C@R Celebrates 35 Years by Recognizing 35 Changemakers

As we commemorate the 35th anniversary of CHILDREN AT RISK, we reflect on the accomplishments of 35 changemakers—leaders, advocates, and champions whose vision and dedication continue to drive change and inspire us each day.

CHILDREN AT RISK IS HONORED TO celebrate the legacy of our 35 for 35 Trailblazers—a group of dedicated advocates and champions who’ve made lasting contributions to improve the lives of children and families across Texas. From founding members and board leaders to longstanding partners, these honorees embody the commitment and vision that have driven our mission forward for over 35 years.

Today and every day, we celebrate the impact of each trailblazer, from advancing early childhood education and public health, to strengthening child advocacy through policy and community engagement. Their achievements continue to inspire change and empower the next generation of advocates.

Join Us in Celebrating These Changemakers

As we honor these 35 remarkable individuals, we invite you to join us in amplifying their stories and commitment to the cause. Each of these honorees reminds us that positive change is possible, and their dedication paves the way for future generations. Together, let’s continue this journey of advocacy, equity, and hope.

Learn More About C@R’s Honorees

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Samuels Family Foundation & Ben Samuels

The Samuels Family Foundation has been pivotal in expanding CHILDREN AT RISK’s early childhood education initiatives, driving meaningful progress in access to quality early learning. Through Ben Samuels’ leadership, their support strengthens efforts to create lasting change for Texas children.

Devika Kornbacher

Former Chair of the Board of Directors, Devika provided critical leadership for the organization during the COVID-19 pandemic, steering CHILDREN AT RISK through the challenges so the team could continue to advocate for Texas children when they needed it most.

Dr. Bob Sanborn

Fondly known as Dr. Bob, he has greatly expanded C@R’s influence since taking the reins in 2005. Through countless initiatives, he’s positioned C@R as a leading research and advocacy organization in Texas and has championed bipartisan legislation, all #ForChildren!

Mark Troth

Over the last 15 years, Mark Troth has supported Texas children as a member of the Board of Directors and a driving force for the Golf Classic, keeping this event going strong for more than 23 years. Mark also served as a key banking partner for the organization.

Texas Children’s Hospital & Mark Wallace

As a top hospital for children and mothers, Texas Children’s Hospital has been a key partner for years. With doctors volunteering on our Board, they’ve helped shape our health initiatives and advocacy. Under Mark Wallace’s 35-year leadership, the Hospital has grown substantially while supporting organizations like C@R.

Jim Mickelson

One of the founders and first CEO of CHILDREN AT RISK, Mickelson worked for over a decade to put CHILDREN AT RISK on the map with significant victories around Head Start and the creation of the City County Commission on Children.

Dr. Maconda Brown O’Connor

A social worker, philanthropist, and champion for children in poverty. As one of the founders of CHILDREN AT RISK, her generous gifts of talent and treasure sustained the organization through the years.

Dr. Jeffrey Starke

As one of the early leaders and board members of the organization, Dr. Starke had a significant impact on the growth of CHILDREN AT RISK into the statewide leader it is today.

Dr. Angelo Giardino

A longtime board member of CHILDREN AT RISK and child health advocate, Dr. Giardino helped launch the Journal for Applied Research on Children and the Journal for Family Strengths.

Dr. Chris Greeley

Having served as a board member for many years, Dr. Greeley is currently the executive editor for the Journal of Applied Research for Children. He is also one of the founders of our Center for Parenting and Family Well-Being.

Dr. Carolyn Farb

The first lady of philanthropy in Houston. Carolyn chaired three Stand Up for Children events for the organization, recruiting Craig Ferguson, Jay Leno, and Randy Travis to support CHILDREN AT RISK.

Philamena Baird

The original Mrs. Baird, Philamena joined our Board 20 years ago and brought our Golf Tournament to new levels of success. She added her touch of sophistication to the organization.

Melissa Wilson

A 25-year dedicated supporter who has served faithfully on our Golf Committee, among her many contributions. It’s not unusual to see Dr. Bob on the air with Melissa on the Fox Morning News.

