Rebuild Texas Fund is sponsored by OneStar Foundation. Supports long-term recovery and resilience in Texas communities affected by disasters through flexible, locally driven funding.

Rebuild Texas Fund - OneStar Foundation Rebuild Texas > Rebuild Texas Fund Strengthening disaster impacted communities through the power of giving Donate to Rebuild Texas Fund We provide funding that strengthens recovery infrastructure, fills local gaps, and accelerates long-term rebuilding after disaster.

The Rebuild Texas Fund helps communities across Texas recover from disasters—both large and small—through flexible, locally driven funding. Established in 2017 after Hurricane Harvey, the Rebuild Texas Fund has become a trusted vehicle for directing charitable contributions where they’re needed most.

Working hand in hand with local partners, the Fund supports long-term recovery and resilience while strengthening local capacity, promoting equity, and helping communities rebuild stronger than before Thanks to generous support from Texas Mutual, 100% of donations reach local organizations providing essential recovery services, long-term rebuilding operations, and infrastructure repair in Texas communities.

Looking to support disaster recovery in Texas? Please visit RebuildTX. org to make a donation.

The Rebuild Texas Fund works directly with communities affected by disasters to understand their changing needs and strengths. We carefully vet and partner with trusted local organizations that can manage funds responsibly and transparently. Our funding decisions are informed by real-time information, community feedback, and input from local leaders to identify unmet needs and fill critical funding gaps.

We simplify the funding process by reducing the administrative burden community organizations while maintaining strong accountability and measurable impact.

Rebuild Texas Fund distributes funding through three primary formats to support community-led disaster recovery across the state: In communities with strong local organizations already in place, we provide funding directly to a trusted local partner – such as a community foundation, local government agency, or established nonprofit – through a formal agreement.

These partners are chosen for their deep community connections, transparent leadership, and proven ability to manage resources effectively. This approach enables funds to reach communities quickly and efficiently while ensuring local control and accountability.

Long-Term Recovery Group Support We help establish and sustain Long-Term Recovery Groups (LTRGs) – local coalitions of nonprofits, faith-based organizations, volunteers, and community leaders that coordinate recovery efforts after disasters. LTRGs play a vital role in identifying unmet needs, managing assistance for survivors, and aligning resources to ensure an inclusive, community-led recovery process.

Our funding supports the infrastructure needed to launch or strengthen an LTRG including staffing, planning, volunteer coordination, and community outreach. This approach empowers each community to design its own recovery strategy based on local priorities and needs. We fund nonprofit and public-sector programs that help communities recover from disasters and build long-term resilience.

Funded projects typically focus on key areas such as community & economic development, education & child care, health, housing, and workforce & transportation. We prioritize funding for programs that serve historically underserved populations or regions with limited access to charitable resources, especially those addressing urgent or emerging needs created or worsened by disaster.

Central Texas Flood Recovery Long-Term Recovery Group Support Grants [Invitation only] Due to limited availability of funding, the current round of grant applications is restricted by invitation only.

Empty heading OneStar Foundation is announcing the availability of grant funding through the Central Texas Flood Recovery Fund to support Long-Term Recovery Groups leading recovery efforts resulting from severe weather in July 2025 that was declared by the Governor of Texas and President of the United States as a major disaster (TDEM: 25-0026 02JUL; FEMA: DR-4879).

Grants are made available to select organizations to support dedicated staffing, as well as other critical unmet needs essential to your long-term recovery efforts in impacted counties. Nonprofit Status: Applicants must be nonprofit organizations with current 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status as recognized by the IRS (IRS determination letter required).

Fiscal Sponsorship (if applicable): Organizations without 501(c)(3) status may apply under the sponsorship of a qualified 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor. Designated Long-Term Recovery Group: Applicants must be the designated Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG) serving the county(ies) for which they are requesting funds.

Applicants must include a letter or similar documentation from local leadership (e.g., county judge, emergency management, VOAD, or other recognized authority) confirming that the applicant is the designated LTRG for the area. Scope of Services: Applicants must be providing disaster recovery services for impacted individuals and households in their community for the July 2025 disaster.

