This spring, Folds of Honor – North Texas brought together business leaders, community partners, and supporters across Dallas-Fort Worth to help fund educational scholarships for the spouses and children of military members and first responders.
The nonprofit hosted two major fundraising golf tournaments raising $421k benefiting local scholarship recipients, including the Wingman Open at Ridglea Country Club in Fort Worth on April 13 and the North Texas Golf Classic at Dallas Athletic Club on May 11.
Funds raised through the North Texas Golf Classic alone directly supported over 53educational scholarships for local families. For many recipients, these scholarships help offset the growing financial burden of education and provide long-term stability following sacrifice and service.
The tournaments drew strong support from North Texas companies and community partners, including McLane, Rescue Air, Suntex Marinas, and the SRS Raise the Roof Foundation.
Airbnb announced a $225,000 investment to support anti-human trafficking and domestic violence prevention efforts across Texas, bringing together state legislators, community leaders, and local Airbnb hosts in El Paso. The donation will be distributed across four Texas nonprofit organizations on the front lines of these efforts:
Unbound Now, headquartered in Fort Worth, TX, Unbound Now is dedicated to ending human trafficking through prevention, training and survivor advocacy, serving 46 counties across Texas.
United Against Human Trafficking (UAHT), based in Houston, TX, leads collaborative efforts across Greater Houston to prevent exploitation, support survivors, and strengthen community responses through education, advocacy, and cross-sector partnerships.
Paso Del Norte Center of Hope, based in El Paso, TX serves the border communities, providing comprehensive services including emergency shelter, legal advocacy, counseling and long-term management to survivors of human trafficking and sexual assault.
Center Against Sexual and Family Violence, based in El Paso, TX provides a critical safety net for crisis intervention, shelter, legal advocacy, and counseling to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking in the region.
The $225,000 Texas donation is part of the Airbnb Community Fund, a global initiative launched in 2020 with a goal of distributing $100 million to communities worldwide through 2030. Through the Fund, Airbnb aims to work closely with local stakeholders and its host community to direct funding to organizations making a real difference in supporting initiatives helping local communities. In El Paso, Airbnb’s host community led the way in selecting the two local organizations to receive funding.
“Today, we come together to help address the critical issue of human trafficking in Texas; uplift the organizations tirelessly doing this work across the state; and unite in our commitment to work to protect the most vulnerable among us. Airbnb has a longstanding focus of fighting human trafficking globally, and today’s $225,000 donation reflects our commitment to being a long-term partner to Texas communities in this fight” said Ricco Garcia, native Texan and Airbnb spokesperson.
This donation is the latest example of Airbnb’s broader commitment to help fight human trafficking and exploitation worldwide. Since 2020 Airbnb has donated to over 50 organizations across 17 countries focused on helping to combat trafficking, exploitation, and abuse. In February, Airbnb partnered with ECPAT International to launch a free educational tool, designed to help hosts recognize and report potential child exploitation. Airbnb has also worked with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime through the Safe Travel Initiative and the Polaris Project on host education for major events, and is supporting the It’s a Penalty campaign to help communities across North America stay informed and vigilant during the upcoming tournament.
“We are deeply grateful to Airbnb for this generous support and meaningful partnership. This gift represents far more than funding. It creates safety for people in crisis, provides hope and healing for survivors rebuilding their lives, and strengthens our ability to prevent exploitation and help more survivors reclaim their futures,” said Susan Peters, Founder and CEO of Unbound Now.
Jamie Williams has been named as Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains (GSTOP). Williams brings more than 20 years of experience across the nonprofit and public health sectors, with a career focused on strategy, revenue growth, and community impact. She is passionate about strengthening local communities by building strong partnerships, developing innovative program models, and aligning strategy with measurable impact.
Williams has raised more than $50 million in support of mission-driven organizations and has led large-scale transformation efforts at both the state and national levels. Prior to joining Girl Scouts, she served as CEO of Healthier Texas, where she led a statewide organization dedicated to expanding access to preventive health programs and strengthening community-based systems of care.
“We are excited to welcome Jamie Williams as our new CEO,” said GSTOP Board Chair Jan Titsworth. “As a Girl Scout alum, Jamie is deeply committed to creating opportunities for girls to explore their potential, develop leadership skills, and build pathways to future careers.”
In her new role, Williams is committed to expanding access to programs that reach girls in rural and underserved communities, ensuring every girl has the opportunity to succeed, no matter where she lives.
