OneStar launches VolunteerTX, an online hub for volunteerism throughout the Lone Star State

04/19/2021 |
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Statewide volunteer connector platform launch coincides with National Volunteer Week

NOTE: OneStar board members from around the state have provided quotes regarding the launch of VolunteerTX and can be found in an addendum, following the press release.

AUSTIN — In celebration of National Volunteer Week set for April 18-24, OneStar is launching VolunteerTX, a new digital hub that connects individuals with volunteer opportunities throughout Texas.

“When we realized the primary barrier standing between many Texans and volunteering was a way to find meaningful volunteer opportunities, we knew we had to do something. VolunteerTX connects individuals with projects and organizations that inspire them to serve,” said Chris Bugbee, OneStar CEO. “ VolunteerTX is a major milestone. It is the first single source for volunteering across the state. We are honored to work with incredible local partners whose work helps make this achievement possible.”

National Volunteer Week recognizes the impact volunteer service has on communities, as well as the power of volunteers to tackle society’s greatest challenges and provides the perfect opportunity for OneStar to launch VolunteerTX, Bugbee said.

“Texans truly are generous by nature. We have seen again and again — during floods, fires and hurricanes, or even in the challenges of daily life — that no force of nature is more powerful than Texans helping Texans,” said Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott. “ VolunteerTX is the perfect tool to help Texans make even more of a positive difference in their communities. The Governor and I thank OneStar for creating an even brighter future for the Lone Star State.”

In essence, VolunteerTX will be a one-stop shop connecting people who want to help with organizations and causes that need support. VolunteerTX is publicly available for anyone to search and currently features nearly 2,000 listings, which can be filtered by geography, issue area, commitment level, and more. The website is the most comprehensive database of volunteer opportunities in Texas and pulls in volunteer opportunities from local volunteer connector organizations, including:

  • Volunteer Houston
  • Volunteer South Texas at the United Way of South Texas
  • The United Way of San Antonio & Bexar County Volunteer Center
  • The Volunteer Center of Lubbock
  • Volunteer El Paso at the United Way of El Paso
  • The Volunteer Center, a program of the Round Rock Area Serving Center

VolunteerTX was developed in partnership with Points of Light using the technology behind the Points of Light Engage volunteer aggregator in its first statewide application.

“As a lifelong Texan, I know the giving spirit of Texans – we’re here to help, to support, to build hope and community,” said Neil Bush, board chair, Points of Light. “My dad instilled a commitment to service in our family from a very early age, and as the board chair of Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service, I have seen firsthand the power of people to create change. I know there are thousands of points of light across Texas, citizens ready to step in and give their time, talent and treasure to help others. VolunteerTX makes it easy to take the willingness to serve and find opportunities to do so across this great state.”

VolunteerTX was created after OneStar surveyed Texas nonprofit organizations in late 2020 with a goal of better understanding how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting 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.

VolunteerTX will help create pathways for individuals to engage in their communities and, likewise, accelerate the impact of organizations that rely on volunteers. Individuals interested in volunteering said the top three barriers to volunteering were all related to not knowing how to find meaningful service opportunities (Points of Light Civic Engagement Topline Report, September 2020), with the following findings:

  • 44% of respondents were unsure how to get involved or where to find opportunities
  • 44% of respondents could not find opportunities near them
  • 43% of respondents were not sure what they could do that would be helpful

As COVID-19 vaccines are distributed and all forms of volunteering become less risky, VolunteerTX provides a convenient way to find both remote and in-person opportunities for Texans to serve their communities. Visit volunteertx.org to find local volunteer opportunities.

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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.

OneStar Board Member Quotes

Michelle Brewer, Disaster Recovery Director, Silsbee

“Being from a small county impacted by a big disaster, we understand how critical volunteerism is in underserved communities. We appreciate programming and partnerships like VolunteerTX that provide a platform to drive volunteers to more rural areas like ours, allowing us to share our mission and message on a broader scale. Volunteerism is vital in all communities. It bridges gaps, builds faith and brings hope.”

Bonnie Brown, Rio Grande Valley (Raymondville)

“The name of our great State of Texas originated from an East Texas Native American word — Tejas, meaning ‘friend’ or ‘ally.’ It’s exciting to know that we may embody that meaning by helping each other. With VolunteerTX launching, Texans have even better opportunities to be friends and allies seeking opportunities to help neighbors. By the droves, Texans readily volunteer after natural disasters. Now there’s a way to volunteer year round.”

George Green, New Braunfels

“Volunteering is my way of giving back to the sum total of my education, experience and love for my community, state and nation. VolunteerTX is the perfect conduit to make a positive difference.”

Mary Grace Landrum, Houston

“Friends and neighbors often say, ‘I want to do some meaningful work, but I don’t know where to go.’ VolunteerTX gives people an easy way to match their skills and interest with those in need.”

Brad Namdar, Dallas

“VolunteerTX is an awesome and tremendous platform launched with OneStar. VolunteerTX will give countless opportunities for our great citizens in Dallas County to volunteer, be involved and help with a variety of noble nonprofit and social initiatives.”

Corey Tabor, Austin

“The people of Central Texas are known for their big hearts and willingness to give back. VolunteerTX gives them an easy way to take action and meet community needs.”

Chuck Wright, Frisco

“There is nothing as uniting to Texans as working together to solve problems. No better example of this than as seen during Hurricane Harvey where the Gator Nation and their shallow draft fishing boats selflessly rushed to the aid of fellow citizens. VolunteerTX is a way to do that on a regular basis.”

Texas Nonprofit Leaders' COVID-19 Impact Report Cover

Statewide COVID-19 survey details the deep and disproportionate impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on Texas nonprofits

12/07/2020 |

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AUSTIN, TEXAS – A statewide survey on the effects of COVID-19 reveals that Texas nonprofits—a sector tied to 1 in 8 jobs in the state— are facing many challenges due to the pandemic, with some Texas nonprofits being hit disproportionately hard.

