Tag Archives: the woodlands

INTERFAITH ANNOUNCES COMMUNITY-WIDE HOLIDAY GIVING CAMPAIGN

November 8, 2021
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THE WOODLANDS, TX (Monday, November 8, 2021) – As the 2021 holiday season approaches, Interfaith of The Woodlands is making plans to assist families, children and seniors in need through the annual Interfaith Holiday GIVING programs.

Interfaith invites our community to celebrate with the gift of giving by participating in the Holiday GIVING programs, each of which helps brighten the holiday season with gifts and food for our neighbors in need: Adopt-A-Family, Toy Drive, and Gifts For Seniors. Each program enables Interfaith, with the help of our generous community and volunteers, to meet the very specific needs of those in need this holiday season.

Adopt-A-Family program matches community sponsors to families in need of help. Interfaith provides a list of gift ideas for the sponsored family members. Holiday Toy Drive offers the community an opportunity to collect toys for children of all ages. Families requesting assistance are able to choose gifts for their children from a variety of donated toys. Gifts for Seniors program provides hand-delivered holiday gifts to senior adults, ages 62 and older, in need of holiday cheer.

Interfaith invites all community members to hold food drives and collect non-perishable items to fill our pantry shelves. This is especially a great time to collect holiday food items. Click here to see our Holiday Food Pantry needs. In addition, Interfaith will be accepting Walmart gift cards in $25 increments and grocery gift cards in $20 increments to distribute to our families and seniors for holiday assistance. If your business or organization would like to hold a food, toy or gift card drive, Interfaith can provide you with a list of suggestions.

“Each year, thousands of children and Seniors receive food, gifts and holiday cheer through Interfaith, donated by our amazing community,” said Missy Herndon, President and CEO, Interfaith of The Woodlands. “Our goal is the bring people together in the name of service. We believe everyone deserves to celebrate the holidays, feel loved and cared for. Our programs and wonderful donors make that mission possible.”

For details on all Interfaith Holiday GIVING programs, including how to get involved, important dates and contacts, or for assistance, please visit woodlandsinterfaith.org/holidaygiving or call 281-367-1230.

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.

GIVING GOES GLAM DONATES OVER 200 MEALS TO LOCAL HOSPITALS

August 30, 2021
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The Woodlands, TX (August 30, 2021) The Giving Goes Glam virtual event benefiting Interfaith of The Woodlands and Junior League of The Woodlands was held on Friday, August 27th. Sponsors and guests attended watch parties to view this year’s Giving Goes Glam with special remarks from Master of Ceremonies, Ian Ramirez, Co-chairs – Erin Doré and Brianna Masterson, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, Missy Herndon and 2020-2021 President of Junior League of The Woodlands, Jennifer Sheehan. Presenting Sponsor St. Luke’s Health and Exclusive Automotive Sponsor, SEWELL Automotive Companies, were joined by dozens of other generous businesses and individuals who made this event possible. Many sponsors and guests chose to graciously donate over 200 meals to local hospitals. Meals prepared by The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center were delivered to Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital, St. Luke’s Health and Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center.

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.

COVID-19 Update 3/20

March 23, 2020
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COVID-19 Update
3/20/2020

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.

𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗮𝘀 𝘄𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗰 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗴𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘆.

𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝟵𝗮𝗺-𝟰𝗽𝗺, 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 – 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆. 𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 “𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗯𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲” 𝗼𝗿 𝗯𝘆 𝗣𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲.

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!

𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐠𝐨𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐧𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝.
𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐇𝐄𝐋𝐏?

  • 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: Our biggest need in the coming weeks is Funding to be used for the following:

– To purchase bulk, specific and essential foods, toiletries and paper goods for food assistance for families and Seniors.

– Provide financial assistance (i.e. rent, mortgage, utilities, gas vouchers, and prescription assistance) to families and Seniors.

  • 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞: https://interfaith-of-the-woodlands.snwbll.com/covid-19-com…
  • 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.

𝐈𝐧 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠:

  • 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐣𝐨𝐛:
    𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐫𝐨𝐞 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝟗𝟑𝟔-𝟒𝟒𝟏-𝟎𝟎𝟑𝟕 𝐨𝐫 𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐥: 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐫𝐨𝐞@𝐰𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬.𝐜𝐨𝐦
  • 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 & 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝟐𝟖𝟏-𝟑𝟔𝟕-𝟏𝟐𝟑𝟎
  • 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐝: 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝟖𝟑𝟐-𝟔𝟏𝟓-𝟖𝟐𝟐𝟒
  • 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: 𝟐𝟖𝟏-𝟑𝟔𝟕-𝟏𝟐𝟑𝟎
  • 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐨𝐧-𝐂𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐃-𝟏𝟗 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝟐𝟖𝟏-𝟑𝟔𝟒-𝟕𝟖𝟖𝟗

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.

Kindest regards,
Missy
𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐲 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐧
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐄𝐎
𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬
𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞

 

 

Help Us Serve Home bound Seniors and Families in Crisis.