“I’m committed to ensuring every girl has access to the experiences that build confidence, leadership and real pathways to opportunity,” she said. “Investing in girls is an upstream solution that strengthens communities and builds the workforce employers need. Girl Scouts sit at the center of that opportunity. Together, we can develop talent early, connect it to real-world skills, and create lasting economic impact throughout North and West Texas.”
Spring was in full bloom in Dallas on May 7 as more than 200 animal lovers, philanthropists, and food enthusiasts gathered for Paws Cause 2026 at the SPCA of Texas Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center. Guests in festive spring attire strolled the purple carpet after enjoying valet service generously provided by Sewell Automotive Companies, setting the tone for an elegant and spirited evening benefiting pets in need.
From the moment attendees arrived, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The check-in process moved seamlessly thanks to the enthusiastic team of SPCA of Texas staff and volunteers. Inside, guests were immersed in a vibrant celebration filled with festive lights, delicious aromas, and the beautiful folk sounds of Marshall Mcferrin trio.
The Animal Care Center lobby and pod areas transformed into a culinary showcase featuring some of Dallas’ most celebrated chefs. Guests enjoyed gourmet tastings from individual chef stations throughout the evening, including:
Chef Abraham Salum of Salum Restaurant, who served as Chef Chair for the event, presented chilled sweet corn chowder with poblano hush puppies, queso fresco, and crema.
Chef Dan Landsberg of The Texas Barn at Circle T Ranch offered micro Texas Twinkies with bite size house smoked bacon wrapped smoked brisket, jalapeno, and goat cheese.
Chef Gilbert Garza of Suze Restaurant prepared Guajillo lime meatballs with Cotija cheese and toasted peanut.
Chef Eric Dryer of Freestone Lake and Golf delighted guests with Texas quail with black truffle and English peas.
Chef Janice Provost of Parigi Restaurant presented risotto with mushrooms, edamame, miso butter, and Parmesan cheese.
Chef Josh Sutcliff of 55Seventy created fancy grilled cheese brioche, black truffle aioli, Comte cheese and Iberico ham.
Chef Dunia Borga of La Duni Baking Studio provided decadent Basque cheesecake Madrid style with a La Duni cookie.
SPCA of Texas President and CEO Chris Luna, J.D., welcomed attendees and thanked supporters for making the organization’s lifesaving work possible.
“Your support helps us create a happier, healthier community for pets and people alike,” Luna said. “Because of you, we are able to provide affordable spay and neuter services, vaccinations, wellness care, pet food assistance, and emergency resources that help keep pets with the families who love them.”
Tito’s Handmade Vodka served the evening’s signature cocktail, the Pawsmopolitan, a refreshing blend of vodka and cranberry juice served in commemorative Paws Cause cups.
Elegant purple and white floral arrangements donated by Dr Delphinium Designs & Events brightened the venue, while Four Corners Brewing Company kept guests refreshed throughout the night.
One of the evening’s most popular attractions was the Bottle Pull, which allowed guests to purchase chances to win remarkable spirits and wine ranging in retail value from $25 to $300.
A special area within the Animal Care Center became an exciting silent auction marketplace filled with sports memorabilia, pet-themed gift baskets, exclusive experiences, and more. Bidding wars continued throughout the evening as guests competed for standout items.
VIP guests enjoyed exclusive access to the beloved Puppy Cuddle Room, where they spent time with adorable, adoptable puppies. VIP experiences also included early access to chef tastings, sponsor recognition, and an exclusive tour of the new The Addy Foundation Care and Recovery Center on The Stephens Greth Foundation Campus which is scheduled to open this fall. SPCA of Texas Chief Veterinarian Dr. Valarie Tynes, led dozens of guests on a tour of the 39,000 square-foot facility, which will allow the organization to double its lifesaving impact on animals in North Texas.
Throughout the evening, guests voted for their favorite chef creations with donations supporting the SPCA of Texas mission. At the close of the event, Chef Abraham Salum earned the coveted “Best Bite” award for his pumpkin ravioli dish.
SPCA of Texas Vice President of Marketing and Communications Maura Davies congratulated the chefs and thanked them for contributing their talents to the cause.
“Tonight showcased not only extraordinary culinary creativity, but also the incredible generosity of Dallas’ chef community,” Davies said. “We are deeply grateful to each chef for helping make this evening so memorable.”