Key survey findings include:

  • More than half (58%) of organizations have suffered severe reductions or a complete loss of volunteer support—a critical workforce for nonprofit service delivery.
  • The pandemic has also affected the paid workforce of Texas nonprofits, with Black-led organizations experiencing disproportionate human resource impacts.
  • Nonprofits have faced significant changes in revenue because of COVID-19, including declines in individual donations (68.5%) and fee-for-service earnings (68.3%).
  • Texas nonprofits not serving major metropolitan areas were more likely to be experiencing a number of operational challenges, such as the cancellation of major fundraising events (74.3%), disruption of services to their communities (67.6%), and workforce-related challenges (56.9%) than organizations serving the Houston, Austin, San Antonio and Dallas-Fort Worth regions.
  • Texas nonprofits (43%) have faced an increased demand for services with organizations serving LGBTQ+ communities (52.2%), communities of color (52.6%), and low income-income households (52.2%) as well as those led by Latinx leaders (53.4%) facing the greatest strain.
  • Black-led nonprofits (50%) are facing the greatest risks to organizational sustainability and longevity—a direct result of funding disparities and inequities.
  • Unfortunately, some nonprofits—especially those serving rural communities—have not had equal access to relief and assistance programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program or Economic Injury Disaster Loans.
  • Nonprofits leaders feel the greatest support from their boards of directors (67.6%) but do not feel very supported by corporate partners (19.9%) or elected officials (20.5%).

United Ways of Texas and OneStar Foundation in partnership with the Center for Nonprofits & Philanthropy at the Texas A&M University’s Bush School of Government & Public Service released this second statewide survey to better understand how the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect organizations across the sector.

“All across Texas, nonprofits are providing critical support to those impacted by the pandemic, and at the same time facing unprecedented challenges in sustaining their work. While some issues are being faced consistently across the state, this survey revealed some nonprofits are being hit harder, such as those led by or serving historically underrepresented groups, those serving rural communities, and small organizations with budgets less than $100,000. Now more than ever, we need Texans to come together in support of our nonprofits,” said Chris Bugbee, President and CEO of OneStar Foundation.

In addition to survey results, the report also provides ways that policymakers, philanthropy, and business leaders can ensure all Texas nonprofits have the capacity, resources, and flexibility to best serve their communities now and well beyond COVID-19.

“During times of disaster, Texans look to nonprofits for support, and certainly during this pandemic, we have seen Texans increasing reliance on the state’s nonprofit sector for necessities. This survey demonstrates how Texas nonprofits continue to step up and support Texans in need, even when their own organizations are struggling.” said Adrianna Cuellar Rojas, President and CEO of United Ways of Texas. “We hope these findings encourage policymakers, philanthropy, and business to consider the role they can play in supporting Texas nonprofits to survive the pandemic in order to keep supporting Texans in need.”

Every day, nonprofits touch the lives of all Texans while also playing a vital role in the state’s economy and provision of services. Texas nonprofits continue to meet increasing community needs resulting from COVID-19 while also meeting their missions and driving community impact forward.  Now more than ever, Texas nonprofits need additional support to ensure they can continue providing essential services to communities across the state.

Find the report on the Built for Texas website txnonprofits.org/covidimpact.

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United Ways of Texas
As an association of independent United Ways across the state, UWT leads and supports our network toward a vision of being United for a Future where all Texans thrive. To achieve this, UWT strives to build nonprofit organizational capacity and enhance the impact of community-based nonprofits across the state including United Way. This includes nonpartisan advocacy and policy focused on improving the health, education, and financial well-being of individuals and communities. Learn more at uwtexas.org.

OneStar Foundation
OneStar Foundation was created to support the State of Texas by strengthening the nonprofit sector, encouraging civic engagement through service and volunteering, promoting innovative strategies to address local issues, and facilitating public-private partnerships to expand the reach of the sector. As the Texas State Service Commission, OneStar administers a portfolio of $18.7 million in federal grant funds for AmeriCorps Texas programs. OneStar also has been designated by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to raise and distribute funds to eligible organizations working on the ground to support the economic recovery of Texas communities impacted by COVID-19. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org. 

Center for Nonprofits and Philanthropy at The Bush School of Government & Public Service
The Center for Nonprofits and Philanthropy (CNP) supports a vibrant nonprofit and philanthropic center in Texas and beyond through high-quality research, professional outreach, and engaged learning. Center outreach activities support the effective management of nonprofit organizations by bringing the most relevant research and scholarship to nonprofit professionals through workshops, seminars, and conferences. Our courses balance practical skills preparation and challenging curriculum with supportive faculty. The CNP team, including Dr. Will Brown, director, and Nicole Collier, research associate, engages in cutting-edge research covering a range of topics and informs our understanding of nonprofits and philanthropy, including work on the previous Built for Texas report.

First Lady Cecilia Abbott, OneStar Foundation Announce 2020 Governor’s Volunteer Awards Recipients

11/06/2020 |

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AUSTIN, TEXAS — Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Honorary Chair of the 2020 Governor’s Volunteer Awards, today announced the recipients of the 37th 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.

“The irrepressible spirit of service shines brightly in Texas,” the First Lady said. “I am honored to celebrate the extraordinary generosity of these 12 outstanding awardees, who have found selfless and compassionate solutions to strengthen their communities.”

