First Lady Cecilia Abbott, OneStar Foundation Announce 39th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards Recipients

This press release was originally posted here by The Office of the Texas Governor.

AUSTIN — Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Honorary Chair of the Governor’s Volunteer Awards, today announced the recipients of the 39th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards. These awards, presented in conjunction with OneStar Foundation, honor the exemplary service of individuals, groups, and organizations that have made a significant and measurable contribution to Texas communities through service and volunteering in the past year.

“I am thrilled to recognize the 14 outstanding awardees of this year’s Governor’s Volunteer Awards for their selfless dedication to Texans across the state,” said Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott. “The true strength of Texas is found in our people, and this year’s award winners are a moving testament to the character of the Lone Star State.”

“This year’s award recipients reflect the strength and resilience inherent in the Texan spirit of service,” said Chris Bugbee, OneStar President and CEO. “We are honored to shine a spotlight on these stellar examples of volunteer service with the hope that it will inspire even more generations of Texans to get involved and take action in their own community.”

Awardees will be honored during National Volunteer Month in April at a reception hosted at the Texas Governor’s Mansion.

The recipients of the 39th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards are:

  • Harriet Marmon Helmle (San Antonio): Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award

    Harriet Marmon Helmle has dedicated most of her life to improving education, helping the homeless and disabled, improving medical care for all, and giving girls and women the tools needed to succeed. During the past four decades, she has raised tens of millions of dollars for San Antonio area nonprofits. In 1984, Harriet founded San Antonio Youth Literacy to reach high-risk high school students and their families in disadvantaged neighborhoods that now serves over 900 students on 75 campuses. 

  • Mindy Gross (Fort Bend): Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award

    Mindy Gross has worked with the Fort Bend Women’s Center since the late 1990s to assist domestic violence and sexual assault survivors and their children in achieving safety and self-sufficiency. Mindy’s countless volunteer hours and continued commitment have enhanced the Richmond community, volunteers, and staff. In various leadership roles, Mindy has worked with Child Advocates of Fort Bend County and the United Way. She also founded the STARS volunteer auxiliary in 2004, co-founded and served as inaugural co-chair for their annual Girlfriends Giggle benefit, and raised more than $1 million for Fort Bend Women’s Center’s programs and services. 

  • Rose Wilson (Lubbock): Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award

    Rose Wilson continues to leave an outstanding legacy in Lubbock with decades of volunteer service spanning from fighting food insecurity to mentoring students to advancing social justice causes. At 95 years old, Rose continues to engage in new volunteer opportunities, help organize events, and serve on boards. Rose has been active with the Lubbock NAACP since the 1960s, becoming the first African American woman to be elected president in 1978 and remaining president for 30 years. She continues to serve on the executive board of the Lubbock NAACP, helping with membership drives and fund development and serving on the finance committee.

  • Catherine Bai (Houston): First Lady’s Rising Star Award

    After seeing the loneliness experienced by many nursing home residents, Catherine Bai started an Adopt a Senior program for residents rarely visited by family members. She soon realized the power of music therapy to help people with dementia and founded the Pearland branch of WeCareAct, a student volunteer organization to involve youth in community service in the Greater Houston area. So far the group has more than 100 volunteers, 1,000 hours dedicated, nine formal holiday concerts organized, and 900 seniors and community members served. Catherine presented her music community service project to the 2022 Future Problem Solving International Conference to raise awareness of the elderly in need.

  • Vedha Vaddaraju (Dallas): First Lady’s Rising Star Award

    Vedha Vaddaraju co-founded Letters of Gold, a Texas nonprofit with the mission of uplifting Texas residents and individuals around the world with letters of light in times of darkness. Letters of Gold delivers more than 3,000 letters to different groups in need every month, primarily in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and Texas. As a rising senior in high school, Vedha leads a team of almost 100 youth volunteers throughout Texas and has chapters of her organization in nearly 10 schools in the DFW area. Having the opportunity to speak in global conferences for the past two years and featured on various news sources in Texas, Vedha uses her skills to empower those around her to write letters and offers monthly training sessions for youth to encourage them to act in their community.

  • Elizabeth Watkins (Frisco): Volunteer of the Year Award

    Elizabeth Watkins founded Refresh Frisco in 2019 to provide hygiene products to students in need. With the mission in mind that proper hygiene is critical for a child’s health and self-esteem, Elizabeth set out to ensure that every child in her community has access to personal hygiene items. As an example of their rapid growth, Refresh Frisco served around 150 students in November 2019 and, by May 2022, had expanded to serve over 1,400 children in K-12 in Frisco ISD. She has recently expanded to Refresh Little Elm, serving more than 300 LEISD students and growing. 

  • Dr. Gary Beach (Austin): Volunteer of the Year Award

    Dr. Gary Beach began volunteering with The Volunteer Healthcare Clinic in 2008 and has improved the lives of countless uninsured patients. As a Vietnam veteran, Gary received the Meritorious Mast from the U.S. Marine Corps and went on to become an acclaimed physician for more than 42 years. He has repeatedly won Top Doctor awards in both Texas Monthly and Austin Monthly. Gary also uses his volunteer time at VHC to mentor the next generation of healthcare providers. He has supported and taught many pre-med students who have gone one to medical schools such as Dell, Southwestern, McGovern, Baylor, UTMB, TAMU, and Stanford.

  • Diana & Glen Egley (New Danville): Volunteer Family of the Year Award 

    Diana and Glen Egley are committed volunteers at New Danville, a rural nonprofit community in Willis for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Diana is president of Legally Authorized Representative Alliance, an organization that sponsors activities and supports New Danville’s day program clients and residents, where Glen also often volunteers. The family is central to the annual Christmas Market at which clients get to shop for free gifts to give to their family and friends, and they are also key volunteers for theater productions performed by New Danville clients. The Egleys also volunteer for Love Fosters Hope, a nonprofit that serves children and teens in foster care who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned.

