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Christmas Review 2009 Gala Kids Programs

Spring 2010

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Executive Director | Laura Ward

These are exciting times at Houston Children’s Charity. Faced with the possibility of reduced contributions over the next year, we have decided to turn these challenging economic times into new opportunities for our children. Many families who have never had to request assistance from HCC or any other organization now find themselves in a position of need. Because of this increasing client base, we will not be creating new programs this year, but rather expanding those that currently exist.

These times are exciting because they force each of us to dig deep into our own pool of resources to help our community’s underserved children.

This expansion can only be accomplished with support from our donors and volunteers. Recently, an unprecedented donation of 1,000 beds for our “A Better Night’s Sleep” program was made by Amir Mireskandari, CEO, Miresco Investments, Mr. Rodney Finger and Mr. Rick Huttner. This will pave the way and open the doors for the best year ever for this outstanding program. To think that 1,000 children will be in a bed over the next few months because someone reached deep is exciting indeed.

Two of HCC’s newest supporters, Melissa and Brad Juneau, have adopted our “HCC Closet” and made our shopping days more exciting than they have ever been. At the helm of this generous endeavor, Melissa and her team have raised the bar for our clients. Shopping has never been so much fun or more pleasant an experience than Melissa has made it. “Think Boutique” when you reach deep to donate your gently used items of clothing and remember, these items are given to our clients at absolutely no cost to them. This feature sets HCC apart from other thrift stores in the community.

With a deep desire to assist HCC, Suzanne Klein, J.B. Bartholomei, George Geary, and Mickey Meyer-Sturgis generously donated the funds for the purchase of 3 Chariots For Children’s vans this past year. The funds were donated in honor of their dear friend and our outgoing President, Edna Meyer-Nelson. This enabled HCC to provide for 3 additional agencies that would have otherwise not received one. This is yet another example of our outstanding supporters and their desire to assist us during challenging times.

It is always exciting and at the very least fulfilling to build on current resources and be able to touch so many additional lives. HCC will continue to provide at-risk children and their families facing economic hardship an opportunity to improve and impact their own future. With your continued support this will be our most exciting year ever. Thank each of you for reaching deep at a time when it is most needed.

2009 Gala Christmas Review Kid’s Programs

After 3 celebrated years, Houston Children’s Charity’s president bids the position adieu. At the 2009 Annual HCC Board Meeting, Laura Ward thanked Edna Meyer- Nelson for her outstanding service as President. Laura said, “Edna brings in over

$100,000 a year by speaking with friends, family and colleagues who make donations on her behalf.” Laura presented Edna with a beautiful engraved crystal gavel.As the gavel was passed, Laura welcomed the new President, John B. Johnson and thanked him for his 2 year commitment to Houston Children’s Charity and stated that everyone was anticipating his great leadership. John thanked Edna for her outstanding leadership and Gary D. Becker for his past years of presidency and stated that he looked forward to good things to come.

Thank you, Madame President Edna Meyer-Nelson

Tilman J. Fertitta presented the Chairman’s Award to a well de-serving Jeffrey T. Majewski for his diligent work and leadership on the “Sleep Team.” Tilman said, “Jeff has taken ownership and put in many hours on “A Better Night’s Sleep” program. His pension for organization and growth has helped to nurture and expand this program.”

2009 Presentation of Chairman’s Award

Houston Children’s Charity treated 100 of Houston’s special children to a day of fun and basketball on Saturday, February 6th. The children watched as the Rice Owls tried to hold their own against the University of Alabama-Birmingham Blazers. The Blazers ended the exciting game by defeating the Owls 76-65.We owe a huge thank you to Rice University, Jones College

Associates of Rice, St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, and Leslie Hinshaw for raising the money to purchase the basketball tickets, and coordinating the fun for HCC’s kids.

Takin’ it to the Hoop

Dear Friends,

We are “hoppy” to announce that Houston Children’s Charity’s 12th Annual Easter celebration is set for Saturday, March, 27th from 1-4pm at Northland Christian School. Over 350 children from Houston area agencies will be treated to a day filled with excessive fun, just like the Easter Baskets they will receive.

This afternoon of excitement will include face painting, a giant slide, a train ride, an obstacle course, a petting zoo and pony rides, a moon walk, a sea of balls, lots of food, and as always a special visit from the Easter Bunny, himself.

Houston Children’s Charity is greatly indebted to Steve Lemm from Northland Christian School for his incessant hard work and bigheartedness. Without Steve and Northland Christian School, this event would not be the success that it is.

“Everybunny” get ready for Easter!“Everybunny” get ready for Easter!

