For many children in foster care, the holiday season can be the hardest time of the year. While others gather for familiar traditions, these kids often face grief, separation, and reminders of past trauma. Some spend the holidays in group homes or temporary placements instead of stable family settings, making what should be a joyful season feel confusing and lonely.

In the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex alone, more than 9,000 children are currently in foster care, a number that reflects the urgent need for safe, nurturing homes here at home, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.Every year many youth age out of care without ever finding that lifelong connection. 

This is why adoption and foster support matter so deeply, especially now. Every child deserves a safe home, consistent traditions, and adults who show up for them not only during the holidays, but all year long. Opening your heart and home to a child can change the trajectory of their life and give them a sense of belonging at a time when it is needed most.

That’s why EMPOWER, a child welfare collaborative serving children and families across North Texas, is reminding the Dallas-Fort Worth community about the importance of offering love, stability, and hope throughout the holidays and beyond. The organization works alongside local families, support networks, and child welfare professionals to meet the unique needs of children in care, helping ensure they don’t walk this season alone. 

You don’t have to adopt to make a difference. You can mentor, support foster families, raise awareness, or simply take time to learn about the needs of children waiting for permanency. Every act of kindness strengthens the fabric of our community and shows kids that they matter, that their story can be full of hope, and that there is a place where they belong.

During this season of giving, consider the gift of family. Know that your involvement, in whatever form that takes, can bring light into a child’s life when they need it most.

Shirley Horn recently marked her 93rd birthday with a celebration at The Carnegie, inviting all community residents to join in the joy. The event was more than a personal milestone—it highlighted the vibrant friendships and connections that make life here so special.

At The Carnegie, residents have countless opportunities to gather, celebrate, and build lasting relationships. Moments like Shirley’s birthday reflect the heart of our community: a place where everyone belongs, friendships flourish, and everyday life is full of shared experiences.

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) has awarded Dallas College Foundation a $500,000 grant—the largest education and workforce development grant the Texas Women’s Foundation has ever made to a single organization. Texas Women’s Foundation leaders presented a check on November 19 at Dallas College’s Brookhaven Campus to support programs helping thousands of students enroll in Dallas College and access wraparound services that help them complete their education. These programs are part of Dallas College Foundation’s work to drive innovation and student success at Dallas College through strategic philanthropic investments.

Josh Skolnick, Executive Director of Dallas College Foundation said, “We thank Texas Women’s Foundation for its commitment to making a significant impact in education. This grant will help thousands of students achieve a life-changing credential, leading them to a rewarding career in Dallas’ top industries. The supported programs, including the Dallas College Promise Scholarship, have already helped over 26,000 students pursue their dreams.” Dallas College is  one of the largest colleges in the nation, serving more than 130,000 students.

Texas Women’s Foundation Board Chair Cris Zertuche Wong shared the findings from TXWF’s 2024 Economic Issues for Women in Texas Report. “Women play a critical role in the Texas economy, representing 46% of the workforce. And according to the Commit Partnership, 63% of all jobs in Texas will require some post-secondary education by 2031. This grant is designed to help women pursue and complete their education and to advance opportunities for economic security, stability, and success for themselves, their families and their futures.”

Dr. Carlos Cruz, Associate Vice Chancellor of Well Being & Social Support at Dallas College, discussed the grant’s impact. “A substantial portion of this grant will support the Dallas College Promise Scholarship, offering a tuition-free associate or bachelor’s degree to qualifying seniors at Promise High Schools. Scholarships are also available to eligible students’ parents or guardians to pursue a scholarship or to fund a certificate or associate’s degree at no cost, thus making this a true two-generation approach.”

He added, “The grant also supports the Finish & Fly Fund, helping students complete the final credit hours and certification exams needed for their credential, and the Family Care Program that supports student parents and expectant parents by addressing family care needs and providing critical wraparound services. Family support includes classes on parenting, nutrition and wellness, while also receiving guidance from a dedicated team that includes a student care coordinator, success coach, licensed counselor and academic tutor.”