This typically includes activities such as disaster case management, volunteer management, donations management, fundraising, and construction/rebuild coordination. OneStar understands that the specific services provided may vary based on local needs.

Grant Type: General Operating Grant – Funding must support dedicated staffing, such as case managers, volunteer coordinators, construction managers, donations and warehouse managers, and/or leadership positions, as well as other critical unmet needs essential to long-term recovery efforts.

Grant Amount: Varies based on applicant Grant Term: 1 year (12 months) Organizations that meet eligibility criteria should submit a proposal application via OneStar Foundation’s online portal no later than 11:59 PM, September 30, 2025 . Proposals will be scored based on alignment with our funding priorities. The OneStar Foundation Board of Directors has final approval of all grant awards.

Thursday, August 21, 2025 Tuesday, September 30, 2025 From preparedness checklists to recovery assistance, these resources are tailored to help nonprofits lead in times of disaster. Resource designed to support small businesses and nonprofits in Texas prepare for, weather, and recover from disasters, bringing together information, tools, and partners in a centralized way.

Leverage this site for best practices, planning resources, and connecting clients to preparedness and recovery supports. Offers information on reporting damage, emergency registries, preparedness, and state & federal resources for Texans impacted by disaster. Help connect affected survivors with assistance, stay informed about disaster declarations, and align with state response systems.

Guidance on how Texans can access disaster‑related help from state health & human services programs (e.g. food, medical, counseling) during and after emergencies. Help clients understand what state assistance is available and to coordinate service delivery within existing programs.

Central hub for preparedness before disasters, providing tools, guides, and resources to help communities, organizations, and individuals plan for a wide range of hazards.

Go‑to source to build capacity in emergency planning, readiness checklists, communication plans, and resilient operations so they can maintain service through crises Federal portal where individuals and organizations can apply for disaster relief, find forms, check the status of applications, and get connected to recovery resources.

Guide clients/families in navigating federal aid (e.g. FEMA), coordinating with government assistance, and understanding eligibility and application processes.

For More Information on Rebuild Texas Fund Pet picture pillow Dog picture blanket Photo wrapping paper Custom pet socks Pet picture pillow Birthday wrapping paper Custom underwear AmeriCorps Legacy of Service Award Nicole Gabler turned her AmeriCorps service with SWIFT in Schulenburg and Weimar in 2013 to 2015 into a lifelong commitment to community.

After earning her master’s degree in Nonprofit Management with her education award, she went on to support families at Texas Children’s Hospital and now serves children with critical illnesses through Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana. Nicole is also a deeply engaged volunteer. As President of the Junior League of Galveston County, she launched a Juneteenth book initiative that has reached thousands of children.

She also helped create Adaptive Access Tours at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and serves as a dedicated Girl Scout leader. BOUNCE Student Disaster Recovery Rebuild Texas Disaster Impact Award BOUNCE mobilizes middle school, high school, and college students to support disaster recovery across Texas and beyond.

Working with local partners, for the last 12 years, the organization has deployed youth volunteers to repair homes, rebuild community spaces, and support families recovering from storms and flooding. Teams come fully equipped with their own tools, transportation, and supplies, easing the burden on recovery organizations. Students perform significant tasks including roofing, demolition, flooring, painting, and home repair.

After Hurricane Beryl, BOUNCE sent 82 volunteers to Jefferson County to assist families impacted by Hurricane Beryl and helped remodel a donated warehouse for recovery use. Since 2022, more than 880 students have served with remarkable dedication and teamwork.

Lifelong Learning with Friends Lifelong Learning with Friends expands the University of Texas experience to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by offering inclusive classes where each participant learns alongside a UT student volunteer. Since 2010, more than 700 adult learners and 1,600 university students have taken part in courses spanning science, arts, culture, and life skills.

The program fosters confidence, friendships, and intellectual growth for adults with disabilities while cultivating civic responsibility among college students. Through thoughtful curriculum design and meaningful relationships, Lifelong Learning with Friends creates a campus community where people of all abilities learn and grow together.

