As The Family Place approaches its 28th Texas Trailblazer Award Luncheon on Friday, October 4, some additions have been made to the fundraiser’s program. Luncheon Co-Chairs Lauren Black, Nakita Johnson, Clarisa Lindenmeyer and Lauren McKinnon along with Honorary Co-Chairs Lindsay and George Billingsley have announced the creation of the Paige Flink Inaugural Icon Award.
Named in honor of The Family Place’s former CEO Paige Flink, it will “recognize those who work in their community and sphere of influence to bring people together and build partnerships to make Dallas a better place to live. These individuals personify a relentless drive to achieve results, refusing to accept ‘No’ as an answer and consistently delivering significant outcomes. In effect, they ‘get stuff done.'”
The first to receive the award that promises to be an annual presentation will be Jamie Williams. In addition to most recently serving as the Moody Foundation’s Human Resources Director/Regional Grants Director (North), Jamie had devoted the first half of career to children’s education focused on programs that improved outcomes for children with dyslexia through her work at the Dallas Independent School District, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital and Southern Methodist University.”
During her time working the Moody Foundation, “she was dedicated to the idea that philanthropy has the will and ripping force to become a ‘giant boulder of change in an ocean’ of urgent needs and was honored to help the Moody Foundation’s trustees maximize their impact by funding organizations and building collaborations that empower communities to thrive and prosper.”
According to The Family Place CEO Tiffany Tate, “I could not be more thrilled for the opportunity to celebrate the lasting effect of my dear friend and mentor Paige Flink, while also recognizing an individual who has made such a positive impact in her field. The Paige Flink Icon Award celebrates the resilience, tenacity, and grit of those who epitomize the true spirit of a doer—individuals who inspire through action and demonstrate unwavering dedication to making a difference. That is the perfect way to describe Paige Flink and our first recipient, Jamie Williams, both extraordinary individuals.”
Along with Jamie, Dr. Opal “Grandmother of Juneteenth” Lee will be honored with the 2024 Texas Trailblazer Award at the Hilton Anatole along with Justin Baldoni on stage as the day’s keynoter.
Funds raised from the luncheon will continue The Family Place’s critical mission of “stopping family violence and empowering survivors through safe housing, counseling, and skills development, and helping families transition from fear to safety.”
* Graphic courtesy of The Family Place