  • LGI Homes (Fort Bend, Harris & Montgomery Counties): Corporate Volunteering Champion Award

    LGI Homes has made a tremendous impact by planning, completing, and funding a $25,000 project for SIRE, a nonprofit that supports individuals with special needs through therapeutic horsemanship. More than 40 LGI Homes employees provided over 500 hours of volunteer labor for the organization, constructing 10 stalls and outfitting a building for saddles and equipment. In October 2022, LGI Homes also oversaw the completion of a new 4,500-square-foot education and visitors center, valued at $1.2 million, which provides classroom space for SIRE programs, meeting space for local organizations serving people with disabilities, and office space for SIRE staff. LGI Homes is also very involved with Habitat for Humanity in Montgomery County and has employees serving on the board of directors at both SIRE and Habitat for Humanity.

  • Midland High School Football (Midland): Innovation in Volunteerism Award

    The Midland High School Football program has developed a reputation of being the go-to for volunteers in Midland. Head Coach Thad Fortune has built the MHS football program to include intentional and service leadership-based volunteer programming. It starts with his “Path of the Bulldog” principles given to every football player and parent beginning in 7th grade through 12th grade, reaching more than 600 students. MHS Football players are led by Coach Thad in intentional and coordinated volunteer service, including summer trash pick-ups in partnership with Keep Midland Beautiful and “Books and Bulldogs” summer reading programs with the Midland YMCA. 

  • Unite & Inspire (Houston): Innovation in Volunteerism Award

    Unite & Inspire is a youth-led nonprofit with a mission to unite and inspire children, youth, and adults into giving back to their communities through volunteering and to share resources that cultivate their growth as responsible global citizens. Their volunteer projects include disaster relief campaigns, STEAM education, cause-related internships, services for children and seniors, and medical and health support of cancer patients, first responders, and military. During Winter Storm Uri, they provided 500 families with hot meals, essential supplies, and recovery care packages. 

  • Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group (Aransas, Bee, Kleberg, Nueces, Refugio & San Patricio Counties): Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism Award

    Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group (CBDRG) is an established network of business, nonprofit, faith-based, private sector, and government organizations partnering to support long-term disaster recovery in 11 counties of the Coastal Bend. In response to Hurricane Harvey, CBDRG rebuilt 81 homes, replaced 79 manufactured homes, and completed 181 major repairs at a cost of $8.5 million. CDBRG provided disaster case management for 1,282 clients, with 450 of the clients fully recovered from the disaster. In Winter Storm Uri, they helped 133 clients restore basic water service that was lost due to freezing pipes. 

  • Texas Search and Rescue (Statewide): Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism Award

    Texas Search and Rescue (TEXSAR) is composed of volunteers who are dedicated Texans serving Texans with a spirit of “service above self” during times of emergency, loss, disaster, and pain. TEXSAR makes itself available as a resource to all 254 counties in the state when requested by local, state, or federal agencies. Though “search and rescue” is part of the organization’s name, TEXSAR has played particularly significant roles in disasters of various sorts, ranging from floods to fires to pandemics to winter storms. TEXSAR volunteers are valuable additions to the efforts of law enforcement, fire, and other agencies because of their spirit, dedication, training, empathy, professionalism, and preparedness—all of which adds up to excellence at times that Texans need it most. 

  • Samiksha Deme (Houston): National Service “Make a Difference” Award

    Samiksha Deme joined Sewa International’s Disaster Preparedness Group as an AmeriCorps Outreach Specialist. With her educational knowledge and skillset in environmental science, Sami is transforming critically needed disaster preparedness training for underserved and often marginalized communities. Sami’s preparedness trainings are centered on environmental justice, healthcare equity, and the crossroads between natural and human-made disasters. Sami also takes on volunteer projects outside her service responsibilities—from vaccine clinics to clothing drives for Afghan refugees to personal essentials for the homeless. 

For more information, visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

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About OneStar

OneStar strengthens Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. We advance service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. We are recognized as a statewide voice for the Texas nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies and the business community. Born from state government in 1974, we carry out our mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

National Compassion Fund Logo

National Compassion Fund to Distribute Victim Funds

A version of this press release was originally distributed by the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund Steering Committee.

UVALDE, TEX. — Robb Elementary School victims’ support effort receives backing from leading national authority on mass-casualty crime. The National Compassion Fund (NCF), a subsidiary of the National Center for Victims of Crime, will assist a local Steering Committee in developing and implementing a fund distribution plan for the victims of the tragedy on May 24, 2022. The philanthropic effort will be called the “Uvalde Together We Rise Fund,” and will provide direct financial support to the families of those impacted that day.

NCF was founded in collaboration with parents and family members from mass casualty events such as September 11th, Columbine, Aurora, and Newtown. NCF has administered 22 of these funds nationwide.

A service agreement with NCF was established by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country and the San Antonio Area Foundation to meet all service fees associated with the contract allowing 100% of donations to go directly to the established victim base.

NCF helps survivors navigate the process in a respectful, dignified, victim-centered manner. The organization also preserves the intent of donors who want to know that their gift is going directly to those harmed and will not be used for other purposes.

“Our hearts go out to the entire Uvalde community,” said Jeffrey Dion, NCF Executive Director.  “We are honored to join forces with Uvalde to increase charitable giving and help meet the overwhelming needs of the victims. We stand in solidarity with all of those impacted by this senseless violence.”

A volunteer Steering Committee will be responsible for setting the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund distribution policy with guidance from NCF. The Steering Committee members are:

  • Veronica Conoley, PhD
  • Erika Garcia, M.D. (Vice Chair)
  • Mickey Gerdes (Chair)
  • Sheri Rutledge
  • Bianca Spies, LPC
  • Virginia Sosa, OD
  • Edward Trevino
  • Julio Valdez
  • Anita Busch, President of VictimsFirst, co-founder of NCF, and currently serves as a Mass Violence Relief Specialist and Advisor to the Fund and recommended by NCF.
  • Paola Bautista, who was a survivor of the shooting at the Route 91 Concert in Las Vegas and recommended by NCF.

The National Compassion Fund has expertise on how victims are compensated for loss, will advise the Steering Committee, administer the victim application and vetting processes, and coordinate the distribution of proceeds from multiple fundraising campaigns.

The Steering Committee will ensure that the voices of the victims are heard, as they are integral to the distribution process. Experts with experience in mass-casualty survivor compensation and the needs of crime victims will also be asked to serve in a volunteer capacity. The Steering Committee’s work will be transparent and will inform the public of its deliberations in the distribution of funds.