Ark of Highland Lakes is a faith-driven organization uniting churches, agencies, and volunteers to serve families in crisis across the Highland Lakes region. Born after the 2018 floods, Ark provides disaster relief, food, hygiene, dental care, donated goods, and long-term transformation.

In 2025, Ark launched Valley View Village, a self-sustaining community that combines housing with income-generating opportunities and Christ-centered support to help families break generational cycles of poverty. Ark has also led the long-term recovery for Burnet and Llano County after the July 4th, 2025 flood, recruiting and training 840 volunteers.

Ark works to unite hands in serving, heal hearts who are hurting and vulnerable, and transform communities through love and resilience. NiHao Food Bank Initiative Founded in 2021 as a cultural affinity group of the North Texas Food Bank, the NiHao Food Bank Initiative has delivered nearly 3 million meals to neighbors facing hunger.

The volunteer-driven group unites families, youth, and community partners to strengthen food security through monthly packing events, cultural fundraisers, restaurant collaborations, and civic advocacy. In 2025, NiHao volunteers supported the passage of HB 26 (“Food Is Medicine”) and raised the equivalent of 120,000 meals through its 2026 Community Meal Reward Card.

Creative events such as its annual charity concert further elevate awareness and engage diverse supporters across Dallas–Fort Worth. KENS 5, San Antonio’s Own For a decade, KENS 5 has been an anchor of mentorship and community service in San Antonio.

Through its partnership with Communities In Schools of San Antonio, station staff mentor high school students through the InspireU Workplace Mentors program, helping them build confidence, communication skills, and a clear vision for their futures. KENS 5 also plays a pivotal role in the annual Stuff The Bus School Supply Drive, using its platform to inspire generosity across the city. In 2024, the station delivered more than 5.

9 million impressions through coverage that helped equip students in 140 schools with the supplies they need to succeed. Kendra Scott has built a company where philanthropy and giving back are core pillars of the brand. Through a dedicated philanthropy department and the Kendra Scott Foundation, the company empowers women and youth in health and wellness, education, and entrepreneurship.

Signature programs such as Kendra Cares have brought the magic of the Color Bar to pediatric hospitals for over 10 years, while the Yellow Library program has supported 24 Title I elementary schools across Texas, expanding access to books and literacy resources.

In 2025 alone, more than 12,000 Kendra Gives Back events were held in partnership with local nonprofits nationwide, and employees contributed over 9,000 volunteer hours in their communities. Following the devastation in Central Texas, Kendra Scott raised more than $500,000 and collected essential supplies across the state to support immediate relief and long-term rebuilding efforts.

The company continues to champion meaningful, sustained impact in the communities it serves. For more than 30 years, CITGO has embedded volunteerism into its company culture through TeamCITGO, mobilizing employees, retirees, and contractors to strengthen communities across Houston and the Coastal Bend. In 2025 alone, volunteers contributed 9,074 hours with 135 causes and financially contributed to 846 causes.

CITGO leads major initiatives in hunger relief, education, environmental stewardship, and community wellness. Programs include its long-running Caring for the Coast program, which has generated over 200,000 volunteer hours, 40% of which occurred in Texas and the Gulf Coast. Additional contributions in Texas supported more than 2.

3 million pounds of food redistribution in Houston and 140,000 meals in South Texas. CITGO’s sustained, collaborative service reflects its deep Texas roots and commitment to community partnership. Oscar, Yolanda & Adrian Cisneros Volunteer Family of the Year Award After losing their young son Alex to cancer, the Cisneros family transformed their grief into service.

Inspired by the joy Alex found in Creative Kids’ hospital art program, Yolanda, Oscar, and Adrian started volunteer weekly with Project RAP, supporting children affected by trauma in El Paso. For the last 18 years, through patient guidance and creative expression, they help young people process fear, rebuild confidence, and experience moments of healing.

Their presence offers comfort drawn from lived experience, and every child they support carries forward Alex’s spirit. The family’s compassion has become a powerful source of hope. Volunteer of the Year Award After the July 4 flood devastated Hunt and western Kerr County, John Dunn became a central leader driving the region’s recovery.

