Join us for our Thriving Families Luncheon on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Junior League of Houston.
Led by Co-Chairs Clarita Gonzalez and Casandra Riojas, this special gathering brings together community leaders, partners, and supporters who share a commitment to creating pathways to opportunity and building a vibrant future for East End children and families.
The luncheon will be emceed by Anayeli Ruiz, KHOU 11 News, and feature Ruth López Turley, Director of the Kinder Institute for Urban Research, who will share insights on the changing needs and opportunities shaping Houston’s East End.
We are proud to present the 2026 East End Legacy Award to the John P. McGovern Foundation in recognition of 15 years of extraordinary partnership and commitment to Houston’s East End.
Since helping establish the John P. McGovern M.D. Community Sports & Recreation Building in 2011, the Foundation’s annual support has helped more than 3,000 children participate in afterschool, STEAM, Camp Fresh, sports, and other youth programs that build confidence and prepare them for future success.
The East End Legacy Award honors individuals and organizations whose generosity, leadership, and long-term commitment expand opportunity and strengthen children, families, and the East End community.
Every day, children discover new opportunities through our youth programs while parents gain the skills and confidence to build a more stable future for their families. Last year, Community Family Centers provided 15,992 Family Support Services and 2,828 Education and Workforce Services, helping East End families move forward with confidence, opportunity, and hope.
Your sponsorship of the 2026 Thriving Families Luncheon helps make those moments possible by expanding access to youth programs, family support services, education, workforce development, and health services that help East End children and families build confidence, achieve greater stability, and prepare for future success.
Visionary Partner
John P. McGovern Foundation
Impact Innovator
Community Catalyst
Family Empowerment Partner
Longnecker Gallery
Nicole Longnecker and David Pesikoff
Children’s Champions
Carol &
Cliff Pearson
Beacon of Hope Benefactor