March 16, 2020
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Dear Neighbor,
We are in unprecedented times, so forgive us as messaging and activities are continuing to evolve as we work hard to assess and meet community needs while still working very hard to keep our staff, clients and customers as healthy as possible.
Our goal is to continue to serve our neighbors in need to the best of our ability.
Interfaith is continuing:
  • Senior Grocery Delivery, moving it from monthly to weekly
  • Crisis assistance services (i.e. rent, mortgage, utilities, gas vouchers, and prescription assistance) for Seniors and Families
  • Food Pantry Assistance for families includes three Food Bags filled with groceries for 5 meals, plus snacks, toilet paper and baby goods if needed. Bags are distributed by driving through our parking lot.

Our biggest need in the coming weeks is funding to purchase specific and essential foods, toiletries and paper goods in bulk from local grocery stores and The Food Bank. This funding ensures we are able to meet the community’s current food needs, as well as providing financial assistance to families and Seniors who are experiencing wage loss or additional crisis as related to business and school closures.

Donations to these efforts can be made here.

In the days and weeks ahead, we anticipate an increased need as our community responds to the Pandemic. Just as we have for nearly 47 years, Interfaith plans to walk alongside our neighbors in need. We are able to do that with your partnership and support.
Thank you for caring, stay safe, and healthy.
Missy Herndon
President and CEO

INTERFAITH INVITES COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE THROUGH HOLIDAY GIVING PROGRAMS

October 24, 2018
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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.

Interfaith Honors Hometown Heroes and Celebrates 45 Years of Caring

October 8, 2018
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THE WOODLANDS, TX (Monday, October 8, 2018) — The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence Gala, themed “45 Years of Caring,” welcomed 750 guests at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center Saturday, October 6.

The 19th annual event, co-chaired by Shirelle Chimenti and Elvira Graham, was dedicated to honoring the 2018 Hometown Heroes and celebrating Interfaith of The Woodlands’ 45th Anniversary. This year’s event raised $750,000 for crisis assistance in South Montgomery County.

Upon arrival, guests entered a beautifully lit ballroom filled with photos depicting Interfaith’s legacy of caring since it began in 1973. 11-year old harpist Elizabeth Howard entertained the guests with beautiful music while they enjoyed the silent auction and cocktail reception.

Rob Johnson, President of Interfaith’s Board of Directors, welcomed guests alongside Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands and celebrated Honorary Co-Chairs, Ann and Jerry Snyder.

During the evening’s program, Rev. Don Gebert, Founding Executive Director of Interfaith of The Woodlands, received The Mitchell Award in honor of his more than 40 years of service to The Woodlands Community. Alex Sutton, Co-President of The Woodlands Township, bestowed the honor on Gebert on behalf of The Mitchell Family. Gebert remarked, “We belong to each other! The bottom line of life is not strife, but love! That vision caused residents of every faith under the sun to rise up & reach out in service through Interfaith.”

Since 1999, Interfaith has recognized local heroes in the community by presenting them with the title of Hometown Hero. Touching videos played on the screens, reflecting their contributions in making a difference in the community. Congressman Kevin Brady presented each hero with a medallion and a Congressional Commendation. This year’s recipients were Dr. Joel Reed, Robert Heineman, Patti Rivela, Steve Leakey, Mrs. Brynn Ballard Huntsman and Mr. Peter Riley Huntsman, Entergy Texas Inc. and Junior League of The Woodlands.

The event offered fantastic live and silent auctions, featuring numerous excursions and unique items. Mark Pharo Extraordinary Jewels provided a 24 karat gold necklace featuring 16 multi-colored gemstones that one lucky winner claimed.

Interfaith typically serves 1,100 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 family get back on their feet. The impact of this storytelling was felt throughout the room as attendees were asked to lend their support. As each guest made a donation, they were handed a candle that was raised in homage to the thousands of clients Interfaith has assisted since opening its doors in 1973.

“We live in a community filled with incredible people,” says Herndon. “For 45 years Interfaith has walked alongside our neighbors in crisis. Sometimes it is a family dealing with a devastating medical diagnosis, a single parent coping with an unexpected job loss, or hundreds of our neighbors struggling after a natural disaster. 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.

Alex Sutton, Co-President of The Woodlands Development Company, presenting the Mitchell Award to Reverend Don Gebert, Executive Founder of Interfaith of The Woodlands.

Congressman Kevin Brady, Interfaith President and CEO, Missy Herndon, Interfaith Board Chairman Rob Johnson with 2018 Hometown Heroes.

Over 750 guests gathered at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention center

2018 Interfaith Staff

INTERFAITH ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM

September 7, 2018
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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

Holly Mayer, the new Director of Programs and Services at Interfaith of The Woodlands.

Carolyn Donovan

Carolyn Donovan, the new Director of Development at Interfaith of The Woodlands.

Day of Caring Announcement

August 30, 2018
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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

2018 Interfaith Staff

 

Missy Herndon and Rev Don Gebert

(l-r) Missy Herndon, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, standing with Rev. Don Gebert, Interfaith’s First Executive Director.

 

Rob Johnson serving Thanksgiving Meal

Rob Johnson (left), Board Director of Interfaith of The Woodlands, serves a complete Thanksgiving meal to senior adults at the South County Community Center.

Kits 4 Kidz Distribution

August 14, 2018
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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.