Within the next two weeks, additional details will be provided about the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund’s process; the Steering Committee’s first working session is Wednesday, June 22, 2022. The Steering Committee will receive public input via town hall events to be scheduled in the near future and will keep the community updated about how the funds will be delivered.

At the time of this release, over $13-million in donations have been collected for victims through five primary accounts:

All of these funds will be pooled into the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution by the Steering Committee to victim families and others directly affected.

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About National Compassion Fund

The National Compassion Fund is a subsidiary of the National Center for Victims of Crime, the nation’s leading resource and advocacy organization for crime victims and those who serve them. The National Center for Victims of Crime is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and an authority on how victims are compensated for loss. The National Compassion Fund has led distributions to victims of mass events in Fort Hood, Chattanooga, Orlando, Las Vegas, El Paso, and Parkland, Florida.

About First State Bank of Uvalde

Founded in 1907, First State Bank of Uvalde has played an essential role in Uvalde’s growth and development. The Bank manages approximately $2-billion in assets and has locations Dimmit and Real counties in addition to its Uvalde County branches. The Bank is collecting donations for victims through the Robb School Memorial Fund. These donations will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution. To donate visit First State Bank of Uvalde , call 830-356-2273 or mail a payment to P.O. Box 1908, Uvalde, Texas 78802.

About OneStar Foundation

OneStar Foundation, based in Austin, is a nonprofit focused on strengthening Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. It advances service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. As a nonprofit born from state government, OneStar carries out its unique mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. OneStar Foundation has been supporting Uvalde by serving as the public charity receiving donations for the Robb School Memorial Fund in coordination with First State Bank of Uvalde. Based on the local steering committee’s direction, these funds will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution.

About Texas Bankers Foundation – Uvalde Community Response Fund

The Texas Bankers Association (TBA) and Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) have united to establish the Uvalde Community Response Fund under the auspices of the Texas Bankers Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit that provides disaster relief, financial literacy, and educational support. Donations are being collected from individual banks, their employees and customers as well as major national brands.  These donations will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution.  Individual donations to the Uvalde Community Response Fund may be made via the Texas Bankers Foundation HERE.  For corporate contributions, contact Foundation Director Jocelyn Carby.

About Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country

The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, based in Kerrville, is a public charitable foundation that makes grants to nonprofits and awards academic scholarships in 10 counties: including Bandera, Blanco, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Mason, Real, and Uvalde. The Community Foundation is collecting donations for survivors through its Uvalde Survivors Fund. These donations will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution. To donate, visit Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country  or mail a payment to 241 Earl Garrett Street, Kerrville, Texas 78028.

About San Antonio Area Foundation

The San Antonio Area Foundation (SAAFdn) has served as the city’s community-giving headquarters for nearly 60 years, growing to become one of the top 20 community foundations in the nation. The Area Foundation serves as San Antonio’s most trusted and impactful philanthropic partner, managing more than 500 charitable funds nearly $1 billion in assets. The Area Foundation is collecting donations for survivors through its Uvalde Survivors Fund. These donations will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution. To donate, visit www.saafdn.org/Uvalde  or mail a payment to 303 Pearl Parkway, Suite 114, San Antonio, Texas 78215.

OneStar awarded $32.7 million in AmeriCorps funding for Texas

Record investment for national service in Texas will support more than 3,600 AmeriCorps members to meet local community needs

AUSTIN – OneStar announced today that Texas received $32.7 million from AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. This funding will be distributed to 50 organizations across the state to engage 3,611 AmeriCorps members within in local communities.

This year’s historic funding represents the largest ever investment in national service in Texas and includes money from AmeriCorps’ $1 billion American Rescue Plan allocation, which supports efforts to respond to the public health, education and economic crises caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding also comprises grant awards for Public Health AmeriCorps, a partnership between AmeriCorps and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced this year to support the recruitment, training, and development of a new generation of public health leaders.

“This incredible investment in national service is a testament to the impact of our AmeriCorps members and the essential role they play in helping Texas communities thrive and build resilience,” said Chris Bugbee, OneStar President & CEO. “AmeriCorps gives Texans the opportunity to put their values into action and make a difference while also developing civic and leadership skills to last a lifetime.”

In the coming year, AmeriCorps members will address pressing social challenges in Texas through a variety of service opportunities. For example, AmeriCorps members may serve as tutors in low-income schools, advance college access for first-generation college students, train adults in job readiness skills, distribute food to children and families in need, provide support for those experiencing homelessness, respond to Texas communities recovering from disaster and much more.

The $32.7 million in funding, administered by OneStar, will be distributed to the following organizations operating in Texas. This year’s portfolio of grantees includes 11 inaugural AmeriCorps programs and seven recipients of Planning Grants, which support organizations interested in exploring and launching new AmeriCorps programs in the near future.

  • Amarillo Independent School District
  • American YouthWorks
  • Austin Achieve Public Schools
  • Big Thought
  • Boys & Girls Club of Pharr*
  • Breakthrough Central Texas
  • ChildFund International USA
  • City of Houston*
  • City of San Antonio*
  • City Year Dallas
  • City Year San Antonio
  • CitySquare
  • College Possible
  • Collegiate Edu-Nation*
  • Communities In Schools of Central Texas
  • Communities In Schools of North Texas
  • Communities In Schools of San Antonio
  • Creative Action*
  • Equal Heart
  • Fort Bend Family Health Center*
  • Front Steps
  • Generation Teach*
  • Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas
  • Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas*
  • Imagine Art
  • Interfaith Ministries of Greater Houston*
  • Legacy Community Health Services
  • Literacy Coalition of Central Texas
  • National College Advising Corps
  • Project Transformation
  • Reading Partners
  • Relay Graduate School of Education
  • Sewa International
  • Student Conservation Association*
  • Teach For America
  • Texas Network of Youth Services
  • Travis County
  • United Way of El Paso County
  • University of North Texas
  • University of Texas at Austin
  • University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
  • Vanguard Academy*
  • West Texas A&M University

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Planning Grants

  • Campus Compact
  • City of Killeen
  • CLC Inc.
  • Health360 Inc.
  • Homeward Bound Inc.
  • Texas Association of Regional Councils
  • Texas Southmost College District

* New AmeriCorps Texas program

AmeriCorps State and National, a federal-state partnership with a central role for governor-appointed state service commissions like OneStar, develops and implements state-specific national service programs. These grants allow organizations to recruit, train and supervise AmeriCorps members who provide services in the areas of education, disaster response & recovery, health, environmental stewardship, economic opportunity and support for veterans & military families.

