Education Foundation of Harris County

This semester, we had the pleasure of working alongside an incredible intern, Zahra, through the University of Houston ’s Civic Houston Internship Program (CHIP) in the Hobby School of Public Affairs. 💙

During her time with the Education Foundation of Harris County, Zahra gained firsthand experience in nonprofit and education foundation operations while working closely alongside the Education Foundation & Partnerships Director, Trina Silva. Through this experience, she received a behind-the-scenes look at donor engagement, partnership development, event planning, and the important role community collaboration plays in expanding opportunities for students across Harris County.

Zahra also assisted with the implementation of a new donor management software system and helped plan and execute our 3rd Annual Heart of Education Luncheon. Her professionalism, work ethic, intelligence, and willingness to jump in wherever needed made a tremendous impact on our team, and she quickly became an invaluable part of our work this spring semester.

We are especially excited to celebrate Zahra as she graduated this semester and prepares for her next chapter: law school! ⚖️

There is no doubt that Zahra has an incredibly bright future ahead of her, and we cannot wait to see all she accomplishes. She is truly a superstar, and we are so grateful for the time she spent with us.

Congratulations, Zahra — we are cheering you on every step of the way! 👏

We were proud to feature the incredible CASE for Kids student debaters from Spring Branch Independent School District at our 3rd Annual Heart of Education Luncheon! 🎤

These students captivated the audience with their confidence, professionalism, and powerful communication skills — showcasing exactly how educational enrichment programs help prepare students for success far beyond the classroom.

Their poise and ability to thoughtfully engage in discussion reflected this year’s theme, From Backpacks to Briefcases, and served as a reminder of the importance of investing in opportunities that help students find and strengthen their voices.

Thank you to these outstanding students for sharing your talent and inspiring nearly 230 education advocates, community leaders, and supporters in attendance. The future is bright! 💙

One of the most meaningful parts of this year’s luncheon was seeing so many friends, colleagues, and supporters gathered in honor of Donna Cole and her lasting impact on education and STEM advocacy. 💙

Your presence helped make the day incredibly special and served as a powerful reminder of the community Donna has inspired throughout her career. Thank you for celebrating alongside us and for continuing to champion opportunities for students across Harris County.

It was truly an honor to be in a room filled with so many passionate education and CASE for Kids advocates.

The beautiful floral arrangements at our luncheon were created by the talented students of Klein ISD's Klein Oak High School floral design program — and they absolutely elevated the room. 🌸

Not only were the arrangements stunning, but the students’ professionalism and attention to detail were remarkable. They arrived early, carefully inspected each centerpiece, replaced damaged stems, and ensured every arrangement looked pristine before guests arrived.

Their dedication, artistry, and work ethic embodied the spirit of From Backpacks to Briefcases. We are so grateful for their contribution to this special event!

One of the highlights of this year’s luncheon was engaging with the incredible EcoBot students from Galena Park ISD's Sam Houston Elementary who represent the future of innovation, STEM, and environmental leadership. 🌱🤖

These students reminded us exactly why educational enrichment opportunities matter. Their creativity, confidence, and passion were inspiring to everyone in the room and perfectly reflected our theme, From Backpacks to Briefcases.

Thank you for sharing your talents and showing what is possible when students are given opportunities to explore, create, and lead. We cannot wait to see what you accomplish next!

We were honored to welcome back Leisa Holland-Nelson Bowman and Shavonnah Roberts Shreiber of Culture Club HTX as co-emcees of our 3rd Annual Heart of Education Luncheon! 🎤

Their energy, professionalism, and passion for education helped make this year’s event both meaningful and memorable. From celebrating student voices to highlighting the impact of after-school and enrichment programs, they helped bring our From Backpacks to Briefcases theme to life in such a powerful way.

Thank you both for helping us inspire nearly 230 education advocates gathered in support of Harris County students and families! 💙

A heartfelt thank you to the incredible sponsors who made our 3rd Annual Heart of Education Luncheon possible! Because of your generosity and commitment to education, we welcomed nearly 230 guests and raised more than $95,000 to support Harris County students and enrichment opportunities through CASE for Kids.

This year’s theme, From Backpacks to Briefcases, highlighted the power of after-school, summer, and enrichment programs in shaping future leaders, innovators, and professionals. We are grateful for every organization, business, and individual who invested in students and stood with us in support of educational opportunity for all.

Together, we are creating brighter futures — one student at a time. 💙

Grateful for the continued support of Versa Creative!

EFHC’s Heart of Education Luncheon Transports Community Partners into a CASE for Kids Afterschool Program The soft whir of LEGO robots rolling across the floor mixed with the chatter of educators, community partners and Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) staff as guests stepped into the Junio…