Author: DFW501c Reporter

Grant Halliburton Foundation kicks off 20th Anniversary with Luncheon fundraising success

More than 500 guests attend 17th annual luncheon, raising $335,000 for
youth mental health and suicide prevention programs in North Texas

Grant Halliburton Foundation hosted its 17th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on Friday, March 13 at the Omni Dallas Hotel, kicking off the organization’s 20th anniversary year. More than 500 guests gathered in support of the Foundation’s mission, helping to raise $335,000 for youth mental health and suicide prevention programs across North Texas.

The event featured keynote speaker Steve Burns, best known as the original host of Nickelodeon’s “Blue’s Clues,” along with remarks from Foundation leaders and Co-chairs Meredith and David Camp and Amy and Michael Roseman.

Ahead of the program, DJ Lucy Wrubel set an upbeat tone at the Welcome Reception, where attendees enjoyed champagne and sparkling water from a 20th anniversary-themed champagne wall. Over coffee from Another Sunrise Coffee Company, guests connected and recorded messages of hope at the Hope Hotline telephone booth, an installation marking the Foundation’s milestone year.

Another activation featured an oversized “Blue’s Clues”-inspired purple mailbox inviting attendees to take an encouraging letter of hope. Guests also stopped at a 20th anniversary photo wall and browsed raffle packages that included luxury travel, high-end shopping experiences, sporting events and more.

The luncheon opened with the Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy Singers performing “Seasons of Love” from the Broadway musical “Rent.”

Steve Noviello, FOX 4 News host, welcomed guests, followed by an invocation from Cantor Vicky Glikin, senior cantor at Temple Emanu-El. Guests then enjoyed lunch while connecting with fellow supporters.

The Rosemans thanked sponsors, donors, committee members and volunteers, along with Founding Luncheon Chair Barb Farmer.

The Camps then presented the 2026 Vanita Halliburton Beacon Award to Elizabeth Carlock Phillips, founder of No More Victims and executive director of the Phillips Foundation.

Phillips was recognized for her advocacy for survivors of sexual abuse and for leading the passage of Trey’s Law in Texas and Missouri, which prohibits the misuse of nondisclosure agreements against survivors, in memory of her late brother, Trey Carlock, who died by suicide.

“We refuse to let the end of their story be the whole story,” Carlock Phillips said. “We invite joy and sorrow to coexist. Keep fighting for the unseen and the hurting.”

Following a mission video, Foundation President Kevin Hall reflected on the organization’s 20 years of impact.

“As the video showed, the story of Grant Halliburton Foundation is the story of a community that has shown up over the past 20 years to make sure young people know they are not alone,” Hall said. “The Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents and professionals with life-saving mental health and suicide prevention training because of you.”

Amy McCloskey, co-founder of the Foundation and Grant Halliburton’s sister, spoke about the organization’s ongoing work.

“Because of this community, there are young people who are alive and well today who might not have been otherwise,” McCloskey said. “Continue this legacy with us by bringing help, hope and peace of mind to young people and their families.”

David shared how he and his wife became involved after five friends lost children within five years and encouraged attendees to connect with young people in their lives.

“I realized it only takes five minutes to start a conversation that could change the trajectory of a struggling youth’s future,” he said.

David and Michael led the paddle raise, joined on stage by Amy Roseman and Meredith.

Burns delivered a personal message about his experience with depression during his talk, “The Cost of Showing Up Happy: Burnout and the Wisdom of Asking for Help.”

He now shares his story as a speaker, podcast host, musician and actor, continuing conversations about mental health with audiences of all ages.

“What made the show work was the idea that I needed [help from] the home viewer,” Burns said. “‘Will you help me?’ I would ask [on the show]. It’s OK to ask for help. Make asking for help seem ordinary.”

Burns said that while he appeared joyful to millions of “Blue’s Clues” viewers, he was living with undiagnosed depression.

Burns’ experience reflects the challenges many young people face, a focus of the Foundation’s work as it marks its 20th anniversary year and continues expanding youth mental health education and resources across North Texas.

That focus was echoed earlier in the program.