In addition to the grant funding, AmeriCorps will provide an additional $14.1 million in Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards for AmeriCorps members in Texas funded by these grants. After completing a full term of service, AmeriCorps members receive an award of approximately $6,500 that they can use for tuition at eligible schools and educational programs or qualified student loan repayment.

Programs across the state are currently recruiting AmeriCorps members to serve in the coming year. AmeriCorps Texas members may be eligible to receive benefits including a living allowance, health care, childcare, and the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. Visit volunteertx.org to search and apply for AmeriCorps positions in Texas.

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About AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps, the federal agency for volunteerism and national service, provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, the agency places more than 250,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in intensive service roles; and empowers millions more to serve as long-term, short-term, or one-time volunteers. Learn more at AmeriCorps.gov.

About OneStar

OneStar strengthens Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. We advance service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. We are recognized as a statewide voice for the Texas nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies and the business community. Born from state government in 1974, we carry out our mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

Nominations now open for the 39th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards

A version of this press release was originally posted here by the Office of the Texas Governor.

Governor’s Volunteer Awards honor those who have made a difference through service across Texas

AUSTIN — Just in time for Global Volunteer Month, nominations are now open for the 39th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards. The Governor’s Volunteer Awards are administered by OneStar Foundation and are an opportunity for the state of Texas to honor the exemplary service and volunteerism of individuals and organizations making a significant impact in communities across Texas even as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded.

“Promoting volunteerism and service throughout Texas is my top priority,” said Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott. “Greg and I are inspired by the organizations and individuals across Texas who are making a difference in their communities, and we are honored to recognize them through the Governor’s Volunteer Awards. The true strength of the Lone Star State is in our people, and nothing brings us more joy than celebrating the spirit of service that is a hallmark of being Texan.”

Nominations for the awards are open in nine categories:

  • Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award
  • First Lady’s Youth Volunteer Rising Star Award
  • Volunteer of the Year Award
  • Volunteer Family of the Year Award
  • Corporate Volunteering Champion Award
  • Service-Learning Champion Award
  • Innovation in Volunteerism Award
  • Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism Award
  • National Service “Make a Difference” Award

For descriptions of the award categories or to nominate an individual or organization, visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

A list of last year’s 2021 Governor’s Volunteer Award winners can be found at onestarfoundation.org/first-lady-cecilia-abbott-onestar-announce-2021-governors-volunteer-awards-recipients. (Previous award winners may be available for media interviews upon request.)

“As Texas communities address the needs that have emerged in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, nonprofits are more dependent than ever on the generosity of volunteers,” said Chris Bugbee, President & CEO of OneStar Foundation. “We are grateful to Texas Governor Greg Abbott and First Lady Cecilia Abbott for their enduring commitment to promoting service and volunteering to strengthen and uplift every community in our great state.”

The National COVID-19 Community Impact Survey conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank in August 2021 found that nearly 70 percent of the nonprofits surveyed experienced an increased demand for their services compared to pre-pandemic levels. When needs increase, volunteers stand in the gap to address the growing and evolving issues facing local communities. However, surveys found that total volunteers declined by 33 percent on average in 2020, with nonprofits in rural areas experiencing the largest declines. This has resulted in challenges for nonprofits relying on volunteer resources. Meanwhile, 40 percent of these community organizations experienced a decline in staffing levels.

“The Governor’s Volunteer Awards offer a unique opportunity to honor the individuals and organizations that took action in their communities when they were needed most, despite the challenges of the pandemic,” says Bugbee. “They set an example for others to give back in their own communities and show us what’s possible when we work together. Just look around you, and you’ll find that volunteer heroes can come from anywhere. We hope to inspire all Texans to consider how you can make a difference through service.”

Nominations will close Friday July 29, 2022. Awardees will be honored during next year’s Global Volunteer Month in April 2023 at an evening reception at the Governor’s Mansion. For more information visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

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About OneStar

OneStar strengthens Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. We advance service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. We are recognized as a statewide voice for the Texas nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies and the business community. As a nonprofit born from state government, we carry out our unique mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

 

Schultz Family Foundation Launches $1 Million National Service Challenge to Support National Service as a Pathway of Opportunity for Young People

This press release was originally posted here by the Schultz Family Foundation.

SEATTLE — The Schultz Family Foundation, founded by Sheri Schultz and former Starbucks CEO and Chairman Emeritus Howard Schultz, today announced recipients of its National Service Challenge to support national service as a pathway of opportunity for young people, especially people of color and young adults from low-income households.

Recognizing the role of philanthropy as an innovation partner to the public sector, the Foundation launched the National Service Challenge in May 2021 to offer matching grants of $100,000 to $250,000 to state service commissions partnering with philanthropy to increase diversity of AmeriCorps, to make service a pathway of opportunity for all young people, and to offer support and mentorship during and after their service. As a result of the Challenge, the Schultz Family Foundation is investing $3.5 million in seven U.S. states: Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington. The Foundation’s investments will be supplemented by $5.1 million in matching grants from other philanthropic partners, which the Challenge helped to unlock.

The Challenge builds upon the Foundation’s learnings and impact over the past year in developing the Washington COVID Response Corps, a first-of-its-kind youth service program created in partnership with Serve Washington to respond to record levels of community need resulting from the COVID-19 crisis while expanding meaningful opportunities to young people whose lives were disrupted by the pandemic. In its second year, the program is being expanded to address community needs in addition to food insecurity such as mental health, workforce development, and mentoring for middle school students in support of foster youth.