Chef Salum also expressed appreciation for the collaborative spirit of the event.
“It’s an honor to be part of an evening that supports such important work,” he said. “Sharing this experience alongside so many talented chefs while helping animals in need makes this event truly special.”
The SPCA of Texas is grateful to our generous Paws Cause 2026 sponsors:
Paws Cause 2026 once again proved to be a joyful and successful celebration combining gourmet cuisine, signature cocktails, compassionate supporters, and adorable adoptable pets—all in support of the SPCA of Texas mission to create a brighter future for animals, people, and the community.
This week: The Bucket Ministry, Junior League of Ft. Worth, Center for Transforming Lives, The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center, TXCAN
The Bucket Ministry, a non-profit organization sharing God’s love through the gift of clean, safe, drinking water, today announced Chris Muckleroy will step into the role of CEO as current Founder and Chief Storyteller Christopher Beth assumes the responsibility of President.
Junior League of Fort Worth Community Impact Awards recognized outstanding individuals whose leadership and service have left a lasting mark on the Fort Worth community:
Marty Leonard received the Legacy of Leadership Award
John Robinson received A League of His Own Award
Rachel Navejar Phillips received the Torch Bearer Award
Dr. Erin Wilson received the Legacy Builder Award
Center for Transforming Lives is pleased to welcome Amy Newell to its Board of Directors. In this leadership role, she will also serve as Chair of the Development Committee, led by Chief Development Officer Corrie A. Harris, MA, MBA, further advancing the organization’s mission to partner with single mothers and their children so they can thrive.
The Archway welcomes Jill Hassmann as their new Chief Philanthropy Officer! She will lead The Archway’s fundraising and communications team as they expand their impact for survivors.
The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center is proud to announce Annam Manthiram as its incoming Chief Executive Officer. Annam brings more than two decades of nonprofit leadership experience, including executive leadership in homelessness services, community engagement, fundraising, and organizational growth.
Natalie Young-Williams has been selected to serve as Chair of the TxCAN Guiding Team, an initiative of Educate Texas. TxCAN brings together leaders from across Texas who are committed to strengthening college access, postsecondary attainment, and quality advising so that every student has the information, guidance, and support needed to navigate their pathway to a successful future.
Goodwill North Central Texas announced the promotion of two leaders within the organization: Karyette Simmons to Director of Workforce Development – Education, and Autumn Harold to Director of Safety and Asset Protection. These promotions reflect Goodwill’s commitment to developing talent and strengthening programs and operations that support both employees and the communities served across North Central Texas.
One year after launching its expanded East Dallas partnership, the Youth Support Center (YSC) is celebrating a year of life-changing impact for North Texas youth and young adults. Through a collaboration between Juliette Fowler Communities (JFC), R3 Student Outreach and East Dallas Christian Church, the center has served 335 youth in its first year, providing education, workforce development, counseling referrals and wraparound support under one roof – all at no cost.
Located at 4210 Junius St. on the campus of East Dallas Christian Church, the 4,371-square-foot Youth Support Center was created to remove barriers for youth ages 10 to 24 who face challenges such as foster care transitions, justice involvement, housing instability and lack of educational access. Approximately 35% of its participants have aged out of foster care, and 60% have been justice involved.
In its first year, the center delivered:
Services to 335 youth and young adults in 2025
2,640 hours of tutoring for 120 youth
49 high school diploma graduates
35 IBM micro-credentials earned
30 graduates who secured employment or enrolled in college
Wraparound support for 220 youth, including food, clothing, bus passes and school supplies
A 78% completion rate in training and education programs – 30 percentage points higher than local averages for similar student populations, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 2023 Link, and the Texas Education Agency (TEA), 2023 Link
“One year ago, we hoped this partnership would create a stronger safety net for vulnerable youth and young adults,” said Juliette Fowler Communities President and CEO Nicole Gann. “Today, we are seeing lives changed through education, mentorship, encouragement and practical support. This center represents the evolution of our 134-year mission because it expands how we walk alongside young people as they heal, grow and build brighter futures.”
“The biggest difference between where we started and today is that we have become an integrated, needed resource for our community where youth and organizations are depending on us to continue our work,” said Juan Ramos, founder and executive director of R3 Student Outreach. “When a young person walks through our doors today, they feel at home, safe and they find a place of belonging.”
Ramos said the biggest needs in East Dallas remain access to flexible education pathways, workforce certifications, food, clothing and trauma-informed support.
