Houston's a city of great giving and the CultureMap Charity Challenge, presented by Yellow Cab, aims to highlight that. CultureMap selected 12 deserving nonprofits to compete for a grand prize as they all raise awareness for worthy causes. CultureMap is highlighting the charities over the next several weeks. Today: Casa de Esperanza.

With an original donation of $500 and the help of many friends, Kathy Foster and Bill Jones opened Casa de Esperanza's first home for children in crisis in 1982. Additional programs have been developed in the following years, including developmental and educational services.

In 1986, Casa de Esperanza became the second agency in the nation and the first in the greater Houston area to recognize and respond to the need for specialized residential care of children infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS. It's now the longest running program of its kind in the country.

Casa de Esperanza also provides safety, hope and a home to children whose families are affected by domestic violence, substance abuse, poverty, homelessness and mental illness. The facility cares for children from birth to age six and referrals come from family shelters, hospitals and Children's Protective Services.

The organization provides residential care and coordinates medical and psychological services according to the needs of each child. Since opening nearly 30 years ago, Casa de Esperanza has cared for over 4,000 children and their families.

Vote now for Casa de Esperanza — or one of the other worthy local nonprofits — in the CultureMap Charity Challenge.