Our Kids are Everybody’s Kids ®

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The warm spring air was buzzing with the scent of fame during the Celebrity Dinner at the home of Paige and Tilman Fertitta last May. With approximately 100 guests in attendance, it was truly a night of familiar faces and celebrity appearances. Nolan Ryan, a long-time friend of Houston Children’s Charity, came “sliding” into Houston just for this special evening. Along with Ryan, celebrity guests at the party included Bob Allen, Jeff Bagwell, Elvin Bethea, Bobby Boswell, Kris Brown, Ray Childress, Brian Ching, Larry Dierker, Doug Drabek, Clyde Drexler, Cynthia Cooper-Dyke, Elvin Hayes, Commander Mark Kelly, Commander Scott Kelly, The Lopez Family,

John Lucas, Oliver Luck, Giff Nielsen, Dan Pastorini, Chester Pitts, Rick Smith, Spencer Tilman, Steve Tyrell, Charlie Ward, and Dave Ward. The highlight of the evening came when Tilman presented each of the celebrities with a gift from the charity and provided personal comments.

Join us for this year’s Celebrity Dinner on Friday, April 30th as we once again salute the best and brightest! As always, the event

will be held at the home of Paige and Tilman Fertitta, and is already sizing up to be an unforgettable evening.

Only 100 tickets will be sold to this extraordinary event. If you would like to purchase tickets or get more information, please call our office at 713-524-2878.

Wallis Marsh, David Huntington & Roy Marsh

Steve Tyrell, Laura & Dave Ward

Paige & Tilman Fertitta,Ruth & Nolan RyanJean, Diana, Mark & Steven Lopez

Andrew & Karen McKemie, Felix Rhymes & Jami Clevenger

Gary Becker, Allen Becker & Doug Drabek

Tiffany & Rick Smith, Ericka Bagwell, Laura Ward & Jeff Bagwell

Melissa & Brad JuneauChester PittsBrian Ching & Bobby Boswell

THIS IS ONE EVENING YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS!

Dinner with the Stars...Under the Stars

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T. J. Ford, Tony Gracely, Spencer George, Dan Jewett, Jill Gracely & Liz Spier

John Gorman & Ryleigh GormanLaura Ward, Tony Gracely & T. J. FordRyleigh Gorman & T. J. Ford

Wallis Marsh, T.J. Ford, Dave Ward & Dee Dee Marsh

T. J. Ford & Adam GracelyLaura Ward & Glen Davis

1st Annual T.J. Ford1st Annual T.J. FordCelebrity Bowl-a-ThonCelebrity Bowl-a-ThonBenefitting Houston Children’s CharityBenefitting Houston Children’s Charity

SStrikestrikes forfor aa C Causeause

T. J. Ford had a thought…..that thought turned into action, which everyone agrees,

sounds just like T.J. (former University of Texas basketball great, currently playing for the Indiana Pacers).

July 11, 2009 at 300 Houston Bowling Center, T.J. called on his athletic buddies to help him raise some money. He knew his friends would come out to bowl for a good cause. Adam Gracely, one of his longtime pals and current financial adviser, offered his assistance. He knew just who to call….Laura Ward at Houston Children’s Charity. Adam knew she could shape up this event (in her sleep, if need be) with her 21 years of experience. Laura made invitations, sent out letters, and hit the phones to ultimately sell 36 lanes of 4 players each to the tune of $1,000 per lane! Add to that, several generous donations and 2 Bowling Pins from the live auction, autographed by all attending athletes, and you get an event grand total of over $50,000. Both, Wallis Marsh and Ryleigh Gorman were the high bidders of the coveted Bowling Pins.

Celebrities joining the festivities included: Joseph Addai, LaMarcus Aldridge, D.J. Augustin, Rick Barnes, Jonathan Bender, Craig Biggio, Travis Daniels, Glen Davis, Kevin Durant, Nathaniel Harrington, Royal Ivey, Chester Pitts, James Posey, Shaun Rogers, Bobby Simmons, Maurice (Mo) Taylor, and

Tyrus Thomas.

After several hours of fun, food and cheers, the high score winning team was one of the Gracely Teams (Jill Gracely, Liz Spier, Dan Jewett, Spencer George and their celeb Rick Barnes)! The high score individual player was none other than Tony Gracely, himself. We just bet they will be back to defend their Titles! Other supporters, coming in close, were Edna Meyer-Nelson, Dave Ward, Garrick Hatfield, Tony Miketinac, Grant Guthrie, Michael

Hoctor, John Johnson, David Easley, Shane Cupid, John Havens, and J. Todd Noel.A huge debt of gratitude goes to T.J. Ford, Adam Gracely, the Gracely Family, Adidas, all of the supporters of this event and, of course, the Celebrities! Funds from this event made it possible for the Chariots for Children program to purchase two vans! Including our 2009 recipients, Houston Children’s Charity has awarded a total of 83 vans and 3 box trucks to over 64 agencies and individual families over the past 13 years. Stay tuned for the date of the 2nd Annual T.J. Ford Celebrity Bowl-a-Thon!!! You won’t want to miss it!

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From the first song belted out by Blue Eyed Soul Sensation Michael McDonald, to the Motown finale concluding the Grammy-winner’s 70-minute set, all three dance floors at the Houston Children’s Charity’s 13th Annual Gala were full, proving once again that HCC supporters make this annual fundraiser Houston’s party of the year.

