Across Texas, volunteers are transforming lives and strengthening communities every day. The Governor’s Volunteer Awards honor these inspiring stories, offering statewide recognition for the diverse ways Texans give their time, talents, and hearts to serve others.
How have volunteers made a difference in your community this year? Celebrate their impact by nominating them for the 42nd Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards! Nominations are open to individuals, organizations, and businesses that have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to service and created lasting, positive change in Texas communities. Nominations due Monday, September 29, 2025.
The 2025 Dallas History Makers Awards for Excellence will be the 44th annual award event held by the Dallas Historical Society. The awards were established on behalf of the Trustees of the Dallas Historical Society in 1981. The first Awards program was so well received it was decided to continue the idea of recognizing community service with an annual awards ceremony sponsored by the Society.
Outstanding individuals and organizations are selected for this honor from nominations solicited from the Dallas community. The recipients are chosen for their contribution to the quality of life in Dallas in multiple categories, including Arts Leadership, Business, Creative Arts, Education, Health/Science, History, Humanities, Philanthropy, Volunteer Community Leadership and Jubilee History Maker. Recipients must be residents of Dallas County and willing to accept their awards in person. Awards are not voted posthumously.
Awards Recipients:
Arts Leadership – Dr. Samuel S. Holland
Honored for being a long-standing champion of the Dallas arts community and as the Dean of the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University, he has fostered an environment where innovation and artistic excellence thrive by bringing his leadership and musical accomplishments to the faculty and student population.
Business – Microchip Cookies
Honored for being founded by two “Mompreneurs in America” according to the Katie Couric Show, theMicrochip Cookie is the world’s smallest chocolate chip cookie and has become an international sensation.
Creative Arts – Tomás Bustos
Honored for being a distinguished artist, educator, and mentor, Tomás Bustos founded the Fine Arts Sculpture Studio, nurturing emerging artists. In retirement he is involved in Masterpiece Relief for the Blind, which makes fine art accessible to the visually impaired through 3D relief sculptures.
Education – Mary Pat Higgins
Honored for her dedication to education as the former Head and CFO of The Hockaday School and currently the President and CEO of The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, her devotion to education our community on civil rights, history, and social injustice is unparalleled.
Health/Science – Dr. Robert Fine
Honored for his commitment to palliative care for end-of-life patients and their families, through lectures and teaching. As the Director of Baylor Scott & White Health’s 18 supportive palliative teams he is an expert leader is this much neglected field.
History – Harryette Ehrhardt
Honored for her dedication to the preservation of historic structures and those whose stories helped build them, the staunch humanitarian is a symbol of how history can benefit our community.
Humanities – Donna Wilhelm
Honored for her thoughtful and deliberate support of mental health, conservation and education efforts, her involvement with the Dallas Theater Center, KERA, NPR Foundation, DFW World Affair Council, and SMU Meadows Data Arts, to name a few, has enhanced their services and programing.
Philanthropy – Hoblitzelle Foundation
Honored for approving over 3,500 grants to Dallas and Texas’s non-profit community since 1942. TheFoundation has supported institutions that provide social, cultural, educational, and medical services.
Volunteer Community Leadership – Founders Garden Club of Dallas
Honored for the restoration and historic preservation of the Aldredge House Museum Conservatory, which encourages educational outreach, partnerships with historic architecture and horticulture experts and volunteers, enabling the Conservatory to be an asset to the community.
Jubilee History Maker – Friends of the Katy Trail
Honored for a 25+ year commitment to transforming an abandoned 3.5-mile rail line that ran through the middle of Dallas into a flourishing outdoor amenity that offers Dallas a clean, safe, and beautiful trail.This public-private venture is a prime example of how such a partnership can benefit the citizens of Dallas.With millions of visits from the community each year the Katy Trail has become a recreational haven forDallas.
Contact for more information: Ashlee Weidner, Director of Marketing and Development ashlee@dallashistory.org or call 214-421-4500 x 107.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth is looking to expand its mission and impact by establishing new services in 14 Texas counties in addition to its present offerings in Tarrant, Johnson, Parker, and Hood. The nonprofit is working with local leaders to identify needs and assess the potential of YMCA programs and facilities in new communities, by opening the door to partnerships with schools, churches, governments, and other organizations.
The first step through that doorway is already underway in Parker County, where the YMCA has launched an active fundraising campaign to purchase and renovate the former Willow Park Baptist Church at 129 S. Ranch House Road in Willow Park. The YMCA hopes to raise $12 million to acquire the property, which includes a 60,000-square-foot building and 15 acres of land. An additional $15 million will be needed to renovate the existing structure and create a state-of-the-art YMCA experience.
“We are thrilled to see the interest and enthusiasm for a YMCA in Parker County and hope we can work together to create a vibrant, inclusive facility that serves families, youth, and individuals of all ages,” said Mike Brown, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth. “The YMCA is more than a building. It is a hub for health, belonging, youth development, and community strength.”