OneStar Foundation was created to support the State of Texas by strengthening the nonprofit sector, encouraging civic engagement through service and volunteering, promoting innovative strategies to address local issues, and facilitating public-private partnerships to expand the reach of the sector. OneStar Foundation is the Governor-designated National Service Commission in Texas and administers the AmeriCorps State grant program. OneStar is also home to Texas’ Faith-Based and Community Initiative. OneStar Foundation connects partners and resources to build a stronger nonprofit sector in Texas. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

The recipients of the 2020 Governor’s Volunteer Awards are:

Governor’s Lone Star Achievement Award: Bill Gilliland (Abilene)

Since 1990, Bill Gilliland has devoted himself to making “Christmas Lane” at the Abilene State Supported Living Center the region’s essential holiday destination. 2019 marked the 30th anniversary of this beloved seasonal tradition, which features more than 100 festive displays and hosts thousands of guests from across the region. The community extravaganza generates free-will donations from guests for the state-supported living center, which provides direct services and assistance to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Bill devotes more than 500 hours in service each year to coordinating Christmas Lane, and he has been instrumental in various fundraising events that have raised more than $650,000 in medical upgrades for the center.

First Lady’s Rising Star Award: Annie Zhu & Shirley Zhu (Houston)

Twin sisters Annie Zhu & Shirley Zhu (17) take decisive action when they see a need in their community. To tackle the issue of food insecurity in Houston, they launched Project Fresh Hub, a student-led volunteer service initiative dedicated to providing under-served communities with rescued food. From April 2018 to October 2020, the two young women led 18 food distribution events, rescuing 11,800 pounds of unsold fresh produce and bread from grocery stores and delivering them to 1,550 residents in food deserts. Upon learning about budget cuts in their school district, Annie and Shirley also started summer math camps and workshops in 2019 that helped more than 90 fourth- through sixth-graders prepare for their standardized tests.

First Lady’s Rising Star Award: The Three Mask-eteers (Houston) 

When the COVID-19 pandemic began, Amar Sehgal (17), Karthik Bhagavatula (15), and Praneel Bhagavatula (13)— known as “The Three Mask-eteers”—banded together to apply their ingenuity and community spirit toward designing and producing high-quality, long-use masks that have prevented Houstonians and other Texans from falling prey to the deadly virus. The team spent weeks researching and developing a reusable 3-D printed mask prototype with disposable filters, then collaborated with Environmental Officers at local hospitals to further refine the mask design. Over the course of five months, more than 200 masks and 2,000 filters have been distributed at no cost to vulnerable populations across the state, including healthcare workers and first responders.

Partners in Education Award: The Women’s Fund for Health Education and Resiliency (Houston)

The Women’s Fund understands that “good health promotes education, and education promotes good health.” For more than 40 years, The Women’s Fund has provided creative and effective health education programs for at-risk adolescent girls in the Greater Houston community. Their programs engage well-trained volunteers to serve as mentors and facilitators at campuses and community centers across the Houston area, and the organization collaborates closely with health professionals and teen groups to produce up-to-date, research-based curriculum. The Women’s Fund serves more than 12,000 girls annually.

Service to Veterans Award (Individual): Brandy Baxter (Dallas-Fort Worth)

Air Force veteran Brandy Baxter has collaborated with nearly every veterans organization in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to increase awareness about the unique needs of women veterans. She uses her professional experience in personal finance to host webinars and workshops for women veterans who may need assistance in managing their household income, and she has been a voice for women veterans as a frequent speaker on panels, podcasts, and advocacy and training events. Through her work with At Ease Texas, a non-profit for women veterans, by women veterans, Brandy was instrumental in bringing the Women Veteran Network program to Dallas and has created many networking opportunities for women veterans who want to connect with each other.

Service to Veterans Award (Organization): Carry The Load (Northeast Texas)

What started in 2011 as an event with the mission to restore the true meaning of Memorial Day, has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that provides active ways to connect Americans to the sacrifices made by our military, veterans, first responders and their families. As Carry The Load celebrates its 10-year anniversary in 2021, its awareness program, which began as a 20-hour walk in Dallas, has grown into a national movement featuring a national relay which travels through 45 states, 70+ city rallies throughout the month of May and culminates in Dallas over Memorial Day weekend. Volunteers participate year-round by cleaning headstones at the National Cemeteries, attending Patriot Day and Veterans Day events, and helping educate the next generation through the Carry The Flag education program.

Higher Education Community Impact Award: Rebuild Texas Carpentry Skills Training Program at Del Mar College Continuing Education (Coastal Bend)

Three years after enduring the devastation of Hurricane Harvey, Del Mar College remains invested in the long-term recovery of Texas with its innovative Rebuild Texas Carpentry Skills Training Program, which launched the summer of 2019. This unique 10-week program was created to address the Coastal Bend region’s immense housing loss and growing unemployment numbers with a practical and versatile solution rooted in community service. The coursework combines traditional classroom instruction with hands-on experience in construction and carpentry: participants engage in a service learning project using the essential skills they learn to build a tiny home that is donated to a local school or church.

Corporate Community Impact Award: Texas Mutual (Central Texas & Statewide) On a mission to build a stronger, safer Texas, Texas Mutual has a culture of service spurred by team members who are dedicated to making our state a better place to live and work. In 2019, 473 Texas Mutual employees volunteered an impressive 5,300 hours for 103 nonprofit organizations across the state. The depth of Texas Mutual’s engagement can be seen in their longstanding partnership with the Central Texas Food Bank. In addition to providing nearly 550 hours of volunteer support to the organization, they also used their business expertise to revamp pantry distribution logistics and operations to better serve families in need.

Community Leadership Award (Individual): Blake Jennings (College Station)

Pastor Blake Jennings noticed a need in 2015 when multiple single mothers in his College Station congregation came to him with vehicle problems. Blake and his wife Julie created a nonprofit called OnRamp that provides reliable transportation to people in need, setting them on the path to self-sufficiency and enabling them to better care for their families. OnRamp’s impact has been substantial, donating 51 vehicles to date, and repairing approximately 30 more. OnRamp actively engages volunteers in both vehicle repair and client care and partners with more than two dozen local businesses and charitable organizations.

