VolunteerNow’s 18th Annual Hearts of Texas Luncheon was packed individuals committed to making a difference in their communities. Highlighted by the 2025 Lifetime Achievement award honoree, Roland Parrish.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as Mr. Parrish shared how he wishes his grandfather Will, could reappear and share a Big Mac with him. Describing the role his grandfather’s entrepreneurial spirit played in shaping his own life, in business and in service to others. Influential leaders leave a path for those who follow to build on, called Legacy. The Legacy of service runs deep within Parrish, hence creating the Parrish Charitable Foundation. Along with Legacy and philanthropy, he is passionate about helping children. Instilling in them the importance of higher education. Wanting them to seize and capitalize on all opportunities presented. Where the opportunities are few, he wants to create more for them.
In addition to honoring Mr. Parrish, Plano ISD and For Oak Cliff were celebrated as well.
‘For Oak Cliff’ a, culturally relevant non-profit, received the Ruth Collins Sharp Altshuler Award for excellence in volunteerism. Their bakers dozen team serves the 55,000 Dallas residents in the 75216 superblock in Oak Cliff, Texas. In most nonprofits, half of volunteer shifts, (sometimes as many as 2 in 3) go unfilled. If you ask ‘For Oak Cliff’ how many of their shifts go unfilled, they will tell you ZERO! Not one goes unfilled. Stewarding over 1,200 volunteers a year is truly remarkable!
Plano ISD received the Tammy Richards Impact Award for their use of VOLY.org.
Lasting change doesn’t happen all at once. It is the work of many lifetimes working together.
Many thanks to LeadershipNow CEO Rachel Currie Triska, and Board Chair Tracy Steiner. Along with Chief Development Officer, Jamila Thomas and Director of Corporate Engagement, Nicole Young. As well as All volunteers who are selfless in sharing their service to others.
