Most successful fundraiser in Family Services' 100-year history

Family Services of Greater Houston kicked off its centennial year with the 100th Anniversary Gala: Changing Times, Changing Families. The sold-out event honored President George H.W. Bush and Mrs. Barbara Bush and their family and celebrated Family Services’ 100 years of service to Houston-area children and families. Hues of deep purple and bright red filled the ballroom at the InterContinental Houston on February 20th, where more than 600 guests gathered to commemorate our anniversary.

More than $550,000 was raised, making this gala the most successful fundraiser in Family Services’ 100-year history. Holthouse Foundation for Kids was the presenting sponsor of the gala with a $50,000 donation. Lynda & William Transier served as Gala Chairs and past honorees Kathy & Jeff Love and Margaret & Ben Love served as Honorary Chairs. The Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening was Linda Lorelle, who was a past luncheon honoree along with her husband Lou Gregory.

“We are thrilled to have so many people in the community who care about children and families support Family Services,” said Nyla Woods, Family Services’ President and CEO.

President Bush spoke to the guests about the importance of strong family relationships and saluted Family Services for 100 years of dedication and perseverance helping to strengthen Houston-area children and families.
“I’m looking around and I see enough caring and commitment to lift and change the lives of thousands of families in trouble – by being here to honor and support the proud and the vibrant history of what Family Services of Greater Houston represents,” President Bush said.

At the end of the evening, the Bushes were presented with an exquisite needlepoint heart in Family Services’ colors of purple and red.

Honorees from Family Services’ past luncheons, including Joseph & Cathy Garcia-Prats, Maureen & Jim Hackett, Harry & Cora Sue Mach, Dr. Rod Paige and Chuck & Kim Watson, were also recognized as well as former Executive Directors Ed Christman and Lloyd Sidwell.

The gala featured a Raffle of a Century with prizes ranging from trips to Europe to tickets to Houston sporting events, an exhibit Family Services’ history, a delightful dinner including a dessert Family Services’ logo printed on white chocolate. Duck Soup provided entertainment for the evening.

Guests in attendance included Tom & Clair Amonett, Jim & Molly Crownover, Michael & Ellie Francisco, Tony & Mary Gracely, Sten Gustafson & Sofia Adrogué, Mike & Lisa Holthouse, Jim & Miriam Mulva and Steve & Leticia Trauber.

Other top sponsors include Underwriter, ConocoPhillips, Founders, Devon Energy Corporation, Gracely Footprints Foundation, Gene Graham, Dr. and Mrs. John P. McGovern, Anna Lee and Andy Waite; Benefactors, British Airways, The Friends of Anna Lee and Andy Waite.