Although the festive atmosphere roared strong throughout the evening, honorees Carol and Michael Linn of Linn Energy reminded the crowd that in these very difficult economic times, the less fortunate of Houston needed their support more than ever. Through their relentless pleas from the podium and personal appeals to friends, the Linn’s alone were responsible for raising over $60,000 for the “A Better Night’s Sleep” Program – that is 600 beds for children who would otherwise sleep on the floor. Thank you to Meredith and Cornelia Long who donated $10,000 in honor of their dear friends, Carol and Mike Linn.

Monsignor Frank Rossi delivered a beautiful convocation, as he’s done in years past, again so generous with his time and blessings for Houston Children’s Charity.

The evening’s décor was minimalist blue, in keeping with the Blue Eyed Soul Sensation theme. After over a decade of ‘over-the-top’ ballroom transformations, HCC Executive Director Laura Ward chose tasteful simplicity. “With this challenging economy, we knew this year would be tougher than ever to make our numbers, so we chose to keep our expenses down and have all the money go to where it’s needed most, to the kids we support.” Neither challenging economic times nor busy social calendars could diminish the enthusiasm of the HCC supporters who raised nearly $1,000,000 for the evening.

As always, Steve Trent, General Manager of the Hyatt Regency Downtown went well beyond the call of duty and served what we have all come to expect, the best banquet food in the city. Thanks to Becca Cherry of Bouchaine Vineyards and Denise Ehrlich of Old Bridge Cellars, HCC supporters enjoyed fine wines throughout the evening.

The Houston Children’s Charity’s 13th Annual Gala owes a very large part of its success to BMW Momentum Southwest and West, the title sponsors, who donated a Limited Edition 2009 BMW Z4. The proceeds from this item greatly contributed to the evening’s bottom line. However, the generosity of BMW Momentum Southwest and West does not stop there. We are happy to announce that they have agreed to donate a car for 2010’s Gala as well.

Dr. Steve Hamilton, Sherri Zucker & Melissa Juneau

Edna Meyer-Nelson, Karen McKemie & Monty Meave Sue & Lester Smith, Shelby Hodge

Ericka & Jeff Bagwell Jesse & Cathy Marion & Maia

Vikki VinesDon & Maggie HendersonMadeleine Crawford &

Michelle KerchoIlleana & Michael Trevino

& Donna Vallone

“Taking it to the Streets” or should we say, the dance floor...

High bidders for the evening were Dee Dee and Wallis Marshwho purchased a trip to Althorp, the ancestral Estate of Princess Diana’s family, for $22,500, and the BMW Z4 for $55,000; Melissa and Brad Juneau, who purchased a trip to the Golden Nugget for $30,000 and a “Country Good Time” for $10,000; David Rockecharlie will be busy this year traveling with the Sparkle for the Stars package for $24,000; and Sue and Lester Smith raised their hands for the Grammy guitar at $12,500. Luxury Board high bidders were Susan and Gary Becker who purchased the Collector’s Wine Cellar for $8,500.

In the crowd were Bobbi Kirlin, Joel Oppenheim, Monty Meave, John Pham, Karen McKemie, Ericka & Jeff Bagwell, Franco Valobra, Sheridan & John Eddie Williams, Shelby Hodge & Shafik Rifaat, Margaret Alkek Williams & Jim Daniel, Suzanne Klein, Karen & Kevin Maley, Ilene Allen & Stan Whitfill, Christina & Jerry Gronauer, Jr.

1. For the Wine Enthusiast - $9,500 - Perri & Daniel D’Armond2. Open Season for the Trophy Hunter - $6,000 - Edna Meyer-Nelson & Bill Whitehead3. Asia by the Sea - $11,000 - Joel Oppenheimer4. High Fashion Fur - $7,000 - Carol & Michael Linn5. Fit for a “Princess” - $22,500 - Dee Dee & Wallis Marsh6. Fit for a Queen - $17,500 - Karen & Kevin Maley

7. Sparkle with the Stars - $24,000 - Paige & David Rockecharlie8. Grammy Guitar - $12,500 - Sue & Lester Smith9. Country Good Time - $10,000 - Melissa & Brad Juneau10. Over the Top in Cabo - $12,000 - R. Bruce Buckley11. Role the Dice - $30,000 - Melissa & Brad Juneau12. The Premier Grand Finale - $55,000 - Dee Dee & Wallis Marsh

L IVE AUCTION PURCHASERS

13th Annual Gala

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Susan Becker, Michael McDonald & Gary Becker

Tilman Ferti tt a, Commander Mark Kelley & Monsignor Frank Rossi

Ricky Stoma, Jeff Bagwell & Lisa StomaSteve Dujka, David Davis & John Johnson

Monty Meave, Dee Dee & Wallis Marsh & Karen McKemie

Paige Ferti tt a, Laura Ward,Tilman Ferti tt a & Tad Brown

Monty Meave, John Pham, Wallis & Dee Dee Marsh

Marti Young, Gayla Murphy & Kevin Young

Karen & Andrew McKemie Liz & Allen Maggenheim Ken & Mimi Fisher Edna Meyer-Nelson & Mickey Meyer-Sturgis