“In Dallas, current programming still reaches only a fraction of disconnected youth,” added Ramos. “Our no-red-tape model matters because it helps young people get what they need quickly, without falling through the cracks. We also recognize that no two young people are alike, so our programs are designed to adapt to each individual’s needs rather than take a one-size-fits-all approach.”
One student success story that reflects that impact is an 18-year-old single mother of two who was justice involved and referred through Dallas County probation. She overcame family hardship, housing instability, and utility shutoffs to earn her high school diploma in December.
“Without this program, I didn’t think I could do it,” she shared. “This was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. It took me over six months, but I am very thankful for this opportunity of finally graduating.”
The Youth Support Center’s first year also confirmed the strength of its community-based partnership model. Since launch, more than 10 community partners have joined the effort, helping provide referrals, resources and specialized support. Demand has grown so significantly that the center has occasionally had to pause registration due to capacity.
“While we believe that Fowler’s deep roots and trusted presence in this community strengthen collaborative community partnerships, we know they would not be successful without our compassionate and dedicated partners working hard day in and day out,” said Lisa Mumford, director of programming, JFC. For generations, Juliette Fowler Communities has brought people together to care for neighbors in need, and that strong foundation helps programs like this grow, creating lasting change in the lives we serve.”
“Today, we are so thankful as we watch more and more youth being served and supported through our combined efforts,” said Rev. Allison Drake, senior pastor, East Dallas Christian Church. There are too many places where youth can slip through the cracks, and we know the Youth Support Center is providing a place for them to land.”
Looking ahead, the Youth Support Center plans to strengthen services for younger youth ages 12 to 18 through R3 Excel programming and expand its Nu Generations Private School into a full-semester option while continuing fast-track diploma opportunities.
To support the Youth Support Center or learn more about programming, visit r3student.org/dallas or call 469-921-0481.
The Retina Foundation launches the 100 Grand Challenge, an impact investment to support current and future vision‑changing breakthroughs
The Retina Foundation, a global medical destination to prevent vision loss and restore sight through innovative research and treatment, shared inspiration and plans for the future at its annual Visionary Luncheon, on Thursday, May 14 at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.
J.R. Thomas, a healthcare leader and luncheon emcee, recognized the Retina Foundation’s 50 years of impact and honored its founders’ trailblazing work in vision research and treatment.
“With the help of Dallas community leaders, a legacy of pioneering research, life-changing discoveries, and an enduring commitment to preserving vision the foundation has flourished,” said J.R. Thomas. “Today, we honor the founders and the scientists, donors, clinicians and patients who have carried their mission forward.”
The Retina Foundation set at a record-breaking 2026 fundraising goal of $1.3 million, fueled by the ongoing 100 Grand Challenge led by Mason Brown to make impact investment a catalyst for vision‑changing breakthroughs. Lyda Hill Philanthropies, Judy and Harold Kaye, and Helen and Bob McGraw accepted the challenge and donated $100,000 each. Proceeds support the Retina Foundation’s work in age‑related macular degeneration (AMD), inherited retinal diseases (IRD), and pediatric eye conditions, accelerating research to save vision and helping ensure patients are provided care at no cost. As of May 14, the Retina Foundation has raised $923,300 and continues to build momentum toward its record 2026 goal.
Dr. Karl Csaky, Chief Strategy Officer for the Retina Foundation, chaired the event, with Retina Foundation co-founder Dr. William L. Hutton serving as honorary chair. Both are pioneering ophthalmologists whose work has advanced clinical research and treatment, including breakthroughs in AMD and vitreoretinal surgery.
“Our discoveries have changed lives across the globe, bringing groundbreaking research from the laboratory directly to patients and families,” said Dr. Csaky. “To save vision for those battling retinal degeneration, we need significant impact investments to continue. A great vision deserves a grand investment.”
Following the 50th anniversary video tribute, Libby Hunt Allred presented this year’s Hunt Family Visionary Award to Delta Gamma for its steadfast commitment to improving the lives of people with visual impairments through their fraternity-wide philanthropy, Service for Sight. Each year, the Retina Foundation presents the honor to an individual, family or organization who has helped to advance vision-saving research. The award was named to honor multiple generations of the Hunt Family for their unwavering support of the Foundation’s mission to prevent vision loss and restore sight through innovative research and treatment. Delta Gamma has been a valued partner of the Retina Foundation for more than 26 years and has granted more than $100,000 in direct support to the Retina Foundation.