Bob Zincke

A former president of Kroger and chair of the board of directors at CHILDREN AT RISK, Bob was instrumental in the growth of the board. During his tenure, the organization expanded its reach throughout the state.

Matthew Winter & Jane Lehman

Matt and Jane have been longtime friends of the organization. Jane served for many years on our Governing and Law Advisory Boards. They have been significant supporters of our work and joined us on the Stopping Traffic Around the World Tour.

Mandi Kimball

Defined by our CEO Dr. Bob as the secret to our success as the most powerful voice for children at the Texas State Legislature. Dr. Bob and Mandi have worked together at CHILDREN AT RISK for the past 20 years.

Mike Maher

Mike served as chair of the Board of Directors during periods of our most rapid growth. He is a Board Member Emeritus and continues to lend his generous support to the CHILDREN AT RISK Golf Tournament.

Bob & Heather Westendarp

Heather served on the Board that recruited our CEO Dr. Bob. Later, Bob Westendarp joined and served as chair. They have been longtime supporters, bringing financial acumen and creativity to help secure sustainability.

Ted Poe

Congressman and Judge Ted Poe helped CHILDREN AT RISK advocate at the federal level for many years during his time in Congress, shining a light on the fight against human trafficking.

Buddy Steves

A longtime board member and passionate advocate for children, Buddy has generously supported CHILDREN AT RISK throughout the years and was instrumental in launching our Center for New American Children.

Houston Chronicle

As a major partner of CHILDREN AT RISK, the Houston Chronicle published our Annual School Rankings beginning in their second year, helping shine a spotlight on public education.

Carole Driscoll

Carole was one of the founders of CHILDREN AT RISK. She continued to support us by recruiting social work interns to the agency, making CHILDREN AT RISK a true teaching and learning organization.

Larry Payne

Larry epitomized the idea of serving those most in need. He was a well-known activist in the Greater Houston community and served on the CHILDREN AT RISK board for many years.

Grace Olivares & Univision

Grace Olivares & Univision have been significant partners in our outreach to Latino families in Texas. They created the Mi Familia Latino Health Fair, held at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

Cecilia & Garrett Boone

Cecilia served on the first North Texas advisory board and hosted the grand opening of our North Texas office. The Boones are ardent supporters, making our Dallas presence meaningful.

Kyle Jennings & AIG

AIG has been one of our most supportive corporate partners, providing significant board members, including Kyle Jennings, and sustaining us with their generous support.

David & Deborah Roylance

David was a board member and continues as a faithful supporter. As board chair, he was instrumental in opening the North Texas office, and they are co-chairs of this year’s Accolades Luncheon.

Dr. Frazier Wilson & Shell

A former board member and executive at Shell, Dr. Wilson brought in one of our major corporate partners. Shell continues to champion our efforts to improve the quality of public education.

Pam Humphrey

One of the longest-serving board members, Pam has provided ties to key African American organizations and brought significant new corporate contacts as a powerhouse in the insurance world.

Mark Lee

As a longtime supporter and board member, Mark was responsible for the organization receiving substantial support and visibility through the Houston Astros Saves for Our Children program.

The Embrey Family Foundation

The Embrey Family Foundation was instrumental in helping CHILDREN AT RISK develop a presence in North Texas, providing free rent in our first Dallas home and supporting our fight against human trafficking.

W.K. Kellogg Foundation

The W.K. Kellogg Foundation has provided transformational gifts to expand our early childhood education initiatives, establishing CHILDREN AT RISK as a leader in improving quality early education.

Wafa Abdin

An immigration activist in Houston, Wafa was the first to alert CHILDREN AT RISK to human trafficking in Texas. Because of Wafa, CHILDREN AT RISK is now a leader in fighting human trafficking.

David Cordua

A longtime board member and friend, David chaired our Spring Party Big Brunch fundraiser and continues to open his restaurant doors to CHILDREN AT RISK for stewardship events.

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