The 2024 Pillars of Strength Luncheon at The Revaire on May 2, 2024, raised more than $327,500

Board Chair Sergio Leal, welcomed guests who joined us to celebrate Family Houston’s 120 years of impact in the Greater Houston community. President and CEO, Ken Sheirr thanked Bill Worrell for serving as Emcee.

Chef, community member, and restaurateur Chris Shepherd was honored for his work in supporting food and beverage workers across the US through the Southern Smoke Foundation. Founded in 2015, Southern Smoke Foundation is powered by past and present food and beverage workers who provide a safety net of support to those in need. Restaurant workers, beverage workers, farmers, and their families lean on Southern Smoke for help covering basic necessary costs and receiving no-cost mental health counseling. Today, Southern Smoke has expanded their reach to help those across the nation in Texas, New York, Louisiana, California, and Illinois.

John Lucas II, legendary NBA player and coach, and mental health advocate, shared his journey and passion for mental health. In 1990, John founded John Lucas Enterprises, an extensive network that provides athletes with drug treatment programs while also encouraging them to reach their full potential. Having overcome his own battle with addiction, John celebrates 38 years of sobriety and inspires all struggling to overcome their issues and achieve greatness.

“120 years ago, a small group of committed Houstonians saw a great need in the city and took decisive action to form an organization that could help,” commented Sergio V. Leal in his remarks to guests. “Today, we gather to support the vital work that began all those years ago – the work that Family Houston does to help Houstonians help themselves. We gather to celebrate the strength and resilience of the families this organization serves.”

If you were unable to join us, but would still like to contribute, please use the following link to donate today: DONATE