“Because the future we are working toward is one where young people feel safe asking for help, where parents know what to look for and where to turn, and where suicide prevention is proactive, not reactive,” Hall said.

David & Meredith Camp, Steve Burns, Amy & Michael Roseman, Barb Farmer

Beacon of Hope Luncheon

Source: Press release

March 25, 2026
Texas Woman’s University Honors Lee Cullum, Raises Record Funds for Graduate Scholarships

More than 500 guests attended Texas Woman’s University’s 24th annual Dallas Leadership Luncheon on February 17 at the Hilton Anatole, where Dallas journalism icon Lee Cullum was presented with the Virginia Chandler Dykes Leadership Award. The honor recognizes a civic leader whose work reflects “an enduring commitment to education and service.”

The event raised a record $330,000 — more than double the amount raised last year — for graduate student scholarships.

Cullum, widely known as the former host of CEO, KERA’s long-running interview series with prominent business leaders, has built a distinguished journalism career that has included commentary for PBS News Hour and NPR’s All Things Considered, as well as service as editor of the editorial page of the Dallas Times Herald. She currently contributes to The Dallas Morning Newsand Patron Magazine, and writes a Substack column titled La Vie en Orange. Cullum was selected for what Chancellor Carine Feyten described as her “thoughtful storytelling and reporting that reflects a range of perspectives” and strengthens the community.

In her welcome remarks prior to introducing Cullum, Feyten underscored TWU’s growing impact.

“When people hear the name Texas Woman’s University, they sometimes assume they already know our story,” Feyten said. “They think we are a small institution…or a university with a proud history, but a limited future. Nothing could be further from the truth.”

Calling TWU “bold, modern and deeply relevant,” Feyten cited continued athletic success, expansion of the Doswell School of Aeronautical Sciences, the opening of the $107 million Health Sciences Center, and the success of the Dream Big fundraising campaign. She noted that TWU’s mission to expand opportunities for women has never been more urgent.

The luncheon also recognized the 2026 Virginia Chandler Dykes Scholars — LaTonya Seldon, Valeria Millinga, Faith A. Tissot, Bitali Islam, LaToya Huntley and Marissa C. Gomez — who represent the university’s five colleges and are completing graduate studies in occupational therapy, nutrition, nursing, molecular biology, special education and human resources. Seldon spoke on behalf of the group.

“TWU has been a pillar for me — a place to build both skills and community,” she said.

A highlight of the program was a conversation between Cullum and her granddaughter, Lili Clark, a senior associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies. Cullum shared intriguing anecdotes from her journalism career, including encounters with global leaders such as Nelson Mandela and Margaret Thatcher.

During the exchange, Cullum offered wisdom and insight drawn from decades in public life. “Do one thing at a time,” she advised. “Be calm after the change.” And, in advice that felt especially fitting for an event focused on supporting students: “Don’t just think of the answer. Become the answer.”

She also spoke about the university’s impact, noting that TWU “gives opportunities to women who might not otherwise have them — and gives our community the trained and educated women that we need.”

Near the close of the program, Cullum invoked the words of Rev. Jesse Jackson, who had passed away earlier that day: “Keep hope alive.” When asked what gives her hope now, she pointed to the scholars in attendance and to her granddaughter beside her.

“Young people like you,” she said. “Anyone has the ability to forge on, no matter what.”

Another highlight of the luncheon was the surprise announcement of the Lee Cullum Endowed Scholarship. Guests contributed $35,000 during the event, and the fund reached its $50,000 endowment level within 24 hours.

The luncheon was chaired by Lindsay Billingsley, Lucy Burns and Sumner Billingsley, with Lucy Billingsley serving as Honorary Chair and Ralph Hawkins as Honorary Chair Emeritus. Major sponsors included the Jane Bosart Foundation, the Billingsley/Burns Family, Luther King Capital Management, the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University, Lyda Hill Philanthropies and Sue S. Bancroft.

