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HISD recently hosted its 53rd annual Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) Awards Ceremony to honor the contributions of volunteers from various sectors within the community. The event, which took place on April 25, saw a gathering of volunteers including parents, teachers, community members, and students who were recognized for their dedication and service.
Najah Callander, Senior Executive Director of External Engagement with HISD’s Family and Community Engagement Department, emphasized the significance of volunteers in HISD schools, stating, “Volunteers are so important to our work at HISD because we know that we can’t do it alone.” Callander highlighted the collaborative efforts of over 10,000 individuals who collectively contributed more than 200,000 hours of service, enhancing the educational experience for students.
The ceremony acknowledged several individuals and organizations for their outstanding commitment to volunteerism, including Angel Castillo, Tony Tuckwiller, Carra Moroni, Carrillo Elementary School PTO, Trees for Houston, and Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church. These awardees were recognized for their exemplary contributions and dedication to making a positive impact within the HISD community.
The theme of this year’s VIPS Awards Breakfast, "Celebrating Champions of Change," aimed to spotlight individuals who are actively engaged in creating positive transformations within their communities. Angel Castillo, the recipient of the Youth Volunteer of the Year award, expressed the importance of student involvement in volunteering, stating, “I feel like it’s important for students to volunteer so they can further involve themselves in their communities.”
The event served as a platform to celebrate the efforts of volunteers and underscore the crucial role they play in supporting the educational endeavors of HISD. To learn more about HISD’s Family and Community Engagement Department and volunteer opportunities, interested individuals can visit the FACE website for additional information.