The United Way Board of Directors announced Gerardo Paz, CEO of South Texas Federal Credit Union and 2024 United Way Board Chairman, as the 2024 South Texas Hero. He was congratulated by over 130 guests at the 2025 Volunteer & Company Awards Ceremony held on February 28.
The South Texas Hero Award is a distinguished recognition that is presented to an individual who demonstrates unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership in the community, through dedicated engagement in year-round service projects. “Receiving the South Texas Hero award from United Way is a tremendous honor,” Paz expressed. “This recognition is a reflection of the teamwork, dedication, and shared commitment to making a difference in Hidalgo and Starr Counties. I am grateful to be part of a team that works tirelessly to create positive change.” The South Texas Hero award was established in 2008 in honor of Ray Alexander, retired General Manager of KRGV TV 5. He was instrumental in leading and strengthening collaborations between United Way of South Texas and other nonprofits. He also worked with United Way of South Texas to launch the Rio Grande Valley’s “211” Information and Referral program, now known as the Community Council of the RGV.
Mr. Gerardo Paz has proudly served as the CEO of South Texas FCU for the past eight years, where he and his team work with families to ensure financial security and prosperity. His relentless drive to support others is not just a professional obligation, it is a heartfelt mission that inspires those around him and fosters a culture of compassion. Paz served in several leadership roles, during his six years of service with United Way, including Chairman of the Board and Campaign Co-Chair, for three years. While Co-Chairing the United Way Campaign, he visited with Loaned Executives on a weekly basis, to help staff motivate and inspire the team responsible for supporting Campaign initiatives. He has made a meaningful contribution to the success of United Way’s programs, services, and accountability efforts. His involvement has positively impacted the organization’s mission and the communities we serve.
Former South Texas Hero recipients include the following: Blanca I. Villalobos, IBC Bank; Tyler Stone, Rioco Partners; John Herrera, Magic Valley Electric Co-op (retired); Dr. Marla Guerra, South Texas ISD (retired); Adrian Villarreal, IBC Bank; Lee Jones, AEP Texas (retired); Steve Ahlenius, McAllen Chamber of Commerce; Joe Vera, III, City of McAllen; Commissioner “Eddie” Cantu, Precinct 2; and H-E-B.
About United Way:
United Way of South Texas invests in programs that address critical services in the areas of Healthy Communities, Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, and Community Resilience. The organization supports 21 non-profit agencies in Hidalgo and Starr Counties that serve a minimum of 180,000 local residents annually. Services provided by United Way of South Texas through Partner Agencies include emergency shelter, family violence counseling, character-building programs, child victim advocacy, and infant stimulation classes. To learn more, visit www.unitedwayofsotx.org. If you would like to support United Way programs with a monetary donation, you may mail a tax-deductible check to United Way of South Texas at P.O. Box 187, McAllen, TX 78505-0187 or pledge online at https://unitedwayofsotx.org/donate-now/. For volunteer opportunities, visit volunteersotx.org.