To learn more about the luncheon or to support the Lee Cullum Endowed Scholarship, visit https://twu.edu/advancement

Lili Clark, Lee Cullum

TWU mariachis

Lee Cullum, Dr. Carine Feyten

Source: Press release

March 25, 2026
On the Move: nonprofit leaders taking on new roles

This week: Careity Foundation, Center for Transforming Lives, Communities in Schools of Greater Tarrant County

The Parker County Chamber honored community leader Lyn Walsh of the Careity Foundation with its first-ever Legacy Member Award during the Chamber’s 30th Anniversary Gala, attended by more than 500 business and community leaders.

Congratulations to Center for Transforming Lives CEO Carol Klocek on being welcomed into the Forbes Nonprofit Council!

Her first contribution is featured in the Forbes article “How To Stay On Mission During Organizational Stress.” Check out Section 12 to read her insight.
https://lnkd.in/gr-JTdy8

Communities in Schools of Greater Tarrant County is excited to announce that Jennifer Murphy is joining the CIS of Greater Tarrant County team as their new Chief Development Officer.

March 19, 2026
A Dallas philanthropic legacy continues with the Ruth Altshuler Emergency Shelter

When Ruth Collins Altshuler led the capital campaign to build The Salvation Army’s Carr P. Collins Social Service Center in 1984, she helped shape how Dallas responded to homelessness for decades. Now, as The Salvation Army of North Texas replaces that 40-year-old facility, the first building on its new Dallas Social Services Campus will carry her name forward.

Named in her honor, the Ruth Altshuler Emergency Shelter reflects both a generational legacy and a shift in how the community serves its most vulnerable neighbors. Altshuler, the daughter of Carr P. Collins, namesake of the current social services center. championed compassion rooted in dignity and opportunity. The new shelter builds on that vision, replacing mass dormitories with semi-private, family-friendly rooms and trauma-informed care. It is designed to serve more than 2,200 men, women and children each year and help more people move from homelessness to stability.

Part of the $212.7 million One Army, Many Fronts Campaign, the new 21-acre campus marks a pivotal moment for the organization and its future response to homelessness, addiction and poverty in North Texas.

Source: Press release

March 19, 2026
Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists secures 20-year partners

The Cliburn announced a 20-year partnership with Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, covering the next five editions of the Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists (formerly known as the Cliburn International Junior Piano Competition and Festival). The next edition of the Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists takes place June 10–19, 2027, in Dallas, Texas. The competition will include an in-residence fellowship program on the campus of SMU, consisting of masterclasses, workshops, artist conversations, performance opportunities, and other scheduled activities.

“As the Cliburn continues to encourage the futures of the amazing young artists who participate in the Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists, we must also invest in the future of the communities that make events like this possible,” said Jacques Marquis, president and CEO of the Cliburn. “By cementing the partnership with SMU and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra—true pillars of the Dallas artistic community—for the next 20 years, we are telling the people of Dallas that the Cliburn is here, and that we are committed to the development of the next generation of great artists.”

In addition, the Cliburn announced renewed partnerships for the next 20 years with the Nasher Sculpture Center and NorthPark Center, as well as KERA and WRR.

Source: Press release

March 19, 2026
First Student donates bus to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County

First Student, a leading provider of student transportation services, donated a full-size school bus to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County, marked by a ceremonial key handover on March 10, 2026 at the organization’s Dan Serna Branch in Arlington. The donation is targeted to help more Club Kids safely access after-school programs, services and enrichment opportunities.

“Boys & Girls Clubs play a critical role in keeping kids engaged, supported, and inspired beyond the school day,” said John Kenning, CEO and President of First Student. “At First Student, caring for children is one of our core values, and we work every day to fulfill our mission of providing the best transportation experience so that when students arrive, they are ready to achieve their full potential. Supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County is one way we put that mission into action, helping ensure students can get to and from programs that strengthen academic success, character, and confidence, so they arrive ready to thrive.”

The donated bus will primarily be used to transport youth to and from Boys & Girls Clubs locations, removing a critical barrier to participation and enabling more students to benefit from the Club’s academic support, mentorship, and youth development programs. The bus will also support excursions and extracurricular activities, extending learning beyond the Club walls and into the community.

“Reliable transportation is one of the most significant barriers families face when accessing after-school programs,” said Daphne Barlow, CEO and President of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County. “This generous donation from First Student helps remove that barrier, ensuring more young people can safely get to their local Club, stay engaged after school, and access the mentorship, academic support, and enrichment opportunities that help them thrive.”