Challenge grants will support the seven states in the following ways:

  • Iowa: Volunteer Iowa and its key partner, Refugee RISE AmeriCorps, will pursue a set of initiatives designed to make Iowa AmeriCorps programs more accessible to those from low socioeconomic status, increase member professional development, make Iowa service sites more welcoming of members from diverse backgrounds, and prepare more BIPOC-led and rural non-profits to engage with national service.
  • Michigan: Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC) will focus the core of its work on increasing the recruitment and retention of youth AmeriCorps members of color. MCSC will pilot a pre-service basic needs assessment with incoming members to identify barriers to successfully completing a service year. Individuals with identified barriers will receive financial support and connection with community organizations to mitigate challenges.
  • Minnesota: In addition to establishing an emergency assistance fund for AmeriCorps members across the state, ServeMinnesota will pilot the Pathways to Economic Inclusion Through AmeriCorps initiative, which will provide 20 AmeriCorps members with the opportunity to earn an Associate in Arts (AA) degree tuition-free; an increased living stipend; assistance from a resource navigation specialist; professional development opportunities; and a “last dollar” fund to cover additional or unforeseen costs associated with earning their AA degree.
  • Pennsylvania: PennSERVE will take a multi-pronged approach to increasing recruitment, retention, and outcomes for BIPOC and/or low-income youth AmeriCorps members by: 1) piloting a cross-program initiative and shared on-the-ground recruiter to build a service to city government career pathway; 2) launching an emergency assistance fund; and 3) creating a learning community among programs to share innovations and work around increasing diversity and equity.
  • South Carolina: The South Carolina Service Commission will build on its multifaceted strategy to expand service and advance equity within the state by focusing on recruitment and retention. The Commission will work alongside Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), service clubs, and other key community leaders to raise awareness of available service opportunities through AmeriCorps, focusing specifically on recruiting and enrolling youth and young men of color. To better support AmeriCorps Members during their year of service, the Commission will expand its emergency assistance fund, which was piloted in 2020. In the pilot year 100% of AmeriCorps Members who benefitted from the fund graduated from their service terms rather than having to make a difficult financial decision to withdraw from their term of service to afford the cost of an emergent need.
  • Texas: OneStar Foundation (a.k.a. Texas State Service Commission) will build on work piloted by AmeriCorps Central Texas (ACT), a unique collaborative of nine AmeriCorps grantees that came together to develop new recruitment strategies focused on engaging young people within their local communities to serve. OneStar Foundation will take the effective practices identified by ACT and scale the strategies statewide while continuing to support ACT’s innovative approach to place-based recruitment. In addition, OneStar will be investing in professional development resources and trainings for AmeriCorps members statewide focused on supporting their post-service career path.
  • Washington: Through a partnership with Serve Washington, the Foundation will fund a second year of the Washington Covid Response Corps, expanding the focus of the corps beyond food insecurity to additional community needs such as mental health, economic development, and learning loss among elementary school students. The Response Corps will also continue its work in developing national service as a pathway to opportunity for all young people in Washington state through additional member development training focused on supporting each member’s post-service career path and providing training that results in the form of an earned credential.

All seven states will participate in a learning collaborative facilitated by America’s Service Commissions to share insights and best practices, which will result in research that will be shared with every state service commission across the country.

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About the Schultz Family Foundation
The Schultz Family Foundation, established in 1996 by Sheri and Howard Schultz, former ceo and chairman emeritus of Starbucks, creates pathways of opportunity for populations facing barriers to success, focusing on youth transitioning to adulthood and marginalized populations, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. By investing in scalable solutions and partnerships in communities across the country, the Foundation aims to help tackle the barriers and roadblocks that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential and, in doing so, strengthen our communities and our nation. For more information about the Foundation and its work: schultzfamilyfoundation.org.

First Lady Cecilia Abbott, OneStar Foundation Announce 2021 Governor’s Volunteer Awards Recipients

This press release was originally posted here by The Office of the Texas Governor.

AUSTIN — Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Honorary Chair of the Governor’s Volunteer Awards, today announced the recipients of the 39th annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards. These awards, presented in conjunction with OneStar, honor the exemplary service of individuals, groups, and organizations that have made a significant and measurable contribution to Texas communities through service and volunteering in the past year.

“I am thrilled to recognize the 14 outstanding awardees of this year’s Governor’s Volunteer Awards for their selfless dedication to Texans across the state,” said Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott. “The true strength of Texas is found in our people, and this year’s award winners are a moving testament to the character of the Lone Star State.”

“This year’s award recipients reflect the strength and resilience inherent in the Texan spirit of service,” said Chris Bugbee, OneStar President and CEO. “We are honored to shine a spotlight on these stellar examples of volunteer service with the hope that it will inspire even more generations of Texans to get involved and take action in their own community.”

Awardees will be honored during National Volunteer Month in April at an exclusive reception hosted at the Texas Governor’s Mansion. 

The recipients of the 39th Governor’s Volunteer Awards are:

  • Chuck & Gena Norris (Navasota) | Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award

    Known as an actor and martial arts legend, Chuck Norris, alongside his wife Gena, has channeled his skills and celebrity into helping youth develop the mental and physical strength to deal with life’s challenges. Chuck launched Kickstart Kids in 1992 with the goal that students will develop character, create stronger school and family connections, strive for higher academic and social success, and become productive members of their community. The program engages students, often from vulnerable communities, with a healthy peer group and the positive influence of a strong role model and mentor in their instructor. More than 110,000 students have benefitted from this life-changing program since its inception. In addition to their ongoing leadership of Kickstart Kids, the Norris’ volunteer efforts also include visiting hospitalized and active troops, serving as a spokesperson for United Way, and serving on the board of the Council on Bible Curriculum in Public Schools and Rachel’s Challenge. Additionally, Gena serves on the Advisory Board for the Council for Life and Board of Reference on the Christian Film and Television Commission.

  • Cindy Brinker Simmons (Dallas/Fort Worth) | Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award

    Cindy Brinker Simmons has devoted her life to uplifting the lives of pediatric cancer patients throughout Texas and supporting those battling illness, hopelessness, or isolation fostered by this disease. Since Cindy established Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) in 1980, it has grown to be one of Dallas’ largest pediatric cancer organizations, providing critical seed money for childhood cancer research, supplying comfort items to young cancer patients during hospital stays, and offering year-round social events and programs designed to encourage these brave heroes and their families. She has proven to be a powerhouse fundraiser while also personally engaging with young “WOKC Warriors” and their resilient families battling pediatric cancer.