“We’ve spent a great deal of time in prayer and reflection considering the best future for our former campus,” said Clark Bosher, pastor at Willow Park Baptist Church. “Although we received other offers, none aligned with our vision for community impact quite like the YMCA. Years ago, we hosted Y programs on-site, and we’re excited to see those services return — this time through a true community hub that will serve Parker County in meaningful, lasting ways.”
Other priority counties being considered for expansion are Montague, Young, Jack, Wise, Stephens, Palo Pinto, Eastland, Erath, and Somervell. Additionally, the YMCA will consider proposals for Hamilton, Comanche, Archer, Belford, and Throckmorton counties.
“The YMCA offers vital programs that promote health, wellness, education, and social connection,” Brown said. “Our goal is to bring those services to communities that currently do not have a YMCA presence and explore how we can provide recreational and developmental activities to more young people, families, and individuals.”
The YMCA offers a “contact us” form on its website to gauge community interest in programs and partnerships as well as identify potential funding partners in the expanded service area. Some future locations, such as Parker County, have a dedicated Facebook group for residents and partners to receive information and provide feedback.
“We’re going to use social media as a tool for residents to tell us about their needs and learn how they can support bringing a Y to their communities,” Brown said. “We will then work with each community to evaluate the most suitable YMCA services or facilities to meet those needs and look for funding partners to support those efforts.”
Informational packets will also be available to explain options for bringing the Y experience to a community. They include a Y without walls (programs only); a Y Express or Y Garage, which offers fitness programming only; and a full-service facility with access to all the resources and programming of a traditional YMCA.
Expo Home Improvement has launched its 8th Annual Expo Home Heroes initiative, created to honor a Veteran by providing a brand-new, accessible shower or bath.
The community is encouraged to nominate a veteran in need of a shower or bath renovation before August 8 by visiting expohomeimprovement.com/expo-home-heroes/ and submitting an entry.
The veteran hero chosen will receive a bath or shower remodel featuring accessible enhancements and updated design elements, all customized to meet the unique needs and preferences of the individual. The winner will be announced on October 1st.
“We are so grateful for the men and women who have served our country,” said Michael Flores, President of Expo Home Improvement. “It is our greatest privilege to provide a complimentary bath or shower renovation to an individual who is so deserving.”
Throughout the year, Expo Home Improvement continues to serve those who have served others including veterans, senior citizens, public servants, and first responders through special offers and discounts.
Expo Home Improvement is a privately held company headquartered in Farmers Branch, Texas. With a focus on bath and shower remodels, door and window replacements, and kitchen remodeling, Expo Home Improvement is committed to helping Texans create beautiful, safe, and energy-efficient homes.
Serving Dallas-Fort Worth, Central Texas, San Antonio, and Houston, Expo Home goes above and beyond to provide exceptional service that will help a homeowner enhance their home. For more information about Expo Home Improvement, visit expohomeimprovement.com.
Fourteen teens participating in Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County’s (BGCGTC) Building Industry Leaders (BIL) program have a head for design and a head start on college tuition. The Club members collectively received $20,700 in scholarship awards for their outstanding efforts in designing a quick-service restaurant for the future.
BIL is a program built in cooperation with the Urban Land Institute (ULI) and Boys & Girls Clubs (BGC) nationally to educate and mentor BGC high school students on career opportunities in commercial real estate and give them the professional skills needed to become industry leaders and contributing members of their community. ULI is the largest international network of cross-disciplinary real estate and land use experts. Kimley-Horn — a national engineering, planning, and design consulting firm with offices across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex — funded the scholarships; representatives from the firm also served as in-person mentors and hosted the BIL planning sessions at their downtown Fort Worth office. Kimley-Horn engaged its partner, Raising Cane’s, to participate by giving Club members a tour of its Plano headquarters.
From September 2024 through May 2025, Club members participating in BIL met bi-weekly to discuss building architecture, landscape architecture, construction, civil engineering, development, finance, and other topics. The teens then delivered a group presentation of their overall plan and design considerations.
“This year’s participants came ready to learn, grow, and get out of their comfort zone. They demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and dedication in their teams, working hard to learn complex design concepts and bring their ideas to life,” said Rachel Priller, civil analyst at Kimley-Horn. “These scholarships give our future leaders an opportunity to follow their dreams and bring diverse perspectives into the workforce. After working with them this year, we know they will make our world a better place!”
The $20,700 in scholarship awards represented a $7,000 increase over the 2024 BIL scholarship total; amounts awarded have increased since BGCGTC’s involvement began in 2018.
“This program gives teens real-world design experience and an opportunity to work with experts from a variety of fields so that they can explore future career opportunities,” said Daphne Barlow, CEO and president of BGCGTC. “We are proud of our talented Club members and grateful to all of the wonderful partners who make this and other scholarship opportunities possible.”
