The votes are in and counted for the first CultureMap Houston Charity Challenge, a two-week online contest in which readers were asked to recognize a non-profit organization for its good work.

You have spoken. Out of 12 local charities, the org that has earned the most votes is . . . the envelope please . . .

Applause for Victory Houston, an affiliate of the American Cancer Society helmed by a small coterie of remarkable women who do their part to raise funds and awareness for cancer research, education and patient services. You may know them for the yearly Cattle Baron's Ball, which despite inclement weather during last year's party at George Ranch Historic Park reined in a whopping $1.2 million.

The group is also responsible for the Holiday Shopping Card, a limited time membership launched in October of every year that offers discounts at many participating retailers around the city.

"This partnership with CultureMap means a great deal to us," Elizabeth Stein, Victory president, says. "The women of Victory, which we started in 1988, never stop. This support will help us become an even bigger force in the underwriting community — and support the efforts of the American Cancer Society."

Stein says that she mobilized her supporters with a persistent email campaign to existing members, supporting patrons and partnering business.

For winning CultureMap's community service project, Victory Houston will receive a $2,500 cash donation and an advertising package valued at $3,625.

Victory received roughly 30 percent of more than 7,000 votes that were cast. The Salvation Army came in next with 23 percent of the votes. Other participating nonprofits included Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bo's Place, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, Child Advocates, Houston Food Bank, Legacy Community Health Services, March of Dimes, Memorial Park Conservancy, Preservation Houston and SEARCH Homeless Services.

Victory Houston, an affiliate of the American Cancer Society, won CultureMap's Charity Challenge.

Courtesy photo

Victory Houston, an affiliate of the American Cancer Society, won CultureMap's Charity Challenge.