  • Betty Ann Taylor (Houston) | Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award

    For 24 years, Betty Ann Taylor has run the Year-Round Manna Ministry, a program of Chapelwood United Methodist Church that builds a bridge of hope for families in crisis in the Houston community. What started as a Christmas giving campaign has evolved under her leadership to provide basic necessities—rent, utilities, food, and clothing—to more than 3,600 families. By working with the Spring Branch Independent School District and Communities in Schools social workers on school campuses, Betty Ann has created a sustainable system for serving the most vulnerable families in the community, even throughout the past pandemic year.

  • Hannah Guan (San Antonio) | First Lady’s Rising Star Volunteer Award

    At age 11, Hannah Guan founded San Antonio Math Include (SaMi) to offer greater access to STEM education to all students from different backgrounds, experiences, and cultural perspectives. In four years, Hannah has grown SaMi into an international network connecting more than 36,000 students to tutors, principals, counselors, teachers, and after-school program coordinators in hundreds of schools across the world. SaMi offers free classes, develops curriculum, and awards scholarships to close the digital divide for students from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Through partnerships with the United Nations Major Group of Children & Youth and the Global Youth Constituency for Quality Education, SaMi’s online curriculum programs are accessible to more than 300,000 students around the world. As a leading member of the Texas Student Bill Demands and vice-chair of San Antonio Youth Commission, Hannah leads the AI Closing the Digital Divide Move to introduce artificial intelligence and provide training to teachers in all high schools in San Antonio.

  • Madan G. Luthra (Houston) | Volunteer of the Year Award

    Since COVID-19 hit the Houston community, Madan G. Luthra has volunteered more than 30 hours a week to support families in distress through Sewa International’s Family Services program. In addition to answering calls on the nonprofit’s helpline and connecting families to groceries, supplies, funeral arrangements, and other social services, Madan actively volunteers with local food and COVID-19 vaccination drives organized in collaboration with local faith-based and community organizations. As a retired research scientist, Madan has spearheaded the creation of a donor registry website that connects plasma donors with COVID-19 patients undergoing convalescent plasma therapy. Madan was honored by the Hindus of Greater Houston with the 2020 Akhil Chopra Unsung Heroes Award and was featured for his efforts in Houston Chronicle’s “Heroes of the Front Line” series and in Alumni Magazine of University of Leeds UK, where he received his doctorate education.

  • Richard & Linda Zoll (Houston) | Volunteer Family of the Year

    Richard and Linda have served with SEARCH Homeless Services for over 20 years — from preparing and serving meals to essentially adopting one of the sites at which SEARCH’s clients reside. Every month, the Zolls visit the Temenos apartments to create connections and celebrate milestones with those making the emotional transition from homelessness to housing. They host BINGO games with birthday celebrations and lead field trips, allowing residents to integrate more fully into the community. They also verified and assisted with voter registration for all 115 residents at Temenos.

  • Diamondback Energy, Inc. (Midland/Permian Basin) | Corporate Volunteering Champion Award

    Diamondback Energy, Inc. understands the importance of building a culture of giving back and has channeled this into support for local public schools. With the Permian Basin’s growing population of English as a Second Language learners, the company encourages employees as well as other local groups to get involved and has implemented literacy and STEM programs at school campuses and other youth nonprofits. In addition, Diamondback Energy leaders and employees are encouraged to actively serve on boards that support the work of educating students, providing adequate facilities, technology, and safety for public schools, and building up the local workforce. In addition to their support of education, the Diamondback Energy team also assists local nonprofit Keep Midland Beautiful with efforts to keep the city growing and green. Since the start of 2020, the company has contributed about 430 hours of service and over $5.2 million dollars to the Permian Basin community.

  • The Edinburg High School Chapter of the National Honor Society (Edinburg) | Service-Learning Champion Award

    The Edinburg High School Chapter of the National Honor Society has been a major asset in helping the South Texas Literacy Coalition with community outreach. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the group was instrumental in setting up and preparing for drive-by distributions and handed out more than 10,000 free books to students whose families are financially challenged. In addition, they have developed literacy activities, presented bilingual online book readings, and are presently hosting a virtual book club with the goal of helping students develop a love for reading and writing. Many of the members also serve with South Texas Literacy Coalition as interns, helping to manage the office and organize literacy resources. In addition to these efforts, the members of the Edinburg Chapter of the National Honor Society assist other nonprofits in the South Texas Region, including the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley, Ronald McDonald House, Greater Gold Foundation, Capable Kids Foundation, and Kiwanis International.

  • Hookset Brothers Combat Recovery 501c3 (Bullard) | Innovation in Volunteerism Award

    Hookset Brothers Combat Recovery 501c3 provides free hunting and fishing trips to aid veterans recovering from combat-related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Founded by wounded soldiers from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, this small East Texas nonprofit engages volunteers to support more than 100 combat veterans and their families each year. In addition to reaffirming the outdoors to veterans who are struggling with PTSD or suicidal thoughts, the organization provides Gold Star Families with hunting and fishing excursions while serving as male role models to help youths heal during their time of need. Beyond the outdoor programs, Hookset Brothers Combat Recovery has raised funds for funerals of fallen servicemen and women and host holiday celebrations for military families. They also volunteer as boat captains for high school fishing teams and as youth sports coaches within their community.

  • Somebody Cares America (Houston) | Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism Award

    During times of disaster, Somebody Cares America (SCA) mobilizes local churches and partner organizations to serve communities by providing financial and material resources along with training, manpower, leadership, and expertise. As a result, churches and their members become a volunteer army equipped to meet the needs of their neighborhoods. In every region of Texas and following every major disaster, SCA partner volunteers have distributed meals, supplies, and resources and assisted survivors with property repair and clean-up. Following Winter Storm Uri, SCA distributed plumbing supplies to address problems created by the freezing cold and provided nearly $100,000 in community grants and individual assistance to those impacted. In response to COVID-19, SCA supplied thousands of N-95 masks to first responders, medical professionals, and others throughout Texas. In the greater Houston area alone, SCA gave out $280,000 in funding as well as valuable in-kind gifts through dozens of partner churches and ministries to assist with hardships caused by the pandemic.