With new Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux and other dignitaries in attendance on June 3rd, Uptown Dallas, Inc. (UDI) leaders introduced the community to a new space focused on ensuring Uptown remains the most vibrant and safe live/work/play community in the city.
Opening in July at McKinney and Pearl Street, Uptown Dallas Inc. Safety Headquarters will be a dedicated operations hub designed to elevate how the nonprofit manages safety and security across the district. The headquarters will be built out to connect, respond and work alongside its partners, businesses, the Dallas Police and the Uptown Dallas Safety team to keep Uptown thriving.
Noelle LeVeaux, interim UDI executive director, said, “The Uptown Dallas, Inc. Safety HQ is a proactive investment in visibility, coordination and public safety, not just for those who live here, but for everyone who interacts with Uptown every day. From our security team to the city teams and officers we collaborate with, this space strengthens how we operate and how we partner.”
Strategically located on the opposite end of Uptown from UDI’s main office, this space extends the organization’s reach and gives more presence and extra eyes and ears on the ground.
Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux remarked, “The Dallas Police Department is proud to stand alongside Uptown Dallas Inc. in this important step forward. The Safety HQ will help strengthen how we work together, whether it’s through on-site collaboration, better communication, or a stronger presence in the field. It’s an investment in safety, and more importantly, in the people and places that make Uptown what it is.”
Councilmember Paul Ridley added, “Uptown continues to raise the bar, not only in how it grows, but in how it plans for the future. The Safety HQ is a smart, strategic move that demonstrates leadership, partnership, and a real commitment to creating a safer, more connected community. I’m proud to support this project and the people behind it.”
Ramsey March, Chairman of Uptown Dallas Inc. and Executive Managing Director at Stream Realty, said, “Since Uptown Dallas Inc. was formed in 1993, we’ve seen over $5 billion in investment flow into this district sparked by developers, business owners, and property stakeholders who believe in Uptown’s potential.The Safety HQ is a smart, strategic enhancement to that investment. It gives stakeholders peace of mind that this district continues to be cared for, not just aesthetically and economically, but operationally.”
The new UDI Safety HQ space will undergo renovations and updates to be outfitted with the following:
UDI security team, based there full-time, giving them a dedicated, central workspace.
An onsite, live dispatcher to handle calls and help coordinate fast, effective responses.
At full capacity, the space will feature monitors displaying live video feeds from throughout the district.
Space to encourage teams like the Dallas Police Department and Homeless Outreach to hold meetings, collaborate, and spend more time working in the area.
United Way of Tarrant County (UWTC) announced that, thanks to the support of the community, it distributed more than $100,000 to many of the residents displaced by the June 23 fire at the Cooper Apartments in Fort Worth’s Near Southside. Every dollar raised went directly to affected residents to aid in their recovery.
“Our community showed up when it mattered most,” said Adam D. Powell, UWTC president and CEO. “This outpouring of support is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we unite for our neighbors in crisis.”
Through a partnership between Fort Worth Councilwoman Elizabeth Beck, Near Southside Inc. and United Way of Tarrant County, the Cooper Fire Relief Fund launched just days after the six-alarm fire forced more than 800 residents from their homes. As part of the effort, Near Southside Inc. also developed a resource database offering free services and discounted products to help displaced residents recover and rebuild.
“From organized efforts such as this to grassroots community support, Fort Worth showed our neighbors in need why our city is special — because we care for each other,” said Beck.
“In the wake of unimaginable loss, our community rallied together with urgency and compassion,” said Megan Henderson, cultural director with Near Southside Inc. “We’re proud to have been a part of this effort to ensure displaced residents received the support and dignity they deserve.”
Hundreds of donors across Tarrant County contributed to this relief fund, including substantial gifts from local foundations, businesses and the general community.
The funds will be used to help residents secure temporary housing, replace lost belongings and access essential services as they begin the long road to recovery.
Auction in a Box announced the hiring of Eric “Zarko” Zarko to lead its strategic growth and partnership initiatives.
Founded in 1989, Auction in a Box offers a one-stop solution for nonprofits and charities seeking to enhance their fundraising efforts. By focusing exclusively on consignment auction items, each uniquely curated piece tells a story of zeal, unity, and generosity—turning every fundraising event into a powerful opportunity for giving.
Widely recognized throughout North Texas as “Zarko,” Eric brings a wealth of experience in uniting the nonprofit and for-profit sectors through innovative marketing, business development, and community engagement strategies. With decades of proven success in building mission-driven alliances, Zarko is uniquely positioned to accelerate Auction in a Box’s outreach and impact across the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area and beyond.
“Auction in a Box has a rich legacy of transforming fundraising events into dynamic and inspiring experiences,” said Zarko. “I’m honored to join a team that shares my passion for community impact and is committed to helping nonprofits thrive.”
