United Way of South Texas Board of Directors proudly welcomed more than 200 community leaders, partners, and supporters to the 2026 Awards Ceremony held at the Mission Event Center on April 1. This year’s ceremony held special significance, as United Way celebrated its 45th anniversary, honoring decades of advancing Youth Opportunities, Financial Security, Healthy Communities and Community Resiliency for families throughout South Texas.
A key moment of the event was the recognition of the 20th anniversary of the South Texas Heroes, a longstanding recognition program that honors individuals who exemplify service, compassion, and leadership. Annette Garcia, UW Community Relations Co-Chair, announced the 2025 South Texas Hero, honoring the late Larry Gonzalez of PlainsCapital Bank. In a heartfelt tribute, his family accepted the award on his behalf, and his son shared moving remarks reflecting on his father’s achievements, leadership, and lasting impact on the community. His influence was remembered with deep gratitude and respect.
“When we come together with a shared vision, real change happens,” Gerardo Paz, UW Past Board Chairman, said. “By supporting education, health, financial stability and essential services, we continue building a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community for everyone. A thriving United Way in Hidalgo and Starr Counties is made possible by the thousands of community supporters.”
In addition, the awards ceremony recognized several categories that highlight the strength of community partnerships and the generosity that drives United Way’s mission forward. United Way proudly honored its Top 10 Supporting Companies, whose continued investment and collaboration are vital to expanding access to critical resources in Hidalgo and Starr Counties. Local school districts were also recognized for their outstanding commitment to giving back and for fostering a culture of service and philanthropy among students, staff, and families.
The ceremony also recognized organizations through the Spirit Awards for per capita donations of $250 or more, and the Century Club Awards for those exceeding $100, highlighting a strong and sustained commitment to supporting the community and advancing United Way’s impact.
United Way of South Texas is committed to creating lasting change by connecting individuals and families to essential services and mobilizing resources to address our community’s greatest needs. Through the power of partnerships and collective impact, we are building a stronger, more resilient South Texas for all. If you are interested in joining our campaign or learning more about how you can make a difference, please visit www.unitedwayofsotx.org.
About United Way:
United Way of South Texas invests in programs that address critical community needs in the areas of Healthy Communities, Youth Opportunities, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency. Through partnerships with more than 21 local nonprofit agencies, United Way supports services that reach at least 180,500 residents across the region. Services provided through United Way of South Texas partner agencies include emergency shelter, family violence counseling, character-building programs, and infant stimulation classes. Community members who wish to support United Way programs may do so through a tax-deductible monetary donation by mailing a check to United Way of South Texas, P.O. Box 187, McAllen, TX 78505-0187.