As President of Hunt Preservation Society and Board Chair of Kerr Together Long-Term Recovery Group, John organized relief operations and, working alongside the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country and other partners, secured over $10 million in private and foundation funding to support home repairs, emergency aid, and water system restoration.

John convened local, state, and federal partners and mobilized builders, volunteers, and case managers to accelerate rebuilding of homes and businesses. John’s thousands of hours of service have restored hope and helped revitalize the community, and his leadership continues to shape a stronger, more resilient Hill Country community.

First Lady’s Rising Star Award A nationally recognized youth environmental leader, Asvini Thivakaran began advocating for battery recycling in second grade, collecting more than 65,000 batteries and inspiring the City of Round Rock to adopt a permanent program that has now diverted over 100,000 batteries from landfills.

She later founded Electrify Your Thoughts to expand STEM opportunities for underserved students, partnering with Title I schools to reach more than 1,000 young people and mentor over 100 science fair participants. Her students have advanced to regional competitions with high honors. Asvini’s work blends environmental stewardship, education, and youth empowerment, shaping the next generation of scientists and leaders.

Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award Motivated by the loss of his father, a police officer killed in the line of duty, Timothy Stroud founded the Killeen Police Department Law Enforcement Assistance Fund in 2006. The entirely volunteer-run fund has provided over $1. 4 million in direct support to officers, civilian staff, and families facing crisis.

Tim also leads impactful programs for veterans through Stay Tuned for Vets, offering arts-based mental health support, equine therapy, and large-scale community resource events. His leadership with Operation Turkey Houston helps deliver more than 11,000 Thanksgiving meals annually. Tim’s compassion and service continue to strengthen and uplift vulnerable families across Texas.

Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award Darrell Rodenbaugh started volunteering with North Texas Performing Arts 19 years ago and has devoted over a decade of full-time service to the organization, leading its transformation into the nation’s largest youth theatre organization. Under his volunteer leadership, NTPA has grown twelvefold, expanded to five locations, and now serves more than 11,000 students annually.

Darrell has developed innovative programs in youth protection, character leadership, artist employment and led teams raising millions in philanthropic support. His hands-on commitment ranges from designing curricula to constructing light rigging and seating systems in new theaters. Darrell’s work has created lasting opportunities for young performers and strengthened arts communities across North Texas.

Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award Since retiring in 1995 after over 30 years with the U.S. Secret Service, Dave Freriks has served nearly three decades as the volunteer Disaster Services Coordinator for The Salvation Army in the Texas South Plains. He has built and trained a network of responders who have supported almost 700,000 people affected by fires, floods, tornadoes, and emergencies in Texas and throughout the South.

Dave has also contributed 30 years of service as a Salvation Army board member and is a key leader in Lubbock’s Lions Club and Red Kettle Campaign, helping raise more than $5 million. His steady leadership, compassion, and presence have made him a trusted force for good in West Texas. Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award For nearly three decades, Larry Dolan has been a steady voice for children in Dallas’ child welfare system.

As Dallas CASA’s longest-serving volunteer since 1997, he has advocated for more than one hundred children, ensuring their needs and wishes are heard in court and helping secure safe, permanent homes. Larry also mentors new volunteers, generously sharing his experience and compassion. One of his most powerful impacts came full circle when a former child he supported returned as a CASA volunteer—still remembering Larry by name.

His dedication continues to shape young lives and inspire others to serve. AmeriCorps Legacy of Service Award Ashley Harris-Land’s service journey began as a full-time AmeriCorps member at Legacy Community Health (2018–2019), where she modernized curriculum, coordinated prenatal education, and became a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician.

Now the AmeriCorps Program Director, she expanded the program from 9 to 70+ members, enhancing mentorship, professional development, and career pathways. Ashley played key roles in tech transitions, COVID-19 response efforts, and major fundraising events. She also volunteers with Connect Community, and serves as a speaker to inspire others with her AmeriCorps journey.

Jasper Newton Long-Term Recovery Group (Jasper & Newton Counties) Rebuild Texas Disaster Impact San Jacinto College integrates service-learning to foster civic responsibility and practical skill development among students. Its Service-Learning Council ensures projects benefit both students and the community.