Zarko’s impressive career spans leadership roles at the DFW Nonprofit Resource Group, which he founded. His ability to cultivate meaningful relationships and generate strategic partnerships aligns perfectly with Auction in a Box’s mission to deliver turnkey consignment auction experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Now with a showroom in Dallas-Fort Worth, Auction in a Box provides nonprofits and charities with a simplified, impactful way to raise funds—curating high-quality, story-driven auction items that elevate donor engagement and drive results.
Since 2016, with the support of its customers, vendors, suppliers and teammates, McLane has contributed over $1 million in financial support to Folds of Honor North Texas. This is the result of donations made over the years through various philanthropic events and activities. The recent North Texas Golf Classic marked the crowning achievement for McLane, who served as title sponsor for the event.
“We are incredibly grateful to McLane for reaching $1 million in donations to Folds of Honor North Texas,” said Mike Beltz, Board Chair for the Folds of Honor North Texas chapter. “Through McLane’s generosity, we have been able to provide 200 scholarships for spouses and children of fallen or disabled military members and first responders, giving them the opportunity to pursue higher education, build brighter futures, and honor the legacies of those who serve our nation.”
McLane has partnered with Folds of Honor North Texas for nine years, providing educational scholarship support for private school tuition or tutoring in grades K-12, tuition for college, technical or trade school and post-graduate work, including a master’s degree, doctorate, or professional program.
“McLane is proud to support Folds of Honor and its important mission to honor the sacrifices and support the education of our nation’s heroes’ legacy,” said Susan Adzick, president, McLane Restaurant. “This milestone reflects the collaboration and generosity of our teammates and partners. We look forward to continuing our meaningful and impactful partnership in the years to come.”
Since its founding in 2007, Folds of Honor North Texas has awarded over 62,000 scholarships to the children and spouses of America’s fallen or disabled service members. In recent years, the program has also expanded to support the families of fallen and disabled first responders, further broadening its mission to recognize all who serve our country and communities.
M. Gale, a trusted partner to nonprofits across Texas, the Southwest, and the U.S., announced a strategic leadership transition. Founder and longtime President Missy Gale has assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer, appointing company veteran Laura Hutyra as president of the firm. Gale, who launched M. Gale in 2009, has led the firm for 16 years. The leadership shift comes after years of thoughtful succession planning, designed to ensure M. Gale’s continued growth and commitment to its nonprofit partners.
“Laura is passionate about the work of our nonprofit partners and our M. Gale team of talented professionals who are dedicated to the success of every client we serve,” said Missy Gale, CEO of M. Gale. “She has worked in every facet of our business—from leading our consulting team to overseeing business development, administration, and finance. Her leadership and counsel have guided clients through major campaigns, fundraising strategies, and nonprofit management. I am confident that under Laura’s leadership, M. Gale will continue to grow and serve the nonprofit sector with distinction.”
As president, Hutyra will oversee day-to-day operations and continue M. Gale’s work in supporting nonprofit organizations. Gale, in her new role as CEO, will focus on strategic client engagement, vision-setting and business development.
“I have spent the last decade of my career under Missy’s mentorship and have seen her lead the team and our clients with integrity, innovation, and passion,” said Hutyra, president of M.Gale. “I am honored to have her trust and confidence to lead M.Gale into the next phase of growth, building upon decades of success serving our nonprofit partners and advancing community impact.”
Hutyra brings 20 years of nonprofit and fundraising experience to the role, including 11 years under Gale’s leadership at M. Gale. Previously vice president, she led teams through collaborative projects and significant firm growth. Prior to joining M. Gale in 2014, Hutyra held development positions at All Saints’ Episcopal School of Fort Worth, Hill School, and the Fort Worth Zoo, with a focus on capital campaigns.
Clients expressed confidence in the transition. “Over the past decade, M.Gale has proven to be an invaluable partner of our Foundation, demonstrating the deep expertise and institutional knowledge that comes from their longstanding commitment to the nonprofit sector,” said Laura McWhorter, president of the Texas Health Resources Foundation. “Their team doesn’t just provide consulting services – they truly understand the unique challenges nonprofit organizations face and have consistently delivered customized solutions that align with our Mission and resonate with our donor community. Their continuity of leadership and sustained excellence in the nonprofit space makes them a trusted ally that can be counted on to help achieve your goals and better serve the community.”
“We’ve worked with M. Gale for years on a variety of initiatives, most importantly with Laura on our Capital Campaign. Her professionalism, deep knowledge of development strategy, and responsiveness made a significant impact as we navigated one of the most important seasons in our school’s history,” said Rivertree Academy Head of School Justina Jenkins. “Understanding the depth of commitment to serving the community and the results of her work, I’m confident she will continue the legacy of excellence M. Gale brings to North Texas.”