Michelle & Jeff Majewski Becca Cherry & Dan Rumsey

Jackie & Dr. Hank BlumBobbi Kirlin

& Joel Oppenheim Melinda &

Dr. Norman BerkmanStacey & Robert Swift

Richard Dole & Linda Feranto

Pamela & Jack Wright

Frannelle Rogers & Grant Guthrie

Wendy Carabali & Staff Sergeant Andrew Dunn

Robert “Robby” Thomas Hendrix & Tracy Hendrix

Laura Ward, Edna Meyer-Nelson & Suzanne Klein

Margaret Alkek Williams & Jim Daniel

Dan & Perri D’Armond

1. Collector’s Wine Cellar - $8,500 - Susan & Gary Becker2. Celebrity Dinner - $4000 - Debra & Kevin Fogarty3. Classy Classic Cars - $3,000 - Edna Meyer-Nelson4. How Suite It Is - $2,500 - Monty Meave5. All Aboard - $1,150 - Monty Meave6. Dine Amongst the Legends - $1,300 - Monty Meave

7. The Look of Luxury - $2,000 - Samuel Sheff8. Barbie 50 & Fabulous - $1000 - Dee Dee & Wallis Marsh9. Ready for Winter - $3,600 - Courtney & Bo Hopson10. Destination Dynamo - $1,050 - Sherri Zucker 11. Dazzle Them, Darling - $2,500 - Richard Dole12. Pretty in Pink - $2,300 - Ronald Lyle

13. Golf with the Rocket - $2,600 - Michael Hoctor14. Country Concert Getaway - $800 - R. D. Morgan15. Batter Up - $ 1,000 - Deanna Barton16. Ready for Football - $3,500 - Mark Toon17. See you in San Miguel - $1,000 - M. Shellist18. Hawaiian Adventure - $1,800 - Robbie Segler

LUXURY BOARD AUCTION PURCHASERS

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The stars continue to align for Houston Children’s Charity. This year’s Underwriter Party for the 13th Annual Gala, themed for its Blue Eyed Soul Sensation entertainer, Michael McDonald, was so appropriately hosted by Tilman and Paige Fertitta at the Grand Opening of BLUE – the luxurious new high energy patio bar at Brenner’s on the Bayou.

While Houston has its share of celebrities, the true stars are those that give their time, energy and resources to help Houstonians less fortunate. Houston’s brightest stars gathered out in the open air near the Bayou on a beautiful fall evening to mingle, celebrate, and recognize the achievements of this past year that make HCC’s gala a true success.

Houston Children’s Charity Executive Director, Laura Ward, welcomed guests and introduced Karen McKemie of Momentum BMW Southwest and West, who donated the New 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster Convertible Hardtop valued at $65,000 – one of two cars showcased that night for guests to ogle.

Edna Meyer-Nelson, President of Houston Children’s Charity and President at Richland Investments, Inc., was introduced and distributed Underwriter Awards to: Becker Family Foundation, Susan and Gary Becker – HCC Immediate Past President/ Edna Meyer-Nelson, HCC President/ Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., Paige and Tilman Fertitta, President and CEO/ Momentum BMW Southwest and West, Karen McKemie/ Sheila and Walter Umphrey/ Sheridan and John Eddie Williams , Managing Partner at Williams Kherkher Hart Boundas, LLP./ The Smith Foundation , Sue and Lester Smith.

Edna thanked everyone and introduced Gala Honorees, Carol and Michael Linn:

“Our Honorees are two of Houston’s most d i s t ingu i shed citizens, Carol and Michael Linn. We are privileged to pay tribute to Carol and

Michael for their unwavering commitment and contributions to the Houston community.” Carol and Michael Linn of Linn Energy received their Benefactor Award with brief remarks, and then distributed Benefactor Awards to: Hyatt Regency Houston, General Manager Steve Trent and Penny & Paul B. Loyd, Jr., HCC Board Member.

Sponsor Awards ($15,000) were distributed to: Leslie Alexander & The Houston Rockets/ BMC Software, Daniel D’Armond/ Bud Light / Silver Eagle Distributors, L.P. , John Johnson, Sr. Vice President of Sales & Marketing/ Momentum BMW Southwest and West, Karen McKemie/ Jeanette and Jim Woods/ The Smith Foundation, Sue and Lester Smith/ Valero Refinery Houston and Brent Hankins.

Executive Director of Houston Children’s Charity, Laura Ward, made closing remarks and thanked Paige and Tilman for hosting the Underwriter Party. Special thanks – framed photos of the kids – were given to: Steve Trent, Felix Rhymes, Brittany Zucker, Sherry Zucker, Samuel & Omana Abraham and their daughter Annie, Jackie & Hank Blum, Judith Ann Bufkin, Kaylin Harr, Linda de Sosa, Debbie & Rudy Festari, Tracy Hendrix, Bobbi Kirlin, Carol Sawyer, Donna & John Speer, Franco Valobra and Anna Williams-Parker.