Community Leadership Award (Organization): Crime Stoppers of Houston (Houston)

Crime Stoppers of Houston is leading Texas and the U.S. with innovative crime prevention programming to keep our communities safe. Established in the early 1980’s as solely a Tip Line Program, Crime Stoppers remains committed to its mission to solve and prevent all crimes and now offers a robust public safety program that is reaching millions each year through its Safe School Institute, Safe Community Program, and victim services and advocacy programs. In 2019, Crime Stoppers reached more than 5.2 million community members, educated over 1.2 million students, and provided crisis services and support to nearly 250 victims and survivors. Through the power of volunteers, they also led the State to pass three legislative bills to enhance victim’s rights and public safety and reached over 850 victims through peer support, legal advocacy, parole board hearings, support group meetings, and annual events.

Community Leadership Award (Network): AmeriCorps Central Texas (Central Texas)

AmeriCorps Central Texas (formerly ServeAustin Collaborative) is a collaboration of nine organizations that offer a wide range of opportunities to create a better future for everyone in Central Texas through paid AmeriCorps service. Together, the organizations engage 500+ AmeriCorps members annually in providing direct services to youth and adults living in low-income communities across the region.  Because completing a service year can be a life-changing experience that builds skills, expands networks, and creates pathways to higher education and employment, ACT is working to build a more local, more diverse service corps whose members will shape their own futures while strengthening their local community.

National Service “Make a Difference” Award: Samantha Mariel Sandoval Hernández (Manor)

Samantha Mariel Sandoval Hernández has served as an advisor to Manor New Technology High School juniors and seniors for the past two years as an AmeriCorps member with College Forward, which pairs recent college graduates with students to empower them to achieve their post-secondary goals. During the 2019 school year, she served a caseload of 16 seniors and 17 juniors in the College Forward program. All 16 seniors completed the FAFSA or TASFA compared to a national average of 60%. In addition to managing her required caseload, Coach Sam provided individualized support and guidance to many additional New Tech students—100% of graduating seniors and 75% of juniors—introducing them to the college application process and discussing post-secondary plans.

Jaclyn Kolar

Jaclyn Kolar of Austin Receives National Leadership Award from America’s Service Commissions

09/25/2020 |

WASHINGTON, DC – Jaclyn Kolar of Austin was announced as the 2020 Outstanding Commission Staff Member of the year last night at a virtual awards ceremony held by America’s Service Commissions (ASC) at the association’s annual Innovation and Leadership Awards.

The awards program is held each year to recognize the leadership and accomplishments of state service commissions and their commissioners, staff, service programs, and legislative champions from across the United States and its territories. This marked the first year the event was celebrated virtually due to COVID-19.

Kolar is Director of National Service for OneStar Foundation, the Texas state service commission. She oversees the state’s AmeriCorps Texas grant portfolio and a statewide AmeriCorps VISTA Intermediary Project. Jaclyn first came to OneStar as a Program Officer in 2015, before being promoted to Manager and now Director. Prior to joining OneStar, Jaclyn spent five years working at the Travis County 4-H CAPITAL AmeriCorps program in Austin. She is a two-time AmeriCorps Alum, serving first as a VISTA in Vermont and then a VISTA Leader in Texas.

Kolar is known as a strong advocate for Texas AmeriCorps programs. She has also been sought out as a thought partner for the local ServeAustin AmeriCorps recruitment collaborative, helping the consortium better leverage private foundation dollars with federal grant funds, to boost AmeriCorps member benefits and incentivize recruitment and retention.

The advent of COVID-19 has put incredible pressure on the national service and nonprofit sectors. In response, Kolar created an immediate COVID-19 Planning Grant process that enabled existing AmeriCorps programs to adapt and receive additional risk management support for COVID-19 safety protocols to continue or even expand their services. It took her only five days to develop and publish the COVID-19 AmeriCorps Planning Grant opportunity in March, only two weeks after most shelter-in-place orders had begun. Under Kolar’s leadership, OneStar was able to quickly fund 15 emergency COVID grant applications totaling more than $920,000 in just two weeks.

Kolar was honored along with the following awardees:

2020 ASC Innovation & Leadership Award Recipients:

  • Friend of America’s Service Commissions: Senator Chris Coons (Delaware)
  • Friend of America’s Service Commissions: Senator Roger Wicker (Mississippi)
  • Friend of America’s Service Commissions: Congressman Dave Loebsack (Iowa)
  • State Service Leadership Award: State Senator Tony Vargas (Nebraska)
  • State Service Leadership Award: State Representative Matt Wilhelm (New Hampshire)
  • State Service Leadership Award: Mayor Michael Tubbs (California)
  • Outstanding Commissioner: Paul Calistro (Delaware)
  • Outstanding Commission Executive Director: Renee Bade (Idaho)
  • Outstanding Commission Staff: Jaclyn Kolar (Texas)
  • Outstanding Commission Staff: Sarah Sadowski (Montana)
  • Outstanding Service Program: United Way of King County (Washington)
  • Outstanding Service Program Staff: Gail Klearman (Iowa)
  • Honor Roll: Stacy Higa (Hawaii)
  • Honor Roll: Bill Hulterstrom (Utah)

“It’s an honor to recognize Jaclyn Kolar for her innovation and dedication to strengthening service and volunteering in Texas, especially at this critical juncture in our nation’s history,” said Kaira Esgate, CEO of America’s Service Commissions. “We are grateful for her tireless work to meet the moment through service, in spite of a global pandemic and greater challenges than we ever could have imagined a year ago.”

 

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America’s Service Commissions (ASC) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan association representing and promoting the 52 state service commissions across the United States and territories with the mission to lead and elevate the state service network. State service commissions are governor-appointed public agencies or nonprofit organizations made up of more than 1,200 commissioners, private citizens leading the nation’s service movement and administering nearly 80 percent of the federal AmeriCorps funds to address pressing community needs. Learn more at  statecommissions.org.

