For 35 years, Bo’s Place has been a sanctuary for families navigating grief. To mark this milestone anniversary, the nonprofit’s Hearts of Hope Dinner took on a special significance, shifting from its traditional luncheon to an evening affair at The Post Oak Hotel.

At the heart of the event was the presentation of the Robin Bush Award to Sue Smith and Craig Brown, whose personal experiences with grief have fueled their dedication to service. They shared their stories of profound loss and how they transformed sorrow into a commitment to uplifting their community. The award, named in memory of Robin Bush, daughter of President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush, honors those who have made a lasting difference in the lives of children.

Guiding the evening was Lisa Malosky as emceed while Khambrel Marshall led the appeal. A highlight was the opportunity to purchase personalized bricks — each one a tangible step in paving the way for families seeking solace at Bo’s Place.

Co-chairs Mary and Gene Alford and Megan and Luke Hotze, alongside honorary co-chairs Lindy and Larry Neuhaus, Susan and Charlie Neuhaus, Mary Kessler and Henry Sauer, and Ali and Taylor Williams, ensured the night was both meaningful and memorable. During the program, Mary Alford shared her own family’s story of tragedy, reflecting on the loss of their youngest son just one year after her husband, Gene Alford, was paralyzed in a devastating accident. Her story, along with two poignant video tributes featuring the Neuhaus and Robertson families, underscored the organization’s role in helping families find hope after loss.

Hearts of Hope raised a record-breaking $900,000 thanks to the 600-plus guests and sponsors.

Spotted were Lisa Helfman and Lee Haverman, Jeryl and Jeff Golub, Sarah and Doug Foshee, Wade Upton and Flo McGee, April and Wells McGee, Julia and Harvin Lawhon, Travis Torrence, Debbie Leder, Bess and Darren Gore, Lauren and John Alford, Allison and Taylor Parker, Lauren and Rob Gray, Jamie Broach Byrd and Jeff Byrd, Sushma and Haresh Yalamanchili, Carol and Brad Deason, and Robert Le and Cecile Cao.

  

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

John Alford, Lauren, Bess Alford Gore, Allison Parker, and Taylor Parker.