A flagship project is See to Succeed , where Eye Care Technology students volunteered to help provide over 1,300 students with vision care in 2024. Since 2013, service-learning has spanned disciplines: Biology students restore parks, History students document oral histories, and English students combat senior isolation by creating greeting cards.

San Jacinto College celebrates its student volunteers, who excel academically while gaining essential skills and fostering a commitment to community service. Universal City Volunteer Corps The Universal City Volunteer Corps comprises four groups that raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities in the close-knit community of 20,000.

Parks Partners has raised six figures in nine years through its Pumpkin Patch event, benefiting 27 charities. The Universal City Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (UCCPAAA) collaborates with police on community programs like Blue Santa and support for the Citizens Police Academy. The Friends of the Universal City Public Library raises funds to support essential library resources.

Homes for Homeless Pets has contributed nearly $500,000 to Universal City’s animal shelter. Beyond fundraising, the Corps also supports students, aids animals, and honors military families, strengthening pride in Universal City. Thrivent, a Fortune 500 financial services company, empowers generosity by helping clients support their communities.

In 2024, Thrivent’s Texas clients donated 492,000+ volunteer hours and over $27 million to verified nonprofits. Thrivent focuses efforts through two key programs: Thrivent Action Teams and Thrivent Choice®. Thrivent Action Teams mobilized 73,000+ volunteers across 5,000 teams in Texas, while the Thrivent Choice® program directed $1.

2 million to 1,300 Texas nonprofits. Overall, Thrivent staff and clients in Texas demonstrate an extraordinary culture of generosity. Thrivent’s approach is an honorable example of a purpose-driven financial services company that is deeply committed to helping people use their finances to support the causes they care about most.

ServiceMaster of Wichita Falls Under Michael and Deana Albert’s leadership, ServiceMaster of Wichita Falls has been an indispensable partner to Meals on Wheels Wichita County. Since September 2023, they have delivered meals weekly, and provided additional support by sending extra drivers on both delivery and non-delivery days.

Last year, their team served over one hundred volunteer hours and provided more than 1,200 meals, far ex9ceeding the average commitment. Whether braving bad weather or stepping in on short notice to cover extra routes, they provide consistent, compassionate service. Their dedication ensures vulnerable community members receive their meals, often sacrificing personal time to fill gaps when needed most.

Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA) has partnered with the Fort Bend Women’s Center (FBWC) for over 30 years, donating more than $400,000 since 2016 and serving as its most active volunteer group. PCCA employees participate in annual Cares Day events, helping with shelter renovations, fundraising, and community support programs. They also organize supply drives, holiday toy collections, and school back to school support.

With employees serving on FBWC’s board, PCCA’s dedication exemplifies its core values of “Care Deeply” and “Serve Always,” fostering hope and resilience within the community. The Aghili-Jacquier Family Volunteer Family of the Year Award The Aghili-Jacquier family founded Jack Jack’s Pack (JJP), a volunteer-driven rescue saving abused and abandoned dogs and cats.

Led by Sasha Aghili-Jacquier, alongside her husband, children, and her mother, JJP focuses on extreme neglect cases, providing medical care, rehabilitation, and loving homes. They track lost pets, rescue animals from euthanasia, and personally foster many rescues. Sasha integrates the rescue into homeschooling, teaching empathy and community service.

JJP tirelessly raises funds for food, supplies, and veterinary care, ensuring every rescued animal receives a second chance at life with care and dignity.

Volunteer of the Year Award Since 2022, Eric Duvoe has volunteered over 3,000 hours as a volunteer chaplain for several Texas organizations, including Central Texas law enforcement agencies, providing critical support to first responders, victims, families, and crime scene investigators during crises.

His compassionate presence, from notifying next of kin, grief counseling, and spiritual care, helps individuals navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. With 24 years as a chaplain, Eric is implementing BlueBridge Alliance, a nonprofit program strengthening community-police relationships by assisting individuals and families in need.