“Thank you to the Retina Foundation and its scientists for the incredible work being done to prevent and restore sight. Through our philanthropy Service for Sight, we are honored to support the foundation”, said Tricia Loe, award recipient representative from Delta Gamma Foundation.
Thomas moderated a Business Impact Panel featuring Doug Hawthorne, LFACHE, and Jay Rosser on the economic and societal return of investing in vision health and vision-saving research. Together, the panelists brought decades of leadership experience spanning healthcare, finance, and civic organizations. The conversation underscored how the Retina Foundation’s world-class scientific rigor is matched by its highly effective business model, allowing investments to be exponentially leveraged. Blindness and low vision cost the United States an estimated $139 billion annually in direct medical expenses, lost productivity and long-term care.
“The Retina Foundation is a gift to Dallas for their expertise and on-the-ground efforts to save sight. The doctors at the Foundation are sought out across the globe for their innovative and transformative research,” Hawthorne said.
In a grand finale, Dr. Karl Csaky presented an AI visual depiction of the future and how the Retina Foundation’s innovative accomplishments and plans will the set the course to find solutions to vision loss faced by patients with retinal degeneration.
“The mission remains as vital as ever to push the boundaries of discovery, accelerate new treatments and continue bringing hope backed by science to all those facing vision loss,” said Dr. Csaky. “Our goal is to expand our patient and research facility in Dallas and provide mobile vision care clinics that can access patients across the state, especially in rural communities.”
Supporters for the 2026 Visionary Luncheon include:
100 GRAND CHALLENGERS
Mason Brown
Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Judy & Harold Kaye
Helen & Robert G. McGraw
SPONSORS
Accelerator Sponsor
Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Judy & Harold Kaye
Inventor Sponsors Jill & Grant Henderson
Innovator Sponsors
Margot Perot
Transformer Sponsor Helen & Robert G. McGraw
Milestone Message Sponsors
Doug & Laurie Dotter
J.R. Thomas Family Foundation
Trisha Wilson Foundation
Patron Party Sponsor
Jennifer & Bill Voss
VIP Reception Sponsor Sue & William Hutton Susanna & James Merritt
Explorer Sponsors
Eva & Karl Csaky Frank Fletcher Donna & Lou Grabowsky Martha & Doug Hawthorne Nancy & Herbert Hunt Family Foundation Richard Massman Oncor
The Huffines Foundation presented a $30,000 donation to Manna House Outreach Food Pantry during a special community event on May 19th recognizing the organization’s ongoing impact in fighting food insecurity across Ellis County and surrounding communities.
Representatives from the Huffines Foundation, Manna House leadership, and local elected officials – including Midlothian Mayor Justin Coffman – will be in attendance for the check presentation and media availability.
“We are incredibly grateful and thrilled to partner with the Huffines Foundation. Together, we are making a meaningful impact across Ellis County by serving families with compassion and providing more than a meal. We are offering hope, dignity, encouragement, and support during difficult seasons of life. Through this partnership, we are helping strengthen our community and reminding families that they are seen, valued, and not alone. When organizations come together with a shared mission, lives are truly transformed.” Norma Belcher – Executive Director, Manna House.
Girl Scouts camp Stevens Ranch has received its youth camp license from the Texas Department of State Health Services.
“We are incredibly excited to be one of just 47 camps licensed to operate in the state of Texas this summer and that we can continue to give opportunities for girls to build confidence, independence, leadership skills, and friendships at camp,” said Jamie Williams, CEO of Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains. “At Girl Scouts, safety comes first and our staff has been working diligently since September of last year to implement the safety enhancements outlined in the Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act.”
Safety enhancements at Stevens Ranch include:
Updated emergency action plans for weather and other emergencies
Emergency warning system and installation of a camp-wide PA system
Illuminated evacuation routes for nighttime
Camper safety orientation and annual staff/volunteer training around the emergency action plan
Front gate security with controlled access and video camera
Primary end-to-end fiber connectivity
Secondary broadband internet failover connection for redundancy and service continuity
NOAA weather alert capability in every cabin and throughout camp
Whether a girl is already a Girl Scout or stepping into camp for the very first time, camp experiences create opportunities for courage, confidence, and character to grow. Stevens Ranch offers both overnight and day camp options. Girls do not have to be Girl Scout members to register. To register for camp at Stevens Ranch, visit gs-strong.org/summercamp.
