Difference
Makers
The people and organizations making Texas a better place, one story at a time.
Know someone that is making a difference in another person's life? We want to hear about it so we can give them the recognition they deserve!
Stories That Inspire
Difference Maker2025 Dr. Ronald H. Sunderland Volunteer of the Year
Karla Lundquist has made a remarkable impact across several of CarePartners' Gathering Place programs — from helping launch a program at the Mamie George Community Center with only one volunteer (herself) to inspiring others to join because of her example. Karla now volunteers at three Gathering Place sites and her influence has been undeniable.
CarePartners
Volunteer Recognition
Difference MakerGovernor's Volunteer Awards — 2025 Awardees
The OneStar Foundation's Governor's Volunteer Awards honor the extraordinary Texans whose volunteer service transforms lives and strengthens communities across the state. The 2025 class of awardees represents the very best of Texas — individuals and organizations going above and beyond to make a lasting difference.
View All AwardeesOneStar Foundation
Governor's Volunteer Awards
Difference MakerMattress Mack Donates 500 Beds to Hill Country Flood Victims
Houston philanthropist and furniture mogul Jim "Mattress Mack" McIngvale stepped up in a big way after the devastating July Fourth floods, donating 500 mattresses to families who lost everything. True to his reputation, Mack put action behind his words — proving once again that "Texans Helping Texans" is more than just a saying.
KENS 5 — San Antonio
Texans Helping Texans
Difference MakerHeroes of Houston — Tom Ashworth
Nominated by the Houston Food Bank, Tom Ashworth is a retired volunteer whose home was completely flooded by Hurricane Harvey — yet his spirit of service never wavered. Tom's dedication to his community and his unwavering commitment to helping others even in the face of personal hardship makes him a true Hero of Houston.
Houston Food Bank
Heroes of Houston
Difference MakerNational Coach of the Year Named at Clear Creek High School
Ty Halford, head water polo coach at Clear Creek High School, has been named the 2024-2025 National Boys Water Polo Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). In eight years leading the Wildcats, Halford compiled a 109-15-3 record, won back-to-back Class 6A state championships, and earned recognition from the Texas High School Coaches Association and Texas Farm Bureau Insurance — a true testament to his dedication to student athletes and the Clear Creek community.
Read Full StoryClear Creek ISD
NFHS National Coach of the Year
Difference MakerClear Creek ISD & Dickinson ISD Educators Named 2026 Region 4 Teachers of the Year
Vickie Wright of McWhirter Elementary (Clear Creek ISD) and Ashley Anderson of Dickinson Continuation Center (Dickinson ISD) have been named the 2026 Region 4 Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year by the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA). Selected from a pool of finalists spanning 47 public school districts and 43 charter schools across the Houston area, both educators will now represent the region at the state level — where one will be named Texas Teacher of the Year and advance to the National competition.
Read Full StoryRegion 4 Education Service Center
2026 Region 4 Teachers of the Year
Difference MakerClear Creek ISD's Vickie Wright Named 2026 Texas Teacher of the Year
McWhirter Elementary fifth-grade English language arts teacher Vickie Wright has been named the 2026 Texas Teacher of the Year by the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA). A National Board-Certified educator with 14 years of experience, Wright now advances to the National Teacher of the Year program — whose winner is announced by the President of the United States. Inspired by her great-grandmother who believed in her potential, Wright is devoted to building up every student and fostering supportive, empowering environments in every classroom.
Read Full StoryClear Creek ISD
2026 Texas Teacher of the Year
Difference MakerDr. Engle Named as 2024 Texas PTA Superintendent of the Year
The Texas PTA has recognized Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Dr. Karen Engle as the 2024 PTA Superintendent of the Year. A product of CCISD herself — from Clear Lake City Elementary all the way through Clear Lake High School — Dr. Engle has dedicated her career to the district she grew up in, serving as elementary principal, high school principal, assistant superintendent, and now Superintendent. Her exceptional leadership and deep commitment to involving parents and families in student success make her a true Difference Maker for the entire Clear Creek community.
Read Full StoryClear Creek ISD
Texas PTA Superintendent of the Year
Difference MakerHouston Hero — Making a Difference in the Community
A remarkable Houston resident whose selfless dedication and tireless efforts are transforming lives across the community. This inspiring individual embodies the spirit of service, going above and beyond to help neighbors in need and create positive change throughout Southeast Texas.
KHOU 11
Houston News