Rally at Minute Maid

United Way of Greater Houston kicks off $77 million fundraising campaign

Nearly 1,500 supporters from about 100 companies get energized during the UnitedWay of Greater Houston’s campaign kick-off at Minute Maid Park.
Rich Kruger, United Way of Greater Houston Campaign chairman and president ofExxonMobil Production Co., announces this year’s goal of $77 million.
Rich Kruger and Anna Babin, president and CEO, United Way of Greater Houston.

United Way of Greater Houston has kicked off its 2011-2012 campaign season with a goal of raising $77 million for a wide array of programs in a five-county area.

"Houston's ability to grow and thrive depends on a new generation equipped to compete on a national and global level," United Way campaign chairman Rich Kruger told nearly 1,500 enthusiatic volunteers at the kick off rally at Minute Maid Park. "And, United Way is working to make sure our children can be successful and have the opportunity to realize their dreams."

In addition to educational support for area children through mentoring, child care, and other programs, United Way of Greater Houston assists seniors; those affected by domestic or substance abuse, job loss, natural disaster, and other emergencies; and families.

"What we do now determines the future," United Way of Greater Houston president and CEO Anna Babin told the enthusiastic crowd. "And, United Way is here for families who need us because you're here for United Way."

The event also signaled the beginning of the 20th annual United Way Days of Caring crusade: Over the next several months, thousands of employee volunteers from area companies will participate in a host of service projects.

To see how you can get involved, visit the United Way of Greater Houston website.

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Editor's note: It's time to look back at the 5 hottest Houston headlines of the week. The first full week of 2025 was full of major restaurant news, from a star chef breaking his silence to a high-profile sushi restaurant closure and a massive celebrity tip. Here are CultureMap's most popular stories of the week. And for the best things to do in Houston this weekend, go here.

1. Houston chef breaks his silence on sudden exit from Woodlands restaurant. Chef Austin Simmons broke his silence about his sudden departure from Tris, the fine dining restaurant in The Woodlands that closed following his resignation, with an exclusive statement to CultureMap.

2. Another Houston dive bar lives on thanks to Anvil owner Bobby Heugel. Bobby Heugel has added another neighborhood bar to his roster of preservation projects. He and partner Peter Jahnke recently acquired the Blue Lagoon Club, a bar in Spring Branch that’s been in business for more than 40 years.

3. Luxurious Houston steak and sushi restaurant suddenly shutters. An inner loop restaurant known for its steak and sushi has served its last nigiri. Roka Akor’s Houston location has closed its doors.

Roka Akor sashimi platter Roka Akor has closed. Courtesy photo

4. Iconic Houston cocktail bar brings back happy hour for first time in 5 years. Happy hour is back at Anvil. Anvil now opens at 2 pm instead of 4 pm, with happy hour offerings for the first time since 2020.

5. Post Malone shocks Houston bartender with 'life-changing' $20,000 tip. Music superstar Post Malone helped one Houston hospitality worker have a very Merry Christmas when he left a $20,000 tip during a visit to The Railyard, a neighborhood bar near River Oaks.

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