When Joan Schnitzer-Levy dons that Tony's apron next Sunday night, it will be the 31st consecutive year that this respected philanthropist has stepped out in support of ESCAPE Family Resource Center, displaying a dedication and tenacity that is rare in the world of charity fundraisers.

Through the decades as ESCAPE Celebrity Serve chair, Joan in conjunction with Gerald Franklin, ESCAPE founder and trustee, has delivered the social clout and the star power that has guaranteed a sellout of the playful evening that features local sports, media and social celebs as waiters. This year, Houston Texans owners Janice and Bob McNair have signed on as headliners, following in the footsteps of 2011 stars Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and wife Gene.

Joan's loyalty to the non-profit that helps abused and neglected children and provides training for their parents is unfailing in her loyalty.

As she said, "My father used to say there is no such thing as a bad charity. There are only charities that you prefer. And we all have to choose . . . these children will not even have a chance to go to the ballet or the opera if we don't give them a chance, now."

By any estimation 30 years is a long time. "I keep telling them they need to get someone else," Joan said. "But I do love it. They do an incredible job in helping children and families. Everyone is dedicated."

"Until I can find somebody to replace me, I guess I'll keep on chairing it."

Through the years, Joan has brought in such stars as Ed McMahon, Debbie Reynolds, Robert Goulet, Harry Hamlin, Cheryl Tiegs and Clint Black with Lisa Hartman. For many years, it was a zany evening at Benihana. Recently, the party moved to Tony's.

"Everybody always loves it at Tony's because the food is so good," she said.

Among the 25 celebrity waiters lined up to serve dinner are Channel 13 sports director Bob Allen, Channel 2 news anchor Dominique Sachse, social force Lynn Waytt, the Astros' Milo Hamilton and loads of TV and radio personalities.

You can get details and make reservations here.