City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More

Featured Article

Standing Strong for Kerr County

Combining professional expertise with personal dedication, Steve Vinklarek brings help and hope across county lines.

Article by Michelle Wood

Photography by Courtesy of Steve Vinklarek and Hunt Volunteer Fire Department (Hunt VFD)

Originally published in West Austin City Lifestyle

In times of crisis, leadership often comes from familiar faces. The recent flooding in Kerr County left lasting challenges for families and first responders. Standing alongside them was local State Farm agent Steve Vinklarek, who offered not only professional expertise but personal commitment.

Steve and his family acted quickly when floods struck rural communities, lending their voices, resources, and connections to support those in need. He encouraged aid for first responders and directed donations to the Hunt Volunteer Fire Department (Hunt VFD), a cornerstone of recovery efforts. Kerr County holds deep meaning for his family, his daughter has long been a proud Camp Mystic camper, though she was unable to attend this year. For Steve, the floods were deeply personal, and his leadership helped focus attention and resources on communities too often overlooked once the headlines fade

That spirit of service reflects the values at the center of his business. Steve began his career with State Farm in 1993 and became a full agent in 1998. Today his West Lake Hills office includes eight licensed team members who collectively bring more than a century of industry experience to families across Travis, Williamson, and Hays counties. From that foundation, he has built a reputation not just as a trusted insurance agent, but as a neighbor whose influence extends far beyond policy paperwork.

For Steve, responding to crisis means recognizing that loss affects people on a deeply personal level and that compassion is as essential as material aid. His calls for donations and his family’s active role in relief efforts reflect that conviction, reminding us that solidarity and emotional support are just as critical when communities are in upheaval.

Beyond disaster relief, Steve supports organizations close to home. His team partners with the Eanes Education Foundation and sponsors Westlake High School athletics, reinforcing ties across the Eanes community. He is listed as a proud sponsor of the Women’s Symphony League and the Junior Symphony League, which benefit the Austin Symphony and its youth programs. He has also appeared among local beneficiaries of the Austin Crop Hunger Walk, helping drive support for hunger-relief efforts.

For the residents of Kerr County, the Vinklarek family’s involvement has meant more than words, it has meant showing up, rallying support, and staying committed long after the headlines pass. Learn more about the Hunt Volunteer Fire Department and contribute directly to recovery efforts at HuntVFD.org/Donate.

"This part of Texas holds a special place in our hearts. The floods have changed everything. Last week, we visited and donated an ATV, a twenty-foot pole barn, a chainsaw, a power washer, a generator, and other supplies to support the recovery efforts." 
 

Businesses featured in this article