OneStar Foundation equips Texas communities to meet their needs by convening partners across sectors to build the capacity of nonprofits, promoting service and volunteerism, and investing in effective solutions. As a supporting nonprofit of the Office of the Governor, OneStar serves as the state’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives and the State Service Commission, administering a portfolio of approximately $17.8 million in federal grant funds for AmeriCorps Texas programs. OneStar is recognized as a statewide voice for the nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies, and the business community.

 

New Report Shows Impact of COVID-19 on Nonprofits in Texas

08/17/2020 |

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AUSTIN, TEXAS — On National Nonprofit Day, a new report from United Ways of Texas (UWT) and OneStar Foundation (OneStar) highlights the impact that COVID-19 has had on the Texas nonprofit sector. United Ways of Texas and the OneStar Foundation have previously partnered to raise awareness of the vital role that nonprofits play in the Texas economy, specifically highlighting that 1 in 8 Texas jobs (private) are in or tied directly to nonprofits, making the nonprofit sector in Texas a significant employer in the state. Texas nonprofits have stepped up without hesitation to support Texans impacted by COVID-19, including foodbanks, childcare providers, and workforce support organizations. While nonprofits are eager to support Texans in need throughout the pandemic, the report points to the fact that nonprofit organizations themselves have been severely affected during this time.

UWT, a statewide membership organization dedicated to supporting the work of local United Ways in Texas and OneStar, a neutral convener and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies, and the business community, has released Impact of COVID-19 on Texas Nonprofit Organizations, which includes the results of surveys of Texas nonprofits done across the state, highlights key themes regarding the impact of COVID-19 Texas nonprofits, and offers opportunities to strengthen the nonprofit sector—a key economic driver in our state.

Key Highlights in the Report:

  • The majority of Texas nonprofits are providing direct support to those most impacted by the pandemic and are stepping up to do more. Over 70% of nonprofits that responded to a statewide survey have changed their operations or services so that they can more directly support the COVID-19 response.
  • Nonprofits throughout the state have been severely affected by the pandemic; even those not directly responding to COVID-19 (e.g. arts and cultural organizations) are facing financial difficulties. 70% of survey respondents said that their budgets had been impacted or will likely be impacted by COVID-19’s strain on the economy. Additionally, 82% of nonprofits have canceled or plan to cancel revenue-generating programs or events, which will affect their financial prospects.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic is crippling the sector’s ability to sustain an important workforce and provide critical services that all Texans depend on. Over 24% of respondents have reduced employee hours or instituted furloughs or lay-offs, and 19% have instituted a hiring freeze.
  • The pandemic and resulting financial strain are impacting the ability of the Texas nonprofit sector to serve their communities on a day-to-day basis. Specifically, nearly 69% have experienced a disruption of services to clients, and 62% have experienced an increase in demand for services from clients and communities.
  • Texas nonprofit organizations and the communities they serve need flexible financial resources right now.

In addition to survey results, the report provides ways that policymakers, philanthropy, and business leaders can ensure Texas nonprofits have the capacity, resources, and flexibility to best serve their communities now and well beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Whether on the frontline serving meals, supporting new models for learning, or helping people receive health care and access to social services, our communities depend on nonprofits to respond to the needs of Texans during this pandemic,” said Chris Bugbee, President and CEO of the OneStar Foundation. “While nonprofits are facing significant increases in demand, they are also experiencing decreases in donations and other revenue. It’s vital to the recovery of Texas that we work together to keep the sector strong.”

Ensuring the health, stability, and connectivity of Texas’s nonprofit sector—especially during this challenging time—will serve to further anchor Texas communities, strengthen the health and productivity of Texans, and drive our state’s economy.

“Throughout this pandemic, nonprofits across our state have risen to the challenge of supporting Texans in need by being nimble and innovative to tackle the complex issues that our communities are facing, ” said Adrianna Cuellar Rojas, President and CEO of United Ways of Texas. “We hope that policymakers, business leaders, and other public officials will explore opportunities to support our Texas nonprofit sector so that they can continue to meet the challenging situations that this pandemic has created.”

All Texans can play a role in ensuring nonprofits have the capacity, voices, and resources needed to continue their pivotal work throughout the state. With the impact of the pandemic expected to increase as the crisis and fallout unfolds, nonprofits need—now more than ever—additional support and resources from the state, local governments, business, and philanthropy to continue serving communities in the months ahead.

To ensure our nonprofit sector can continue its important role for our state:

  1. Nonprofits, funders, businesses, and governments must work together to mitigate negative short and long-term impacts to the sector and communities overall.
  2. Advocacy is more important than ever.

Find the report online on the Built for Texas website: txnonprofits.org/covidimpact

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 United Ways of Texas (UWT) works collaboratively toward a future where all Texans thrive by building nonprofit organizational capacity and enhancing the impact of local nonprofits including United Ways across the state. With a long history of supporting the charitable sector, UWT aims to build a unified voice for all nonprofits in Texas by supporting, protecting, and promoting the nonprofit sector. For more information, visit uwtexas.org.

OneStar Foundation was created to support the State of Texas by strengthening the nonprofit sector, encouraging civic engagement through service and volunteering, promoting innovative strategies to address local issues, and facilitating public-private partnerships to expand the reach of the sector. As the Texas State Service Commission, OneStar administers a portfolio of $18.7 million in federal grant funds for AmeriCorps Texas programs. OneStar also has been designated by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to raise and distribute funds to eligible organizations working on the ground to support the economic recovery of Texas communities impacted by COVID-19. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

Texas COVID Relief Fund

OneStar Foundation deploys $920,000 in Texas COVID Relief Fund grants to support organizations vital to the recovery of Texas communities

07/31/2020 |

AUSTIN, TEXAS — As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact Texas communities, OneStar Foundation deploys $920,000 from the Texas COVID Relief Fund to 16 organizations working to directly support the most vulnerable and underserved across the state. In partnership with Governor Greg Abbott, the Fund was established to provide critical funding to address urgent gaps in available community resources in the areas of health, education, and community development. Priority consideration was given to nonprofits and agencies that provide services statewide or across multi-county jurisdictions and serve areas with limited access to local philanthropic relief funding.