*Special thanks to all of the Houston Children’s Charity Board Members for their auction donations.*

The high energy and relaxing outdoor atmosphere of BLUE provided such a fun and captivating setting, partygoers found it hard to leave and continued to visit and mingle. Thanks to Stephanie Baird of BevCo International who donated wine for the evening, HCC supporters enjoyed fabulous wine and hors d’ouevres. The chef and staff of BLUE really outdid themselves with the food and service, creating on and off the menu delicacies that were exceptionally delicious.

Dr. Tom & Carol Sawyer

Linda de Sosa with Woodlake Travel

Judith Ann Bufkin, Erica Courtney & Liz Decker

Gary & Susan Becker, Louis & Christine Messina

Edna Meyer-Nelson, Don & Vicki Clark

Carol & Michael Linn & Karen McKemie

Laura Ward & Tilman Fertitta

Jimmy & Mary Helen Davenport

Tami Ernst & Donna Spear

Debbie & Bob Ogle

13th Annual Gala Underwriter Party,Under the Stars, Amongst the Stars of Houston

Thank you BLUE. We cannot wait to go back!

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All across the country non-profits are feeling the effects of the economic downturn, and are struggling to find the funds to support their programs. Houston Children’s Charity knows how important sponsors and partnerships are to the growth and development of a charity, especially during these troubled times. That is why Executive Director, Laura Ward and Houston Children’s Charity Board of Directors set out to give a special thanks to our big-hearted and generous partners, and they did just that on January 27, 2010. Our friends at Silver Eagle Distributors hosted a Thank You Celebration in their beautiful Silver Eagle hospitality room for the men and women that help HCC make a difference in the lives of Houston’s special children. It was an affair to remember with scrumptious Texas bar-b-que by the Goode Co and special guests, Houston’s very own Brian Ching of the Houston Dynamo and Eric Winstonof The Houston Texans. HCC President and Host for the Evening, John Johnson said it best during his touching speech, “Houston Children’s Charity is an amazing organization, but we are nothing without our partners, and tonight we say thank you.”

Houston Children’s Charity would like to once again say thank you to the men and women that were recognized at the celebration. Many thanks to Staff Sergeant Dunn, Sergeant Major Petersen, 1st Sergeant Stephens, Corporal Castillo, and all the Toys for Tots Marines that helped HCC provide over 50,000 toys to children throughout the Houston community this Christmas. Also, thank you to Assistant Chief Vicki King and the Houston Police Department for donating their time and support to help us make all of our events successful. A big pat on the back to Momentum BMW Southwest and West, especially, Karen McKemie, Monty Meave, John Pham, and Mack Albukari for being our Gala Title Sponsor for 3 years in a row and once again showing their support at our Gala in October 2010. Every year they donate a beautiful BMW sports car to help us raise money to support our wonderful programs. We also would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Patricia and Pat Harrison of Warehouse Associates, along with David Devaney, for supporting our many programs by providing both assistance and warehouse space.

A Million Thanks

Patricia & Pat HarrisonStaff Sergeant Andrew Dunn& John Johnson

Staff Sergeant Andrew Dunn& Laura Ward

Mack Albukari, John Pham,Monty Meave & John Johnson

Don Henderson, Greg Brown & Grant Guthrie

Houston Children’s Charity’s newest program, “The HCC Children’s Closet”, opened in August 2009. The purpose of the closet is to provide gently used clothing free of charge to families and agencies. Clothes are available for babies, young children, teens and adults. Individual families and those connected with an agency register and make appointments to visit the closet where HCC volunteers and staff are on hand to help them choose items that are appropriate for each family member. One unique feature sets HCC’s closet apart from all others –there is absolutely no charge to the families for these items. Melissa Juneau has agreed to chair this program and has made

great strides in the management of this project, bringing in her own volunteers and working tirelessly to organize and tidy the items so the ‘shopping’ process is streamlined and the closet is a pleasant place to visit. In a year when families that have never had to ask for assistance are finding themselves unable to make ends meet, we are happy to be able to offer this service. Now that you know what’s in “The Houston Children’s Charity’s Closet”, we ask you…“what’s in your closet?” Currently, we are especially in need of children’s and infant clothes.

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Melissa JuneauTo make a donation or for more

information, please call us at (713) 524-2878 or visit our website at:

www.houstonchildrenscharity.org

CHRISTMAS

As all of our Christmas programs continue to grow, Christmas is a crazy-busy time of year for Houston Children’s Charity. For the second year in a row, the 1st Battalion 23d Marines, 4th Marine Division chose HCC as the recipient of toys donated through the Houston area Toys for Tots program. This donation alone has dramatically changed the landscape of our Christmas programs. Instead of spending our time acquiring enough toys through donations and bulk purchases to give Christmas presents to as many children as possible, HCC now focuses staff and volunteers to store, organize, and distribute over 70,000 toys!