Source: Press release

March 19, 2026
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas will join Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star

Austin’s youth-serving agency to become BBBS Lone Star’s sixth major market on April 1st

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas (BBBS Central Texas) will merge with Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star, effective April 1; bringing together two mission-driven organizations to expand youth mentoring services and strengthen long-term outcomes across the Austin region.

Under the merger, BBBS Central Texas, known for its program delivery to more than 500 active Big/Little matches each year, will join forces with BBBS Lone Star, an agency recognized for its strong governance, operational excellence, and proven administrative infrastructure. The combined organization will operate under the Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star agency structure while continuing all existing services in Central Texas.

Uniting Strengths to Serve More Youth
This merger leverages the complementary strengths of both organizations:

BBBS Central Texas: A long-standing reputation for deep community relationships and exceptional match support, driven by a program team with decades of experience and consistently strong youth-outcome results.

BBBS Lone Star: A statewide leader in nonprofit operations, known for strong governance, financial stewardship, and scalable administrative systems.
Together, the merged agency will be positioned to accelerate growth, expand services, and bring the power of one-to-one mentoring to even more young people across Texas.

“The Central Texas program team has long been a driving force for youth mentorship in the Austin community,” said Shellie Hayes-McMahon, Board Chair for BBBS Central Texas. “Through this merger with Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star, we are building on that strong foundation to reach more young people across the Austin area. Together, we are strengthening mentorship and solidifying its future in Central Texas.”

Jennifer Scott, BBBS Lone Star Interim CEO added, “Uniting our teams will strengthen the Central Texas organization’s mission and ensure long-term impact. By working together to maintain and elevate local services and foster local community engagement, we will reach more youth, strengthen support for families, and provide our mentors, staff, and community stakeholders with the resources and stability they deserve. We’re thrilled for this opportunity to unite and, above all, serve more kids throughout Central Texas.”

Commitment to the Central Texas Community BBBS Central Texas will continue offering the same mentoring programs the community knows and values. Volunteers, families, donors, and partners will experience no interruption in
services. All existing matches will continue to receive the same level of support and
relationship-building guidance from the program professionals they know and trust.

March 11, 2026
On the Move: nonprofit leaders taking on new roles

This week: BioNTX, CASA of Tarrant County, Goodwill North Central Texas

BioNTX today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Gina Ford, DPh., MBA, as the organization’s Chief Executive Officer. In this role, Ford will lead BioNTX’s strategic vision and operational priorities, drive disciplined growth, and ensure it delivers meaningful, measurable value to its members. She will focus on strengthening industry alignment, raising the region’s national visibility, and implementing a clear roadmap to accelerate innovation, attract investment and enhance long-term competitiveness in the life sciences sector across North Texas.

CASA of Tarrant County is proud to announce the appointment of John Gerdes as President of its Board of Directors for the 2026 term. Gerdes brings a deep-rooted passion for child advocacy to the role, driven by both a commitment to the community and a personal history. First introduced to the organization by longtime board member Debbie Cooley, Gerdes’ connection to the mission became deeply personal through his wife’s own experience as a former foster child who was supported by a CASA volunteer.

Goodwill North Central Texas announced the promotion of four key leaders within the organization: Ruben Cruz to Senior Director, Donated Goods & Retail; Amber Tamplin to Retail Director; Mike Jones to Director, S.T.A.R.S. Program; and Cody Tovar to Senior Director of Information Technology. These promotions reflect Goodwill’s continued commitment to leadership development, operational excellence and mission growth across retail, workforce services and organizational infrastructure.

March 11, 2026

KERA breaks ground on new headquarters

KERA broke ground on its new 56,000 square-foot headquarters in uptown Dallas. Made possible through its Ground Breaking Capital Campaign, the new building will be located on the Katy Trail and feature a unique design that puts community first, physically and conceptually, via live performance spaces, shared podcasting and studio resources, and in-person arts and learning experiences.