  • Nuria A. Diallo Padro (San Antonio) | National Service “Make a Difference” Award

    As an AmeriCorps member with Communities In Schools of San Antonio, Nuria A. Diallo Padro was innovative in the programming and outreach she provided to empower middle school students to excel academically, grow in their social-emotional learning, and explore future aspirations. Through a combination of trusting relationships and strategic execution, Nuria was able to effectively respond to the needs of families during the COVID-19 pandemic and Winter Storm Uri. In the midst of disaster, Nuria worked systematically to compile and share resources and outreach to disproportionately affected families. Responding to the urgent need for sustained food assistance, Nuria raised emergency funds to deliver grocery gift cards, and she partnered with the San Antonio Food Bank and the local school district to host a Mobile Food Pantry at her campus. As an AmeriCorps VISTA alumnus, Nuria used the skills from her VISTA experience to promote a food distribution event that engaged local community pantries and provided food support to 450 families.

For more information, visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

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About OneStar

OneStar strengthens Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. We advance service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. We are recognized as a statewide voice for the Texas nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies and the business community. Born from state government in 1974, we carry out our mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

38th annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards nominations extended to July 23

Governor’s Volunteer Awards honor those who have made a difference through service across Texas

What

The nomination deadline for the 38th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards have been extended. Submissions will close Friday, July 23

The Governor’s Volunteer Awards are administered by OneStar Foundation and are an opportunity for the state of Texas to honor the exemplary service and volunteerism of individuals and organizations making a significant impact in communities across Texas.

Nominations for the awards are open in nine categories:

  • Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award 
  • First Lady’s Youth Volunteer Rising Star Award
  • Volunteer of the Year Award 
  • Volunteer Family of the Year Award
  • Corporate Volunteering Champion Award
  • Service-Learning Champion Award
  • Innovation in Volunteerism Award
  • Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism Award
  • National Service “Make a Difference” Award

This year, the Governor’s Volunteer Awards is introducing three new award categories:

  • Volunteer Family of the Year Award – Volunteering together as a family is a special experience that extends care from within the household out into the community. This new award category celebrates families that prioritize service as a core personal value.
  • Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism Award – As the most disaster-prone state in the nation, Texas relies on volunteers in all phases of disaster response and are key to creating sustainable and meaningful impact. Disaster volunteers deserve recognition for providing hope and stability in the midst of stressful and vulnerable circumstances and for ensuring our state is resilient to future disasters.
  • Innovation in Volunteerism Award – During the COVID-19 pandemic, nonprofits developed incredible innovations—including virtual service opportunities and heightened safety protocols—to ensure continued volunteer engagement and service delivery. Volunteerism is always evolving to the shifting needs of our communities, and this award category highlights organizations that excel in adapting to these demands. 

Who

The general public is asked to submit nominations for individuals and organizations who exemplify service and volunteerism that makes a significant impact in their local community across Texas.

Where

For descriptions of the award categories or to nominate an individual or organization, visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

When

Nomination deadline is July 23, 2021

Awardees will be honored in the fall at an evening reception at the Governor’s Mansion hosted by Honorary Chair of the Governor’s Volunteer Awards, Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott.

For more information visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

Grant Announcement: $21.6 million awarded for AmeriCorps programs in Texas

OneStar announces $21.6 million in AmeriCorps funding for Texas

AUSTIN — OneStar today announced that Texas has received $21.6 million from AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and community volunteerism, to support 3,598 AmeriCorps members placed with 38 organizations throughout the state.

These AmeriCorps members will address some of the toughest social challenges in Texas by serving as tutors in low-income schools, providing college access services to first-generation college students, training adults in job readiness skills, distributing food to children and families in need, assisting with case management for the homeless, responding to Texas communities recovering from disaster, and much more.

This past year, AmeriCorps members were quick to adapt to meet the changing needs caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and developed new ways to deliver services while keeping both themselves and those they serve safe. AmeriCorps members in Texas have been active in hosting drive-through food and supply distributions, leading virtual education and enrichment activities to offset learning loss, and keeping vulnerable populations connected and engaged amidst social distancing requirements.

“Texans have endured many challenges this past year, and AmeriCorps members continue to play an essential role in helping communities recover and build resilience,” said Chris Bugbee, OneStar President & CEO. “AmeriCorps gives Texans the opportunity to put their values into action and make a difference while also developing civic and leadership skills to last a lifetime. I congratulate these outstanding organizations and thank all those who serve our Texas communities through AmeriCorps.”

The $21.6 million in funding, administered by OneStar, will be distributed to 38 organizations operating in Texas, including:

  • Access Health
  • Amarillo Independent School District
  • American YouthWorks
  • Austin Achieve Public Schools
  • Big Thought
  • BookSpring
  • Breakthrough
  • ChildFund International USA
  • City Year, Inc. (Dallas)
  • City Year, Inc. (San Antonio)
  • CitySquare
  • College Forward
  • Communities In Schools of Central Texas
  • Communities In Schools of North Texas
  • Communities In Schools of San Antonio
  • Equal Heart
  • Front Steps
  • Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas
  • Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas
  • Houston reVision
  • Imagine Art
  • Interfaith Ministries of Greater Houston
  • Legacy Community Health Services
  • Literacy Coalition of Central Texas
  • National College Advising Corps
  • Project Transformation
  • Reading Partners
  • Relay Graduate School of Education
  • Sewa International
  • Teach for America
  • Texas Department of State and Health Services
  • Texas Network of Youth Services
  • The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
  • Travis County Health and Human Services
  • United Way of El Paso County
  • University of North Texas
  • UT Austin Charles A. Dana Center
  • West Texas A&M University

AmeriCorps will provide an additional $14.3 million in Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards for the AmeriCorps members in Texas funded by these grants. After completing a full term of service, AmeriCorps members receive an award of approximately $6,300 that they can use to pay for college or to pay off student loans.

The recently passed American Rescue Plan includes an additional $1 billion for AmeriCorps. The agency will use this investment to expand national service programs into new communities and increase the opportunity for all Americans to serve their country.

Every year, 75,000 AmeriCorps members serve through thousands of nonprofit, community and faith-based organizations across the country. These citizens have played a critical role in the recovery of communities affected by disasters and helped thousands of first-generation college students access higher education. They also tutor and mentor young people, connect veterans to jobs, care for seniors, reduce crime and revive cities, fight the opioid epidemic, and meet other critical needs.