Yes, after receiving 50,000 toys in 2008 through the Marines’ Toys for Tots program, in 2009 Houston

Children’s Charity received 70,000 toys. The impact the Marines’ donation has made on

our Christmas programs is nothing short of extraordinary. In 2007, before the Marines’

involvement, 940 children received toys for Christmas through the HCC toy distribution. In 2009, 15,877 children

received toys through the 2009 HCC toy distribution! Houston Children’s Charity and the children and agencies who received

Christmas gifts give thanks for the programs facilitated by Toys for Tots; the 1st Battalion

23d Marines, 4th Marine Division are our very own Christmas Miracle.

Although we are eternally grateful to the Marines for choosing Houston Children’s Charity as the recipient of this donation, accepting this gift and therefore providing Christmas to almost 15,000 more children

would not be possible if it were not for Patricia and Pat Harrison

of Warehouse Associates and

David Devaney. The Houston C h i l d r e n ’ s Charity offices do not have room to house 100 toys, much less 70,000. Special thanks go to our very

generous friends at Warehouse A s s o c i a t e s , Patricia and Pat, who donated the warehouse space to store and distribute the toys.

David Devaney has made it all possible by handling the logistics and answering our every call, he is HCC’s Superman by always coming to the rescue.

And on December 13th, David Devaney changed from his Superman suit to his Santa suit at the Annual Children’s Christmas Party at the Hyatt Regency Houston. 574 children from 126 Houston area families were treated to toys, goodies, entertainment, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus – thank you David Devaney and Carole Lawson. For the second year in a row, children attended with their own families instead of an agency, and this has really added to the spirit of the event. It is truly Christmas for these kids when they get to receive toys and celebrate with their own families. The children and families enjoyed a hamburger and hotdog buffet and a “make your own” ice cream sundae bar, all provided by the Hyatt Regency Houston, as well as face painting, clowns, and a photo with their family. The Cookie Monster, puppy dog, lion, and Ninja Turtle also visited. We’d like to give special thanks to SeaWorld San Antonio for their live animals which provided Holiday entertainment, as well as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Clowns, the Houston Rocket Power Dancers who made an appearance, Roly the Elf courtesy of Best Entertainers, and a holiday performance by the children of Houston P.A.L.

A very special thank you is due to Marti and Kevin Young for organizing the Hyatt Christmas Party for the second year in a row. Marti and Kevin are unique in that instead of taking a project they had chaired before and taking shortcuts the second year to reduce their own hours spent, Marti and Kevin worked even harder to outdo last year’s successes and figure out how to make these kids smile even wider. Marti took her team of volunteers to the warehouse for an entire week to handpick toys from each child’s Christmas wish list and package them individually in a Christmas bag with their name on it – she did this for 574 children! Marti and Kevin, you are true Christmas Angels.

In a year when the economy dictated ‘downsizing’ for people from all economic brackets, Houstonians’ generosity continued to shine as we received more calls and queries than ever from people who wanted to truly feel the Christmas spirit of giving. These donors shopped for the Christmas wish lists of families who otherwise may not have Christmas at all. In 2009, 971 children’s Christmas wishes came true through the Adopt-a-Family program – that is up from 673 children in 2008.

We’d like to give a very special thank you to Staff Sergeant Andrew Dunn for his assistance in securing and organizing the Toys for Tots program, to David Devaney for not only providing warehouse assistance throughout the season but for also making an appearance as Santa during the Annual Christmas Party, to Patricia and Pat Harrisonof Warehouse Associates for providing the much-needed warehouse space for 70,000 toys, and again to Marti and Kevin Young for organizing the Hyatt Christmas Party. Thanks to Borden Milk, Pepsi, Minute Maid, Coca Cola, Hyatt Regency Houston, Sea World San Antonio, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Clowns, Houston Rockets Power Dancers, HP Cares, Roly the Elf courtesy of Best Entertainers, Silver Eagle and their green screen and a holiday performance by the children of Houston P.A.L. The 2009 holiday season would not have been as successful without your help and generosity – you are the true spirit of Christmas.

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2009 CHRISTMAS PARTY CHRISTMAS PARTY TOY DISTRIBUTIONTOY DISTRIBUTIONADOPT-A-FAMILYADOPT-A-FAMILY

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Clowns

Roly the Elf of Best EntertainersChristmas Party Chairperson Marti Young with special guests

A performance by Houston P.A.L.

HCC President John Johnson, his son Brian, and 2 guests of the party

Guests of the Christmas Party enjoying some coloring time

Officer Al Vallejo Jr. and members of Houston P.A.L.