“We received more than 400 proposals totaling over $32 million dollars in funding requested to provide critical services to Texans. Hundreds of our nonprofit partners are struggling to meet increased needs of our communities. Chances are, a nonprofit you know and advocate for is facing unprecedented challenges right now,” said Chris Bugbee, President & CEO of OneStar Foundation. “These grants will ensure vital organizations remain operational and can continue to provide the core services our local communities depend on.”

The following organizations are receiving grant investments:

  • Meals on Wheels Texas – $125,000
  • Texas CASA – $100,000
  • 2-1-1 Texas Information and Referral Network (Texas Health and Human Services Commission) – $75,000
  • Boys & Girls Clubs in Texas – $60,000
  • Latinitas – $60,000
  • Sharing Hands A Respite Experience – $60,000
  • Buckner Children and Family Services – $50,000
  • Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Laredo – $50,000
  • Combined Arms – $50,000
  • Lone Star Association of Charitable Clinics – $50,000
  • Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Antonio – $50,000
  • Shelter Agencies for Families in East Texas – $50,000
  • The Salvation Army – $50,000
  • Refugee Services of Texas – $40,000
  • Hand to Hold  – $25,000
  • Southeast Texas Food Bank – $25,000

Learn more about the important work of these organizations on the Texas COVID Relief Fund webpage at onestarfoundation.org/txcovidfund. The Fund continues to accept donations and encourages interested companies and individuals to contribute as fund partners.

“We are deeply grateful to Governor Greg Abbott for launching this much-needed recovery effort, and we appreciate the incredible outpouring of support from our fellow Texans, including our partners at DentaQuest, The Pfizer Foundation, Ferrovial, and Reliant Energy,” said Mr. Bugbee. “OneStar encourages you to play an important role in the recovery of your community, and our Texas, by supporting your local organizations.”

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OneStar Foundation was created to support the State of Texas by strengthening the nonprofit sector, encouraging civic engagement through service and volunteering, promoting innovative strategies to address local issues, and facilitating public-private partnerships to expand the reach of the sector. As the Texas State Service Commission, OneStar administers a portfolio of $18.7 million in federal grant funds for AmeriCorps Texas programs. OneStar also has been designated by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to raise and distribute funds to eligible organizations working on the ground to support the economic recovery of Texas communities impacted by COVID-19. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

Nominations Now Open For The 2020 Governor’s Volunteer Awards

02/25/2020 |

Contact: (512) 287-2035 or gva@onestarfoundation.org   

AUSTIN – Nominations are now open for the 37th Annual Governor's Volunteer Awards. The Governor's Volunteer Awards are administered by the OneStar Foundation and are an opportunity for the state of Texas to honor those who have made a significant and measurable difference in their communities through exemplary service and volunteering.

Nominations are open in nine categories:

  • Governor’s Lone Star Achievement Award
  • First Lady’s Rising Star Award
  • Partners in Education Award
  • Service to Veterans Award
  • Higher Education Community Impact Award – University     
  • Higher Education Community Impact Award – Community College
  • Corporate Community Impact Award
  • Community Leadership Award
  • National Service “Make a Difference” Award

To nominate an individual or organization for the award, visit:
http://onestarfoundation.org/gva-nomination-form

To see the descriptions and criteria for each award, visit:
http://onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards

Nominations will close on Thursday, May 14, 2020. 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.

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OneStar Foundation equips Texas communities to meet their needs by convening partners across sectors to build the capacity of nonprofits, promoting service and volunteerism, and investing in effective solutions. As a supporting nonprofit of the Office of the Governor, OneStar serves as the state’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives and the State Service Commission, administering a portfolio of approximately $17.8 million in federal grant funds for AmeriCorps Texas programs. OneStar is recognized as a statewide voice for the nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies, and the business community.

First Lady Cecilia Abbott Announces 2018 Governor’s Volunteer Awards Recipients

10/15/2019 |

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

First Lady Cecilia Abbott Announces 2018 Governor’s Volunteer Awards Recipients

AUSTIN – Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Honorary Chair of the 35th annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards, today announced the 2018 award recipients. The Governor’s Volunteer Awards, administered by OneStar Foundation, honor the contributions of individuals, businesses and organizations in Texas that have made a positive impact in their communities or across the state through service and volunteering. Through her Texanthropy Initiative, Mrs. Abbott has made promoting volunteerism and service to others her primary focus as First Lady of Texas.

“There is nothing more powerful than Texans helping Texans,” Mrs. Abbott said. “Whether it is through everyday volunteering and giving, or by responding to the most disastrous storm in our state’s history, Texans can always be depended on to answer the call to help their neighbors. This year’s Governor’s Volunteer Award winners are an inspiration to us all.”

In addition to the standard Governor’s Volunteer Award categories, this year three new categories were added to honor Texas women who have been instrumental in furthering the three key priority areas of the Governor’s Commission for Women, which are advancing economic opportunities for Texas women, addressing the scourge of human and sex trafficking, and engaging Texas businesswomen in Hurricane Harvey rebuilding efforts. 

Awardees will be honored in the Fall at an evening reception at the Texas Governor’s Mansion.  The recipients of the 2018 Governor’s Volunteer Awards are:

Governor’s Lone Star Achievement Award – John Poston

John Poston’s passion to serve the special needs community began with the birth of his twins in 1995, one of which was born with Down syndrome. Out of John’s amazing commitment and relentless pursuit of opportunities and happiness for his children came The Rise School of Dallas, The TouchDown Club of Dallas, The Stallings Award, and Daymark Living. Through his many years of service, John has helped provide for the needs of hundreds of children and adults with intellectual disabilities in Texas and beyond. 