As the federal agency for volunteering and service, AmeriCorps brings people together to tackle the country’s most pressing challenges. Since the agency’s inception in 1994, nearly 1.2 million AmeriCorps members have served the nation.

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About OneStar
OneStar strengthens Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. We advance service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. We are recognized as a statewide voice for the Texas nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies and the business community. Born from state government in 1974, we carry out our mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

Aerial satellite image of a hurricane.

OneStar launches Rebuild Texas Hurricane Season Recovery Fund to support resilience of Texas communities

New fund now accepting donations for disaster recovery in anticipation of active 2021 Atlantic hurricane season

AUSTIN — On the first day of the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, OneStar announced the launch of the Rebuild Texas Hurricane Season Recovery Fund to support Texas communities affected by disaster.

“We know that living in Texas means that the next hurricane is not an ‘if’ but a ‘when.’ These storms disrupt the lives and livelihoods of millions of Texans each year with little warning,” said Chris Bugbee, OneStar President & CEO. “By proactively gathering and coordinating resources needed for recovery now, we can mitigate the devastating consequences of these disasters. Investing in the Hurricane Season Recovery Fund promotes the resilience of Texas communities and makes it easier for us to bounce back after a hurricane event.”

Researchers are forecasting above-average activity for this year’s Atlantic hurricane season, with predictions of up to 18 named storms, including as many as four major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher. At the same time, communities across Texas—still grappling with effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and Winter Storm Uri—are facing depleted resources as they brace for potential impacts of the hurricane season ahead.

The Hurricane Season Recovery Fund preemptively raises donations to ensure funding is readily available and can be quickly deployed in the aftermath of a major storm. This season, OneStar will work with state and local partners to assess the impact of weather events to Texas communities to ensure funding reaches organizations serving those most in need. 

Donations to the Fund will be directed to local organizations in communities affected by this hurricane season to ensure the immediate health and safety of Texans and to support short and longer-term recovery activities.

“The needs in the aftermath of a hurricane are tremendous, and it can take communities years to fully recover and rebuild after a major event,” said Michelle Brewer, OneStar board member and executive director of Hardin County Strong. “The Hurricane Season Recovery Fund gives us the opportunity to be strategic about how funding is distributed and adapt to fill critical gaps in the recovery effort.”

OneStar is currently accepting donations to the Hurricane Season Recovery Fund at onestarfoundation.org/hurricane-season-recovery-fund. Donations will be accepted year round.

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About OneStar
OneStar strengthens Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. We advance service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. We are recognized as a statewide voice for the Texas nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies and the business community. Born from state government in 1974, we carry out our mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

Nominations now open for the 38th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards

A version of this press release was originally posted here by the Office of the Texas Governor.

Governor’s Volunteer Awards honor those who have made a difference through service across Texas

AUSTIN — Nominations are open for the 38th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards. The Governor’s Volunteer Awards are administered by OneStar Foundation and are an opportunity for the state of Texas to honor the exemplary service and volunteerism of individuals and organizations making a significant impact in communities across Texas.

“The resilient spirit Texans demonstrate day after day, year after year is alive and well,” said Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott. “Time and again, Greg and I see the spirit of service across our great state. We are grateful for the many ways Texans care for and serve each other. The volunteer spirit that permeates the communities across our state is overwhelming. The Governor’s Volunteer Awards recognize the spirit and service of the Lone Star State.”

Nominations for the awards are open in nine categories:

  • Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award
  • First Lady’s Youth Volunteer Rising Star Award
  • Volunteer of the Year Award
  • Volunteer Family of the Year Award
  • Corporate Volunteering Champion Award
  • Service-Learning Champion Award
  • Innovation in Volunteerism Award
  • Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism Award
  • National Service “Make a Difference” Award

For descriptions of the award categories or to nominate an individual or organization, visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

A list of last year’s 2020 Governor’s Volunteer Award winners can be found at onestarfoundation.org/first-lady-cecilia-abbott-onestar-foundation-announce-2020-governors-volunteer-awards-recipients. (Previous award winners may be available for media interviews upon request.)

“We are grateful to the Governor and First Lady for recognizing and celebrating the impact of volunteers in Texas,” said Chris Bugbee, OneStar CEO. “Each year we are inspired by the incredible acts of service from our Governor’s Volunteer Award winners.”

The past year has been a challenge for nonprofits engaging volunteers and has required extraordinary adaptability and innovation. OneStar surveyed Texas nonprofit organizations in late 2020 with a goal of better understanding how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected their work and missions (Texas Nonprofit Leaders’ COVID-19 Impact Report, December 2020). The survey showed that:

  • 42% of respondents faced increased demand for services from their clients and communities due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • 76% of respondents endured moderate to severe reductions in volunteer engagement for delivering their programs and services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Though the last year has been unlike any other we have known, volunteers have demonstrated incredible resilience and remained committed to giving their time and talent to support communities across Texas,” Bugbee said. “We all recognize the heightened needs and challenges the pandemic has brought. We look forward to recognizing those who continued serving others and provided light in what has been a dark time for so many.”

This year, the Governor’s Volunteer Awards is introducing three new award categories:

  • Volunteer Family of the Year Award
    Volunteering together as a family is a special experience that extends care from within the household out into the community. This new award category celebrates families that prioritize service as a core personal value.
  • Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism Award
    As the most disaster-prone state in the nation, Texas relies on volunteers in all phases of disaster response and are key to creating sustainable and meaningful impact. Disaster volunteers deserve recognition for providing hope and stability in the midst of stressful and vulnerable circumstances and for ensuring our state is resilient to future disasters.
  • Innovation in Volunteerism Award
    During the COVID-19 pandemic, nonprofits developed incredible innovations—including virtual service opportunities and heightened safety protocols—to ensure continued volunteer engagement and service delivery. Volunteerism is always evolving to the shifting needs of our communities, and this award category highlights organizations that excel in adapting to these demands.

Nominations will close July 16, 2021. Awardees will be honored in the fall at an evening reception at the Governor’s Mansion hosted by Honorary Chair of the Governor’s Volunteer Awards, Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott. For more information visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

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About OneStar
OneStar strengthens Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. We advance service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. We are recognized as a statewide voice for the Texas nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies and the business community. Born from state government in 1974, we carry out our mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.