Santa Claus holding a happy guest

SeaWorld Ambassador Clay Carabajal and boa constrictor

greeting a family

Board Member Bob Ogle with the Marines

Assistant Chief Vicki King, Lieutenant Mike Waterwall, Executive Assistant

Chief Martha Montalvo

Members of the 1st Battalion 23d Marines

Assistant Chief Vicki King with two Christmas Party guests

Festive face painting for a Christmas Party guest,

provided by volunteer Wesley Fly

Santa and Mrs. Claus A guest of the party giving a “high-five” to the puppy

Two happy Christmas Party guests with Houston Rockets

Cheerleaders

Christmas Party Chairperson Kevin Young, his daughter Caitlin, and some special party guests

A Ninja Turtle, Lion, and Cookie Monster with a special Christmas Party guest

SeaWorld Animal Ambassador Angie Llanas and owl with two

party guests

One happy party guest receiving his gifts from Santa

and Mrs. Claus

Board Member Bob Ogle with two Christmas Party guests

Mrs. Claus visiting with a family at the Christmas Party

Members of the Hyatt Regency Houston Catering Staff

Chairman of the Board, Tilman Fertitta, with the marines

Another happy camper

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Making a difference for Houston’s Special Children...Making a difference for Houston’s In need of a better nights sleepIn need of a better nights sleep

Thousands of children around the Houston community will go to sleep tonight on the floor because their family cannot afford to give them a bed of their own. Every day, Houston Children’s Charity receives letters that describe these sad sleeping conditions. Other letters describe children sleeping three or four to a bed, many of which are damaged and soiled. One mother writes, “My three children sleep with me in a small bed that a friend had in their garage.”

Scientific research has shown that there are significant links between a child’s sleeping habits and their performance in school. The following are just a few observations from various studies illustrating that a good night’s rest can significantly help a child developmentally:

• Children who nap longer during the day have longer attention spans.• Toddlers who sleep more are more sociable and less demanding• Children who are diagnosed with ADHD have dramatically improved peer relations and classroom performances once better sleep

routines have been established.• Children with higher IQs—in every age range—slept longer.Houston Children’s Charity strives to have a positive, transformational impact on our community. HCC’s newest program, “A Better Night’s

Sleep” helps us reach that goal by providing Houston’s special children a comfortable and safe place to sleep each night. Along with a bed, HCC provides the bed frame, sheets, blanket, pillow, and pillow case to each child in need.

Laura Ward, HCC Executive Director and program founder, always says that we cannot do it alone, and with the help of our very dedicated volunteers, especially; Jeff Majewski, HCC Board Member and Chair of the “Sleep Team”, and the rest of our Sleep Team members, Michelle Majewski, Carol Sawyer, and Ilene Allen, Houston Children’s Charity was able to host five successful distributions in 2009. These distributions could not have taken place without the support of our wonderful sponsors. We owe a big thank you to Patricia and Pat Harrison of Warehouse Associates, as well as David Devaney for providing both assistance and warehouse space for this special program. We could also not have done it without the incredible generosity of Amir Mireskandari, CEO of Miresco Investments, Rodney Finger, and Rick Hunter. This fall these big-hearted supporters donated 1,000 beds to the “A Better Night’s Sleep” Program. This amazing donation came at our greatest hour of need, and we could not be more grateful!

Since the program’s launch at the 11th Annual Gala, HCC has provided Houston’s most pre-cious children with over 2,000 beds. Our continued goal is to provide 100 beds per month to children in need. We cannot reach this goal without remarkable sponsors, like you. For only a $100, you can put a child who is in desperate need of “A Better Night’s Sleep” in a bed complete with bed frame, sheets, pillow, and blanket. Contact us at 713-524-2878 to make a donation or visit our website at www.houstonchildrenscharity.org.

Miles of HappinessMiles of Happiness. . .. . .Houston Children’s Charity is dedicated to enhancing the

lives of underprivileged, handicapped, and abused children in the Houston community. To help steer HCC’s goal in the right direction Executive Director, Laura Ward, and Houston Children’s Charity Board of Directors founded the Chariots for Children Van Program. Since it began in 1996, HCC has been providing specifically designed and equipped vehicles to agencies around Houston who, like ourselves, are on a mission to help Houston’s special children.

Houston’s non-profits that are devoted to helping children are often hindered by budget restraints, creating an endless need for assistance with transportation. With this program, HCC is committed to helping these charities fulfill this need, and with our help these charities are able to transport children to treatment, therapy, a fun day at the beach, or an educational trip to a museum.

In 2009, HCC awarded five 12-passenger vans to Have Haven, Bridge Over Troubled Waters, Inc, Bethel’s Place, Mission of Yahweh, and Brighter Visions Child Care Services. We also provided Aretha West-Mills with a specially equipped handicap van to help transport her six year old daughter who is battling Spina Bifida. We were not able to provide these agencies and this family with vans without the help of T.J. Ford, former University of Texas basketball player, and current Indiana Pacers superstar. The 1st Annual T.J. Ford Celebrity Bowl-A-Thon made it possible for us to purchase two vans. HCC also owes a huge thank you to Suzanne Klein, Mickey Meyer-Sturgis, George Geary, and J.B. Bartholomei for making a very generous donation to Chariots for Children in honor of their beloved friend and HCC President Edna Meyer-Nelson at the 13th Annual Gala. Their contribution of $60,000 covered the cost of three additional vans at the year’s end.