His dedication fosters trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, and boosts morale within agencies. Volunteer of the Year Award Samir Becic has dedicated 20+ years to promoting health and fitness in Texas, serving as Houston’s Fitness Czar and founder of the Samir Becic Foundation.

Since 2012, he has volunteered over 8,000 hours, hosting health events, supporting first responders, and launching the “Walking Out of Homelessness” campaign. His Health Fitness Revolution movement has reached over 2 million Texans with free health resources.

Honored with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award and a Houston proclamation naming January 10, 2023, “Samir Becic Day,” Samir is the first Texan to receive the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition Hero Award, inspiring healthier lives statewide. First Lady’s Rising Star Award Shreya Poladia founded Art for a Cause in seventh grade to raise awareness and funds to address critical community needs through art.

Inspired by her brother with Autism and Down Syndrome, she has led fundraisers supporting the Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas, teachers during the pandemic, Safe in Austin, and Oak Creek Academy. Since 2020, she has raised over $8,800. Through art shows, camps, and virtual galleries, Shreya has promoted inclusion for people with disabilities.

Her impact has earned her the Congressional Award Gold Medal, Presidential Volunteer Service Gold Medal, and the George H. W. Bush Daily Point of Light Award.

First Lady’s Rising Star Award Through Art4All, Miriam Khan has raised over $5,000 to provide art supplies for 40+ Texas classrooms, focusing on schools with the greatest needs. She expanded nationally, creating a chapter system to replicate her model with fundraising guides and supply distribution plans.

As a Creative Services Intern with the Pangea Network, she helped lead marketing efforts for the Young Women’s Leadership Conference at Rice University, promoting financial literacy, emotional intelligence, and community service. Miriam’s work has empowered students to develop artistic skills, build leadership, and drive social impact, reflecting her deep commitment to education and community engagement.

First Lady’s Rising Star Award Hannah Ho co-founded Address Teen Stress (ATS), a youth-led nonprofit tackling mental health disparities among underserved teens. Over three years, she connected 20,000+ teens across four countries with mental health resources, launching a podcast and hosting workshops in multiple languages to combat stigma and promote education. Partnering with NAMI, her work has been recognized internationally.

She also founded Insulin Insight, reaching 4,000+ individuals with diabetes education and support navigating the healthcare system. As valedictorian, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) president, and a Congressional Youth Council member, Hannah advocates for evidence-based healthcare and transformative policies around mental health and chronic disease management. Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award Wayne R.

Maynard’s service journey began with flying his brother-in-law to cancer treatment, inspiring him to join Angel Flight South Central (AFSC) as a volunteer pilot in 2004. Over 20 years, he has completed 308 missions, covering all costs himself. As Northeast Texas Wing Leader and later AFSC’s Board Chair, Wayne expanded pilot recruitment, revamped bylaws, and established a pilot recognition program.

His fundraising efforts, including solo flights to the North Pole and the annual Mission Possible: Soaring Hearts Gala, have secured over $1 million for AFSC, ensuring life-saving medical transport and inspiring others to support the mission. Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award For over 25 years, Ruth Jordan has been a tireless advocate for San Angelo State Park and a dedicated community leader.

She founded Friends of San Angelo State Park in 1998, spearheading events like the R. A. N.

G. E. Outdoors kids’ camp, Silver Bluebonnet Day, and the Monarch Trail Ride.

Beyond the park, she has served on the Texans for State Parks Board of Directors for 18 years and contributed to organizations like the Girl Scouts, Healthy Families of San Angelo, and Mosaic, earning the 2008 Girl Scouts’ Woman of Distinction award. A retired teacher, she remains actively involved in fostering education and community engagement.

Orange County Disaster Rebuild Rebuild Texas Disaster Impact Award Established in May 2018, Orange County Disaster Rebuild (OCDR) is a formidable force in disaster response, addressing eight significant events, including Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Laura. Their impactful service transcends challenges, raising over $3. 2 million in critical unmet needs assistance in Orange County, Texas.

OCDR repaired over 300 homes, built 16 new homes, and replaced 11 destroyed mobile homes/RVs, allocating $420,000 for furniture and appliances. Engaging more than 2,500 out-of-area volunteers, they foster strong relationships with local, state, and federal entities, nonprofits, churches, businesses, and communities.