The new headquarters will be named after The Addy Foundation following its $15M gift to KERA’s capital campaign. In addition to being a central destination for North Texans to convene and create, the new headquarters will be the home for all of KERA’s radio and TV properties, as well as the national programs “Think” with Krys Boyd and KERA’s newly acquired “From the Top.”

“KERA has been an established and trusted community pillar for more than 65 years, and we are entering a new era in which we will connect, inform and inspire North Texas communities to an even greater extent,” said KERA President and CEO Nico Leone. “Thanks to the generosity of our members, listeners and everyone who has supported our Ground Breaking Capital Campaign, KERA is looking forward to a long and impactful future.”

The first floor will house a 3,500-square-foot performance space with a capacity of approximately 300 guests. It also will feature a podcasting studio on the main floor as a space for North Texas creators to learn the craft of podcasting in an educational space with the necessary technology.

KERA is the largest investor in its own capital campaign, following the sale of 2/3 of its land in 2025. The new building will be located on the remaining 1/3 of the land, adjacent to the Katy Trail. A new headquarters is not the only way KERA is investing in its future. KERA’s capital campaign is also investing in the future of its core areas of service — including local journalism; early childhood education; and music, arts and culture. This includes launching a local news show on KERA News 90.1 FM.

The project is scheduled for completion in Spring 2028.

Source: Press release

March 11, 2026

Boys & Girls Club of Hill County merges with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County

Joining forces will mean increased cost savings and additional resources for Hill County

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County (BGCGTC) and the Boys & Girls Club of Hill County have announced that the two organizations have merged. Hill County’s Marc & Sarah Young Branch Boys & Girls Club is now officially part of the BGCGTC network.

The move comes at a time when the need for youth services continues to grow. Hill County is experiencing demographic shifts and economic challenges, with a significant portion of its youth population living in poverty.

Daphne Barlow, CEO and President of BGCGTC, said the merger will expand access for Hill County families to additional programs and resources, including BGCGTC’s Mobile Clubhouse program and food services offered through BGCGTC’s Blue Door Kitchen initiative. The integration will also allow for increased cost savings and improved operational efficiency, while introducing enhanced benefits and career advancement opportunities for Hill County staff. No position eliminations are anticipated, and volunteer engagement is expected to increase.

“Boys & Girls Club of Hill County has tremendous community support and is aligned with our mission of enabling young people to reach their full potential,” Barlow said. “We look forward to combining the strengths of both organizations to make an even greater positive impact on the lives of children, youth and families in Hill County.”

The Boys & Girls Club of Hill County was founded by David Mojica and Ted Whitley in 1996. The Club currently has 307 members and serves an average of 81 children a day. Founded in 1926, BGCGTC operates nine branches and pioneered the Mobile Clubhouse program, with three specially equipped RVs that deliver a Club experience to schools, apartment communities, municipalities and other nonprofits. Last year, BGCGTC served more than 88,000 youth and has seen a 502% growth in services since 2018.

To mark the merger and kick off the year ahead, the Hill County Marc & Sarah Young Branch will host a Corporate Luncheon on March 12, 2026, at 12 p.m. at 209 Milford Road, Hillsboro, TX.

Donors, local businesses and community leaders can tour the facility and get an up-close look at BGCGTC’s Mobile Clubhouse. The luncheon will serve as a grand reopening celebration, a kickoff to 2026, and an opportunity to learn more about the shared vision for the future of youth services in Hill County. The event is open to companies and community partners interested in supporting local youth.

Barlow said the merged organization will maintain a strong local presence and deep community involvement in Hill County. A Hill County Advisory Council will be established to support local fundraising and advocacy efforts, and two seats on the BGCGTC Board of Directors will be held by Hill County representatives Bill Siddons and Sarah Young to ensure continued local leadership and representation.

“For nearly three decades, the Boys & Girls Club of Hill County has been a second home for youth in our community,” said Sarah Young. “Joining the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County allows us to honor that legacy while expanding what’s possible for our kids — bringing new programs, resources and long-term stability to Hill County, while keeping the heart of our Club firmly rooted here at home.”

Additional details regarding combined governance, structure and services will be announced as merger and integration activities continue into 2026.

Source: Press release

March 11, 2026