Ann Margolin, Dallas College Foundation Board Vice Chair, former Texas Women’s Foundation board member and longtime supporter, added, “Thank you, Texas Women’s Foundation, for your leadership in research, advocacy and grantmaking. By making sure that education and workforce development are at the forefront of advancing women and girls, you are ensuring that the 14.7 million of us who call Texas home will play on a level playing field.” 

Karen Hughes White, Texas Women’s Foundation president and CEO, concluded, “Thank you, Dallas College, for the work you do to advance economic mobility for students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce. We are grateful to play a part in increasing opportunities for them.”

About Dallas College Foundation:  

Dallas College Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 that advances economic mobility for students by channeling the power of philanthropy to lift Dallas College to new heights of innovation, equity and excellence. Since its creation in 1973, the Foundation has raised more than $153 million in private donations and distributed more than $79 million in scholarships and grants to support thousands of students in Dallas College.    

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support nearly $5 million in investments each year that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $90 million in grantmaking in support of Texas women and girls and another $25 million in research, advocacy and educational programs for a total impact of $115 million. As the organization prepares for its next 40 years of impact, the need to build #StrongWomenBetterWorld has never been more critical. 

The Foundation’s statewide research on issues impacting Texas women and girls provides corporate, state and local decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and evidence-based programs support solutions that help remove the barriers to women’s economic security, stability and success.  In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the mission-aligned investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a values-based portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now.

North Texas’ coolest holiday host, DJ Polar Ice of The Light Park, delivered festive cheer, high-energy music, and unforgettable family fun during two beloved holiday traditions: the 2025 Dallas Holiday Parade and Little Elm’s Very Merry Christmas celebration and parade.

A fan favorite across Texas, DJ Polar Ice entertained thousands of spectators across both cities, spreading the joy, sparkle, and music synonymous with The Light Park—Texas’ biggest drive-thru holiday lights spectacular.

A Frosty Favorite at the Dallas Holiday Parade

On Saturday morning, DJ Polar Ice joined the iconic Dallas Holiday Parade, appearing alongside The Light Park float featuring dazzling lights, themed décor, and costumed characters. With an estimated 400,000+ spectators lining the streets and thousands more watching the televised broadcast, Polar Ice kept spirits bright with curated holiday mixes, crowd engagement, and signature dance prompts that delighted families of all ages.

The Light Park float appeared in the second half of the televised broadcast, offering viewers a joyful reminder that holiday fun continues all season long at three DFW locations—Frisco, Arlington, and Little Elm.

“This parade has been the heartbeat of Dallas holiday tradition for decades,” said The Light Park’s Matt Johnson. “Bringing DJ Polar Ice to the streets of downtown provided a perfect way to show the community exactly what The Light Park does best—celebrate togetherness, joy, and the magic of the season.”

Holiday Joy Continues in Little Elm

Later that same day, DJ Polar Ice brought the winter wonderland energy to Little Elm’s Very Merry Christmas Parade, walking the route alongside costumed characters and festive floats. Following the parade, the celebration concluded with the annual Tree Lighting, drawing families to Little Elm’s lakeside district for seasonal activities, photo ops, and holiday performances.

Little Elm officials welcomed more than 6,000 attendees, marking one of the community’s most spirited turnouts. DJ Polar Ice’s interaction with children and families throughout the walk and tree lighting added extra excitement, music, and movement to the beloved hometown celebration.

“Little Elm represents the heart of Texas holiday community spirit,” said Johnson. “Polar Ice is more than a DJ—he’s a character who invites people to dance, laugh, and simply feel the magic of being together.”

The Light Park: The Holiday Experience That Keeps Celebrating

Families who met DJ Polar Ice along the parade routes are invited to continue the fun at The Light Park, open nightly through January 4 at all DFW locations.