Since the Chariots for Children Van program began 13 years ago, Houston Children’s Charity has awarded 83 vans and 3 trucks to 64 agencies and 2 individual families, at a cost of $2,198,622. If you would like to make a donation to the Chariots for Children Van Program, and help HCC provide safe and reliable transportation to Houston’s special children please call our office at 713-524-2878 or visit our website at www.houstonchildrenscharity.org.

Bethel’s Place12-passenger van

The mission of Bethel’s place is to positively affect the lives of the people in our community by providing resources that are imperative to enhance their quality of life. They offer outreach programs and enrichment activities to the community because it is their desire to empower the members of the community to rise above their circumstances by offering various programs designed for the entire family.

The Bridge Over Troubled Waters12-passenger van

The mission of The Bridge is to offer support, provide safety, and prevent domestic and sexual violence. The Bridge provides access to critical services for those in crisis situations. Over its 31 year history, The Bridge has grown to become the 6th largest comprehensive crisis centers of its kind in Texas serving more than 20,000 people annually. In addition to being one of the largest crisis centers in Texas, The Bridge is also the only agency of its kind serving southeast Harris County-a population of approximately 526,000.

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Making a difference for Houston’s Special Children...Special Children...

Brighter Visions

Mission of Yahweh

Aretha West-Miles Family

Miles of Happiness. . .

Brighter Visions Child Care Services12-passenger van

By providing a continuum of wholesome family services and professional support, Brighter Visions Child Care Services creates social, mental and academic excellence in the lives of children. Brighter Visions recruits, orients, trains and supports foster families who develop their capacities to provide a nurturing and structured environment for children and youth, pending their return home, adoption or transition into independent living.

Have Haven12-passenger van

Have Haven, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that helps children who have been victims of abuse and/or neglect and are unable to live at home with their families. We provide them with a safe, nurturing place to live, where they can receive intensive, individualized counseling services, group therapy, medical care, and educational support.

Mission of Yahweh12-passenger van

Mission of Yahweh is a faith-based shelter that Empowers, Enriches and Restores the lives of homeless women and children and provides outreach services to low income communities. The Mission of Yahweh has empowered homeless and abused women and their children for over 47 years. The doors are always open for women in crisis. We are a truly unique refuge that not only gives food, clothing and shelter, but also is committed to rehabilitating women to become self-sufficient, productive members of society. At The Mission of Yahweh, we shelter, clothe, feed and support more than 1,600 residential stays each month. They also support thousands of Houston/Carverdale-area residents with donations of food, school supplies and other necessities.

British Petroleum Grad Immersion Team set out to raise money for Houston Children’s Charity in a very unique way. On October 8, 2009 they held a Charity Ball in our honor, and did everything themselves from cooking the dinner for the evening to decorating the tables. Two of the members, Ryan Rinnan and Marisa Haywood presented Executive Director, Laura Wardwith the money the team raised at the event. With matching gifts from British Petroleum the donation was over $26,000. We owe a huge thank you to BP for their big hearts! With so many non-profits appealing for assistance, we are especially grateful they chose to support Houston Children’s Charity.

British Petroleum Honors Houston Children’s Charity

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Aretha West-Miles FamilySpecially Equipped Handicap van

Aretha West-Miles is a handicapped mother of four. She has been diagnosed with scoliosis and COPD and is in need of a lung transplant. In addition to her handicap, Aretha has a six year old handicapped daughter who is battling Spina Bifida.

Houston Children’s Charity Board of Directors

Officers

Tilman J. Fertitta, Chairman of the BoardJohn B. Johnson, President

Edna Meyer-Nelson, Immediate Past PresidentGrant W. Guthrie, Vice President/Funding Co-Chair

Robert A. Marsh, Vice PresidentDonald J Henderson, Secretary

Gary D. Becker, TreasurerDon K. Clark, Funding Co-Chair

Thaddeus B. Brown

Executive DirectorLaura S. Ward

DirectorsGregory L. Brown

Daniel R. D’ArmondPaul B. Loyd, Jr.

Jeffrey T. MajewskiChristine R. Messina

Dr. Lois J. MooreMichael F. Rogers

Kevin J. Young

Advisory BoardJ. Downey Bridgwater

Pastor Kirbyjon H. CaldwellMichael C. LinnJohn L. Nau, IIIRobert E. Ogle

Dr. David G. PoplackDavid H. Ward

James D. Woods

Please contact the HCC Office

at 713.524.2878 or email us at

hcc@houstonchildrenscharity.org

with your name, address, phone

number and availability.

We appreciate your support!

For further information, visit our website atwww.houstonchildrenscharity.org

2010 Upcoming Events

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We are always in need of caring

volunteers for our Children’s events.

Children’s Easter Party – March 27th

Celebrity Evening – April 30th

2nd Annual T.J. Ford “Strikes for a Cause” - July

Back to School Program – August

HCC Closet – Monthly

“A Better Night’s Sleep” - Monthly

14th Annual Gala – October 23rd

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