INTERFAITH CELEBRATES COMMUNITY AND HONORS HOMETOWN HEROES
The Woodlands, TX (Thursday, April 7, 2022) — The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence Gala, presented by Huntsman, welcomed over 600 guests at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center on Friday, April 1st.
Co-chaired by DeAnn Guidry and Nicole Murphy, the gala themed, “The Miracle of Interfaith,” honored the 2022 Hometown Heroes. The evening was dedicated to Rev. Don Gebert, Interfaith’s Founding Executive Director that passed away in March 2021.
Upon arrival, guests entered the pre-function area enjoying a champagne reception, live music, 3-D photo booth, a ring pull and bid boards showcasing many incredible items.
Will Murphy, Interfaith Board of Directors Chairman along with Julie Mayrant, Interfaith Board of Directors Vice-Chair welcomed guests alongside Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands to the 21st annual gala. Nelda Blair, long-time supporter and friend to Interfaith thanked the many sponsors that made the evening possible. Dr. Ann Snyder, Interfaith Board of Advisors, recognized the 1st group of 1999 Hometown Heroes and shared a special memorial video.
Gala guests heard from Chris Davis, Managing Partner at Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crabhouse. Davis shared stories from wait staff that were impacted by Covid-19 who turned to Interfaith for help. Interfaith provided wait staff with rent/mortgage assistance, utilities assistance, gas cards and food from Interfaith Food Pantry that were unable to meet their basic needs.
Will Murphy and Rob Johnson inspired guests to give back so Interfaith can continue to provide services to families and senior adults in need. On average, Interfaith serves 500 families a month. This year’s event raised $450,000 for crisis assistance in South Montgomery County.
The Live Auction was a huge success including: trips to Napa, Whistler, Cabo, an exquisite Mark Pharo custom designed necklace and earrings, stunning diamond studs by Thomas Markle, Texans tickets and a Bryce Young autographed football.
This year’s recipients officially joined 144 other distinguished individuals, businesses and organizations. The 2022 Hometown Heroes: Paula Klapesky, Walt Lisiewski, Tim Welbes, Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands represented by Ketrese White, Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, represented by Justin Kendrick, and an Anonymous donor received a medallion and a U.S. House of Representatives Commendation presented by United States Congressman Kevin Brady.
“This Gala is symbolic of The Woodlands representing neighbors helping neighbors in the name of service. Each year, our community comes together to celebrate the gift of generosity, the impact of supporting our neighbors and to honor our Hometown Heroes,” said Missy Herndon, President & CEO Interfaith of The Woodlands, “This year was extremely special as our community, once again, came back together to love and care for our neighbors in need.”
Immediately following the program, the celebration continued with live music from Bucktown All-Stars, late night bites and more. 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.