Philanthropy Notes
Dallas kids serve as powerful reminders why Voice of Hope matters
What: Voice of Hope Annual Dinner
Where:Belo Mansion
The 411: The 2015 fundraising dinner for Voice of Hope was a night of personal touches by the kids most impacted by the organization. Miguel Lira, a sixth-grade student at Greiner Elementary School, played the violin at the opening reception, and the main room was filled with decorated thank you cards from Voice of Hope students. For the prayer, Voice of Hope singers who attend Sidney Lanier Elementary School sang “Ride On King Jesus.” Two students received awards for demonstrating excellence in leadership: Voice of Hope graduate Clifton Wilson received the Voice of Achievement Award, and the Voice of Promise Award went to sixth-grade Bowie Middle School student Elizabeth Jacobs.
It was also an informative and inspirational evening, thanks to a panel discussion, moderated by longtime supporter Ray Nixon, with three powerful voices in the community: Dr. R. Gerald Turner, president of SMU; the Rev. Bryan H. Dunagan, senior pastor of Highland Park Presbyterian Church; and former Navy SEAL Clint Bruce, co-founder of Trident Response Group, Thirty & 3 and Carry The Load.
All proceeds from this fundraising event help the organization fulfill its mission to educate and build strong character in children and to equip families with resources and skills needed to overcome and break the poverty cycle.
Who: Voice of Hope chairman Mike Doramus and executive director Edward Franklin, event chairs Mimi Vanderstraaten and Jane Gibson, honorary chairs Ellen and John McStay, and underwriters Lisa and Kenny Troutt and Lincoln Property Company. Attendees included Howard Armistead, Betsy and Richard Eiseman, Leah and Jerry Fullinwider, and Sarah Perot.