First Lady’s Rising Star Award — ZeeShawn Wani

17-year-old ZeeShawn Wani is an outstanding student at Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professionals in Houston, but what makes him even more exceptional is his heart for service. In 2015 he co-founded Student for Cause to help economically disadvantaged students by providing necessary uniforms, school supplies, and supporting their participation in extracurricular activities.  After Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, Student for Cause raised additional funds to provide for students in need. 

Partners In Education Award – Fidelity Investments

Through its employee volunteer program, Fidelity Cares, Fidelity Investments has been a powerful partner to school districts and nonprofit organizations in the DFW area. Whether it is teaching financial literacy in schools, partnering with local nonprofits to solve technology challenges, or mentoring youth through career and STEM initiatives at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County, Fidelity Investments is making a real difference in the communities it serves.

Service to Veterans Award — MISSION UNITED

United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County’s MISSION UNITED Information and Referral program is a veteran peer-to-peer support model that was formed to help the military and veteran community achieve and maintain self-sufficiency. In collaboration with the Department of Family and Protective Services and 76 Bexar County agencies, MISSION UNITED navigators can identify a multitude of direct and wrap-around services, enabling city and state, for-profit and nonprofit, military and civilian agencies to put resources where they are most needed.

Higher Education Community Impact Award — The University of Texas at El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) embraces community engagement that calls for equitable, purposeful and reciprocal partnerships with community, where resources and knowledge are shared to advance the public good. Last academic year, UTEP integrated community engagement into 386 courses campus-wide, engaging more than 150 faculty members and nearly 8,000 students in academic-based service. This resulted in over 1.5 million hours of community engagement with 200 community partnerships. 

Corporate Community Impact Award — TeamCITGO

TeamCITGO has a 30 year history of volunteerism and support in the communities it calls home, including Corpus Christi and Houston. After Hurricane Harvey made landfall, TeamCITGO mobilized teams to clean up communities and gather and distribute donations. Organizations that benefit from TeamCITGO’s investment of time and resources include Habitat for Humanity, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the American Heart Association. TeamCITGO is a stellar example of how a corporation can truly make a difference beyond the bottom line.

Community Leadership Award — Individual — Marissa Vogel

When Marissa Vogel’s children were 4 and 6 years old, she searched for opportunities to get them involved in giving back. Unable to find opportunities that engaged children in meaningful service, in 2009 Marissa founded Little Helping Hands to engage youth of all ages in service. Now known as Generation SERVE, in the last nine years Marissa’s vision has helped over 34,000 youth and their families get involved in volunteering, contributing 78,500 volunteer hours to over 100 nonprofit organizations in Central Texas.

Community Leadership Award — Organization — Rust Street Ministries

In 1995, several San Angelo teens from Johnson Street Church of Christ traveled to Atlanta to serve the homeless and forgotten.  When they returned home, they realized that there was great need in their own community. Thus began Rust Street Ministries, a community outreach ministry providing basic needs and life skills for those in San Angelo and surrounding areas. Through the generous support of many community partners and 23 area churches, all of Rust Street Ministries’ services are provided at no cost. 

Community Leadership Award — Innovation — Katy Bourgeois 

Katy Bourgeois was on the original team that designed and launched The Travis County Collaborative for Children, and she continues to provide strategic guidance, coordination and support for over 35 organizations that make up the Collaborative. This trauma-informed community of support is focused on three primary goals: a healing, local family for every child in need, two or fewer placements for every child, and a positive, permanent placement within two years or less

National Service Make A Difference Award — AmeriCorps — David Porter, IV

David Porter’s service with Breakthrough Central Texas – a nonprofit that aims to assist students from low-income communities who will be the first in their families to graduate from college – has resulted in the development of a partnership that will continue to serve Breakthrough students long after David’s AmeriCorps term of service ends. David partnered with Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin, which hosted a mini camp for Breakthrough’s first-generation rising high school juniors.

National Service Make A Difference Award — VISTA — Sara Lamog

Sara Lamog was instrumental in making Tom Green County the second county in Texas to be certified as an ACT Work Ready Community.  Sara has served with the Work Ready Project for the City of San Angelo Development Corporation, a program designed to decrease unemployment and create a more prepared workforce. Under her leadership, the Work Ready team secured commitments from over 122 local employers to support and utilize the ACT Work ready skill assessments.

National Service Make A Difference Award —Senior Corps — Linda and Ron Aten

Linda and Ron Aten began volunteering in the Senior Corps RSVP program in Abilene in 2001 and have since accumulated over 11,000 hours of volunteer service. Together they have served through 36 different agencies; however, it is the AARP Tax Aide Program where their major volunteer service is focused. Ron has been a tax counselor since 2006 and Linda has served as the District Coordinator since 2011. In 2017, the Abilene District prepared over 1,500 tax returns at no cost and gave back to community residents over $460,000 in earned income credit and $223,584 in tax refunds.  

The Governor’s Commission For Women Human Trafficking Prevention Award – Toni McKinley

As a survivor of child trafficking, Toni McKinley incorporates her personal experiences into her knowledge as a licensed professional therapist to educate first responders and assist victims of trafficking through a trauma-informed, evidence based approach. Toni is active with many organizations and agencies that work to stop trafficking and rehabilitate girls who have been victimized, including The Refuge, Shared Hope International, Crowns of Hope, and Survivor Sisters Leadership Program.

The Governor’s Commission For Women Disaster Relief Assistance Award – Marie Flickinger

As the co-founder and publisher of the South Belt-Ellington Leader, Marie Flickinger ensured that her community received timely updates and knew where to find resources in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. Marie worked with the Pasadena Independent School District and other community supporters to set up a temporary shelter at Dobie High School, which fed and housed 1,500 displaced Texans. Marie also coordinated supplies from the American Red Cross and helped manage more than 150 volunteers at the temporary shelter.

