Houston is home to a thriving network of nonprofits that have spent decades addressing the city’s most pressing needs. From supporting children’s education and family well-being to providing health services and community resources, these organizations have built programs that strengthen neighborhoods and create opportunities. Their volunteers, leaders, and supporters collaborate across initiatives, demonstrating the power of collective action to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Houstonians every day.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® Dream Home Campaign
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
This year, Houston was selected as the largest market for their Dream Home campaign.
“Our goal is to raise $1.5 million with this campaign,” says Rebecca Levine, senior advisor. “All of the money raised will go to funding the mission of St. Jude to ensure families never receive a bill from St. Jude,” explains Levine. “Each cancer treatment costs $450,000 per year, and children usually have multiple years of treatment. The Dream Home fundraiser will provide treatment for one child's cancer battle.”
The 3,000-square-foot Dream Home, located in Northwest Houston, is built by Empire Homes at no cost. Tradespeople and suppliers have generously donated labor and materials for everything from the concrete to the flooring, ensuring that all proceeds will go towards childhood cancer treatment.
To purchase a $100 ticket, visit dreamhome.org or call (800) 303-4413. Only 15,000 tickets will be sold. The winner will have the option to move into the home, use it as an investment property, or sell the 4-bedroom house. The newly built home, along with other high-end prizes, will be given away live on FOX 26 Houston on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. dreamhome.org
Families to Freedom
Families to Freedom is a nonprofit that helps victims of domestic violence reach safety by removing a critical barrier: transportation. The organization offers free rides to shelters or family members, along with fuel cards, bus tickets, and other means to ensure no one is left without options.
“I discovered how many victims and their children were turned away from domestic violence shelters due to a lack of capacity,” says Sarah Nejdl, Founder & CEO. “Once I became aware of the issue and could envision a simple solution to give a ride, I just had to make the idea become a reality.”
In the past year, the Houston office transported 580 victims and 544 children on 700 trips. Most of these rides took clients to crisis centers that could accept them when local shelters could not. Families to Freedom also assists survivors relocating to relatives or moving between programs as they wait for housing.
Gratitude is important to the mission of Families to Freedom. “We get words of gratitude from our survivors all the time,” Nejdl says. Looking ahead, she hopes to expand services across Texas with support from both state funding and community donations so more victims can find their way to safety. familiestofreedom.org
Hatching for Health
Hatching for Health: The Jessica Hatch Show on CW39 gives families facing medical challenges a platform to share their stories. The program was created by Jessica Hatch, founder and host, who says her work in healthcare revealed the need for advocacy and education.
“Growing up, my heart was always in a place of wanting to give back to the Houston community. Now, as an adult working in the healthcare field, I've seen firsthand the medical challenges faced by many families and individuals. This experience sparked a deep passion in me to advocate and educate for those who often go unheard,” says Hatch.
Through the show, families recount their personal experiences, particularly the early days of receiving a diagnosis. Hatch recalls filming with Savannah, a 17-year-old battling osteosarcoma. “Even through all the ups and downs, their smiles and positive attitudes shine through. Their faith is truly inspiring,” she says.
For Hatch, positivity is central. “Raising awareness about rare diseases can be tough, but it’s a cause I’m truly passionate about. I stay positive knowing that I’m making a difference, no matter how small,” she says.
Gratitude, Hatch adds, also plays a role. “Maintaining a positive mindset can significantly help anyone navigate through tough times.” hatchingforhealth.org
Junior League of Houston
The Junior League of Houston is celebrating its Centennial Anniversary, reflecting on a century of service, community programs, and volunteer leadership. Founded in 1925, the organization has connected people through meals, recipes, and shared initiatives that continue to shape Houston today.
“The Junior League of Houston's Luncheon Club, and later the Tea Room, have served as a space for hospitality, purpose and community,” says Katherine Doyle, President of the Junior League of Houston. “The meals shared within the Tea Room, from The Pantry, and through the League’s cookbook recipes have connected the community for a century.”
Funds raised through the Tea Room supported the League’s first community initiative, the Junior League Health Center, which provided prenatal and pediatric services for families. Today, proceeds continue to sustain programs focused on children’s education, health, and family needs.
“We are here today thanks to our first president, Adelaide Lovett Baker, who was a visionary leader and a founding member of the Junior League of Houston,” Doyle says. Looking ahead, she notes, “When Junior League members come together, anything is possible. Our shared history and impact will continue to inspire future Junior League members and Houstonians.” jlh.org