fifth Avenue, styled by renowned Houston fashion event producer, Lenny Matuszewski and Senior Fashion Stylist, Tamara Klosz Bonar. Special highlights of the show were the 12 community models, each celebrated for their exemplary volunteerism and service on behalf of Interfaith and Junior League. Jennifer Bulovas, Carol Durkee, Alison Judge, Michelle Little, Chad Miller, Kathryne Pruitt, Katie Schonert, Brooke Schmitt, Mike Seder, Lonny Soza, Rikki Speck and Blake Wilcox were honored for their long-standing commitment to various philanthropic activities throughout the region.
The Woodlands “hometown” social service organization, Interfaith of The Woodlands, continues its tradition of helping our neighbors in need through extensive programs, services, and projects directly developed out of community need. For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services or to become a volunteer, please visit woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.
Junior League of The Woodlands is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, 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 Junior League of The Woodlands, please visit jlthewoodlands.org or call 281-376-5754.
LOCAL AGENCIES JOIN FORCES TO HELP STUDENTS IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY PREPARE FOR A SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL YEAR
As families continue to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic or just struggling to make ends
meet, the school supply assistance through Community Assistance Center and Interfaith of The
Woodlands provided children the confidence to start the 2021-2022 school year prepared.
“I am grateful to a community of caring neighbors and donors who continue to support our efforts
to help families in need,” said Missy Herndon, President and CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands.
“Between their support, and the collaboration with Community Assistance Center and The Ark
Church, nearly 1,400 children in our County will be able to start school, prepared for success, like
their peers. I am so proud of the teams who came together to make this endeavor possible and
look forward to growing the event in the coming years.”
“We are so grateful for the opportunity to partner with Interfaith of The Woodlands and the Ark
Church for this Back to School distribution! We are focused on strengthening our collaborative
efforts throughout Montgomery County and this has been a great start to reaching our goal of bringing many more entities together next year in efforts to provide County wide event for
students and their families to receive all the help and resources they need to start the school year
off ready for success,” shared Jennifer Landers, Executive Director of Community Assistance
Center.
About Community Assistance Center:
Community Assistance Center has proudly served Montgomery County since 1981. They are a
non-profit 501(c)(3) social services organization that provides basic needs services and long-term
case management to individuals and families throughout Montgomery County who are struggling
through times of financial hardships. For more information, visit cac-mctx.org or call 936-539-
1096.
About Interfaith of The Woodlands:
Interfaith of The Woodlands is a non-profit social service agency providing numerous programs
and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands 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.Media Inquiries
Marketing & Communications Manager
Office (281) 367-1230