Guests enjoy:

• Millions of synchronized holiday lights
• Drive-thru formats perfect for families, pets & visiting relatives
• Soundtrack synced to their car radio
• Specialty treats, including Blitzen Bundles and photo collectibles
• Weeknight value pricing and limited-time holiday offerings

Holiday travelers, visiting grandparents, and families looking to keep the celebration going will find the most accessible and stress-free holiday tradition right from the seat of their own car.

Grant Halliburton Foundation held its 16^th annual Hope Party on Nov. 21 at The Statler in downtown Dallas with more than 530 supporters in attendance. The event raised a record-breaking $620,000+ through sponsorships, underwriting, tickets, live and silent auctions, a wine and spirits pull, and the Sips and Sparkles champagne wall, where attendees played for a chance to win a one-carat diamond donated by Sue Gragg Precious Jewels. Funds raised support the Foundation’s work providing mental health education, resources and support to North Texas youth and their families.

At the Welcome Reception, DJ RomiQ spun lively music to create a party atmosphere. Attendees sipped beverages and visited with friends, all while perusing and bidding on more than 250 silent auction items. The Platinum and Ruby Sponsors and VIPs were invited to the VIP Lounge to enjoy small bites and a private bar, underwritten by Martha and Hon. Douglas Lang.

The ballroom featured Bordeaux red accents and beautiful floral creations by Floral and Décor Underwriter, CONCEPTO. The stage was draped in dramatic red draping thanks to PARTY! Dallasand Todd Fiscus.

The emcees were Emmy-winning local TV personalities Steve Noviello from Fox 4 and Jenny Anchondo from CW33. Event co-chairs were Karla Noone, who volunteered on the 2024 event committee, and Reed Robertson, who co-chaired the 2024 Hope Party.

Robertson thanked Christopher Barkley Foundation for being the presenting sponsor for the third year in a row. “You never know whose life you might be changing by simply standing shoulder to shoulder with them and helping to build a better, more inclusive cornerstone for tomorrow, one veil lifted at a time.”

Noone told about her involvement with youth mental health, especially through Hope Squad, where her two sons are both members. “Grant Halliburton Foundation’s programs equip students not only to recognize the signs of struggle sooner; they teach them to speak up earlier and to support each other without fear.”

Rev. Doyle Dietz Allen gave the invocation. Evan Knight then played the saxophone while guests enjoyed their dinner.

After a mission video, Kevin Hall, Grant Halliburton Foundation president, spoke about the collaborations with other groups to reach even more youth with life-saving mental health programs. He also told how the Foundation assembled trauma and grief resources during the devastating Texas Hill Country floods through its Here For Texas mental health provider network.

Amy Halliburton McCloskey, Grant’s sister and Grant Halliburton Foundation co-founder, said, “While we are still heartbroken, we also feel immense gratitude for Grant’s life and for the enduring mission of this Foundation that has helped so many families and saved so many lives. Every call answered, every person educated, and every life saved renews our dedication to this critical mission.”

Auctioneer Jake Addams conducted the live auction featuring sports suites, travel destinations and a concert. The most popular item was the private home in San Miguel, which fetched top dollar and sold to three different people, thanks to the donor. The fundraising concluded with the paddle raise where generous donors contributed to the Foundation.

AURA played while guests danced and socialized. After the event concluded, some stayed for The Encore After Party featuring DJ Lucy Wrubel, presented by Sagefield Capital, where the party continued.

Special thanks to these generous sponsors:

Platinum Sponsor (Presenting): Christopher Barkley Foundation

Ruby: Alexander Family G3 Giving Fund, Khaite, Lockton, Lyda Hill Philanthropies, Maria and Jock Stafford

Emerald: Shelley and Jeff Becker, Jennfer and Tom Karol, Sloan and Tyler Milton, Nancy and Mitchell Spector, Tom Ford

Additional sponsors and underwriters: https://www.granthalliburton.org/hopeparty

Learn more about the Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org

(photo credit: Simon Luna Photography)