Celebrating a Remarkable Year of Volunteer Service

The 2026 Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon was one for the books! From the moment folks walked in, there was a spirit of joy, gratitude, and good ol’ fashioned fellowship in the air. Between the memories shared around tables and the down-home cooking, it was a wonderful time to gather and celebrate the incredible people who saddle up time and time again to serve our community.

The cactus ring toss and cornhole games brought out plenty of smiles, laughter, and just the right amount of competitive spirit. It was a fun reminder that while the work we do is meaningful, taking time to enjoy one another’s company is just as important.

This special afternoon gave us the chance to tip our hats to the volunteers who keep GRACE running strong. Day in and day out, they show up with grit, heart, and a willingness to lend a hand wherever it’s needed. Their dedication is what helps us continue our mission and serve our neighbors with compassion.

The highlight of the day was recognizing our outstanding annual award winners—folks who have truly gone above and beyond and shown what it means to serve with purpose:

  • Board Member: Morgan Nichols
  • Client Services: Dean Hawks
  • Community Clinic: Min Yi, D.O.
  • Community Garden: Caryn Hutchinson
  • Development: Laurie & Larry Wall
  • Donation Station: Danny Gunn
  • Food Pantry: Bonnie Russell
  • Friends & Family: Lauren Green
  • GRACEful Buys Euless: Amparo Vela
  • GRACEful Buys Grapevine: Ira Hinkle
  • Jake Williamson Youth Volunteer of the Year: Coppell ISD STEP Program
  • Seasonal Programs: Sheila Moyer
  • Special Events: Daveen Miller
  • Volunteer Group of the Year: First Grapevine Methodist Church
  • Volunteer of the Year: Christmas Cottage Elves

To all our award winners, we offer a heartfelt congratulations! And to every single volunteer who continues to show up and serve—you are the backbone of this mission, and we are beyond grateful for you.

We also want to extend a big thank you to those who helped pull off such a meaningful event….especially White’s Chapel who provided the space, Chef Joey who provided the amazing meal, and HTeaO for the refreshing beverages! As always, you prove to be very valuable friends of GRACE.

As we look ahead, we’re proud to ride alongside each of you for another year of service. Because if there’s one thing we know for sure—it may not be your first rodeo, but the impact you make never gets old!