OCDR’s robust community programs, partnerships with local government, and commitment to securing funds and resources underscore their positive impact and stellar reputation. AmeriCorps Legacy of Service Award In her AmeriCorps VISTA tenure from 2021 to 2023 and beyond, Katrina Huffman has profoundly impacted the Brady community, addressing hunger-related issues through visionary leadership.

Hailing from an area where food pantries serve over a quarter of the population, Katrina’s VISTA actions stemmed from deep conviction and unwavering passion. As part of her VISTA service, she coordinated and expanded the Hunger Coalition, uniting nonprofits and other community stakeholders to eradicate hunger. Katrina’s strategic thinking and organizational prowess elevated the coalition to a recognized 501(c)(3) organization.

She organized fundraisers, hosted local food drives, and initiated a client-choice food pantry. Even after VISTA, as a dedicated volunteer, Katrina continues the relentless pursuit of a hunger-free future, marking her as a catalyst for change in Brady. AmeriCorps Legacy of Service Award In 2010, Joe Carreón served as an AmeriCorps member with Food On The Move, a hunger relief program providing summer meals for over 10,000 kids.

Since then, he has remained dedicated to the Bachman Lake community of Dallas, currently serving as President of the Bachman-Northwest Highway Community Association, a founding member of the Friends of Bachman Lake, and board member for Equal Heart, a national model for anti-hunger efforts.

His insight and commitment to addressing food insecurity is enhanced through his experiences within the Dallas Mayor’s Office, The Office of the Colorado Governor, and the White House. Currently, Joe is a member of the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees.

He regularly leads community initiatives like clean-up days, workshops, public-private partnerships, and mentoring programs, showcasing exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to community service. Arlington Classics Academy Arlington Classics Academy has embedded volunteerism and fostered empathy and responsibility in its community culture for 25 years.

The Griffin Goodfellows program, a core initiative, engages students in diverse community service projects, volunteer activities, and fundraisers. Collaborations with Mission Arlington and the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Mayoral Challenge result in significant contributions, with students collecting more than 27,000 canned food items and donating an average of $624 annually.

The program goes beyond traditional philanthropy, including initiatives like Rucks for Trucks, Toys for Tots, and support for organizations such as Patriot Paws. Approximately 100 students receive the Griffin Goodfellow Award annually, fostering a sense of accomplishment and shaping socially responsible, empathetic leaders for over two decades.

City of Longview Partners in Prevention Partners in Prevention, a catalyst for positive change in Longview, tackles community challenges through youth development, poverty alleviation, unity, diversity, and substance use prevention.

At its core is the Aspire Mentoring Program (AMP), which engages 86 adult volunteers investing an average of four hours monthly to build impactful one-to-one relationships with children from low-income households. With 85% of beneficiaries relying on free or reduced lunch, AMP plays a vital role in supporting vulnerable youth.

Initiatives like Longview Bridges Out of Poverty, Unity and Diversity Committee, and Coalition for Drug-Free Youth address barriers through community mobilization. Volunteers logged 5,363 hours last year, with significant dedication to AMP. Academy 4’s innovative programs have profoundly impacted Tarrant County communities, fostering mentorship and leadership development in schools serving high-poverty populations.

Originating at Daggett Elementary School in 2012, it has expanded to 45 schools across 15 districts in Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin. Engaging over 4,000 volunteers in mentorship, its 11th year witnessed impactful expansions, including Leaders 5 and 4Families, to address broader family needs. The Full Circle Scholars program exemplifies a commitment to full-circle impact, with high school seniors returning to serve in elementary schools.

Diverse volunteers, aged 16 to over 90, underscore the community’s collective commitment to nurturing the next generation. McCoy’s Building Supply fosters a culture deeply rooted in community care since its founding in 1927. In the aftermath of Hurricane Carla in 1961, their principled stance against opportunistic pricing earned them a reputation for fairness.

In the 1980s, McCoy’s elevated community support to a guiding priority, creating a statewide culture