The Governor’s Commission For Women Texas Women Economic Empowerment Award – Roslyn Dawson Thompson

Roslyn Dawson Thompson is a lifelong philanthropist and advocate for the empowerment of women and girls. As the president and CEO of the Dallas Women’s Foundation, Roslyn developed and executed a strategic plan that emphasized supporting female-led households to help them achieve economic security. Roslyn is also the chair of the board of the Women’s Funding Network and serves on the executive committee of Prosperity Together, an initiative of 27 public women’s foundations that have committed over $100 million to advance women’s economic security in the U.S. over the next five years.

To view the official press release on the Office of the Governor website please click here.

To learn more about the Governor's Volunteer Awards, please visit the OneStar website.

To view photos from the 34th Annual GVA Award Ceremony, please visit OneStar Foundation's Flickr album.

Mary Grace Landrum of Houston Receives National Leadership Award from America’s Service Commissions

09/20/2019 |

WASHINGTON, DC – Mary Grace Landrum of Houston, a governor-appointed Commissioner who serves on the OneStar National Service Commission, was announced as the 2019 Outstanding Commissioner of the year last night at a reception held in the Washington, DC area. The award was presented to Landrum by America’s Service Commissions (ASC) at the association’s annual Innovation and Leadership Awards event as one of nine national awardees.

The awards program is held each year to recognize the leadership and accomplishments of state service commissions and their commissioners, staff, service programs, and legislative champions from across the United States and its territories.

Mary Grace Landrum was first appointed as a OneStar National Service Commissioner in 2011 and has since been re-appointed by two Governors. The Commission is part of OneStar Foundation, the governor’s designated agency for overseeing federal AmeriCorps grants for the state of Texas along with other philanthropic and nonprofit efforts.

 

Mary Grace Landrum Award Photo 09 20 2019

“Mary Grace Landrum truly exemplifies the Texan spirit of serving others and is the model of what it means to be a thoughtful and dedicated leader,” said Elizabeth Darling, President/CEO of OneStar Foundation, who works closely with Landrum and other OneStar Commissioners. “There is no one more deserving of this award, and we are thrilled to see her passion and commitment to national and community service recognized at this level.”

For the past seven years, Landrum has chaired OneStar’s Program Advisory Committee, the first line approving body for AmeriCorps grants in the state of Texas. She is also a corporate consultant, former adjunct professor at the University of Houston, and a graduate of Leadership Houston. In addition to her OneStar service, Landrum served on the boards of One Voice Texas and the Spring Branch Education Foundation and was the executive director and facilitator for the West Houston Leadership Institute. Landrum has dedicated eight years of her time to advocate for AmeriCorps and Senior Corps programs, and consistently attends Texas AmeriCorps events, swearing in ceremonies, and program site visits. Landrum also helped spearhead the City of Houston’s annual National Service Recognition Day celebration each April to thank national service volunteers for giving back to Texas communities. Mary Grace is also an active participate in the States for Service Public Policy Coalition to advocate for service and volunteerism at the local level.

2019 ASC Innovation & Leadership Award Recipients:

Friend of America’s Service Commissions: Congressman Tom Cole (Oklahoma)
Friend of America’s Service Commissions: Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (Connecticut)
State Service Leadership Award: Governor Larry Hogan (Maryland)
ASC Honor Roll: Robert Shogren (Arizona)
Outstanding Commissioner: Mary Grace Landrum (Texas)
Outstanding Commission Executive Director: LaDawn Stoddard (Utah)
Outstanding Commission Staff: Stacey Scherschligt (Minnesota)
Outstanding Service Program: Metropolitan Ministries (Florida)
Outstanding Service Program Staff: Bridget Talebi (Washington)

“We’re thrilled to recognize Mary Grace Landrum as Outstanding Commissioner,” said Kaira Esgate, CEO of America’s Service Commissions. “Her eight years of leadership with OneStar have benefitted not only Texas, but set an example nationwide for the greater AmeriCorps and state service commission network for what an outstanding Commissioner can accomplish.”

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OneStar Foundation was created to support the State of Texas by strengthening the nonprofit sector, encouraging civic engagement through service and volunteering, promoting innovative strategies to address local issues, and facilitating public-private partnerships to expand the reach of the sector. OneStar Foundation is the Governor-designated National Service Commission in Texas and administers the AmeriCorps State grant program. OneStar is also home to Texas’ Faith-Based and Community Initiative. OneStar Foundation connects partners and resources to build a stronger nonprofit sector in Texas. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

 

Elizabeth Darling Confirmed by U.S. Senate as Commissioner of the Administration of Children, Youth and Families

09/11/2019 |

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AUSTIN, TX – Elizabeth Darling, President & CEO of OneStar Foundation, was confirmed yesterday by the United States Senate to be the Commissioner of the Administration for Children, Youth and Families (ACYF) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services based in Washington, D.C. In this role, Ms. Darling will oversee the $18 billion portfolio of programming related to child abuse and neglect prevention, foster care, youth development, adoption, runaway and homeless youth, teen pregnancy prevention, and family violence prevention.
 
Ms. Darling was nominated to the role by President Donald J. Trump in March 2018 and was re-nominated in January 2019. Following her confirmation by the Senate, Ms. Darling will leave OneStar and begin her new role at ACYF upon her formal commission by the President and subsequent swearing-in.  
 
The President & CEO of OneStar Foundation is a position appointed by the Governor of Texas, and announcements regarding new leadership will be forthcoming. To ensure a smooth transition, Chris Bugbee, OneStar’s Chief Operating Officer, will serve as acting President & CEO upon Ms. Darling’s departure.

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OneStar Foundation was created to support the State of Texas by strengthening the nonprofit sector, encouraging civic engagement through service and volunteering, promoting innovative strategies to address local issues, and facilitating public-private partnerships to expand the reach of the sector. OneStar Foundation is the Governor-designated National Service Commission in Texas and administers the AmeriCorps State grant program. OneStar is also home to Texas’ Faith-Based and Community Initiative. OneStar Foundation connects partners and resources to build a stronger nonprofit sector in Texas. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

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