Made It Weird

Pete Holmes brings the laughs to Houston for a meaningful mission

The Broach Foundation for Brain Cancer Research gathered supporters at River Oaks Country Club for its 14th Annual Stand Up for Brain Cancer Gala. The event paired purpose with a healthy dose of humor — because the toughest battles can benefit from a little levity.

Guests were welcomed by co-founder Jamie Broach Bryd, her husband, Jeff Bryd, and their family during a pre-reception. Following a gourmet seated dinner, guests turned their attention to the evening’s headliner, Pete Holmes. Known for his stand-up specials, television appearances, and popular podcast “You Made It Weird,” Holmes delivered his blend of self-aware humor and authenticity.

The mission traces back to James Broach, who was diagnosed with a Grade II astrocytoma in 2010 before later facing glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Although James Broach passed away in 2013, his vision continues to guide the organization.

More than 400 guests attended the sold-out gala.

Joining the cause-minded crowd were Ilona Carson and Jim Colosanto, Greg and Jamie Grissom, Holly and Hunter Stewart, Andy and Ashlee Veit, Jennifer and Michael Dellinger, Corey and David Le Norman, Jan Bres, Jennifer and Farzad Askari, Anita O’Shaughnessy, Lindsey and Tray Black, Carrie and Tom Field, and Megan Davis.

Photo by Priscilla Dickson

Jeff Byrd, Jamie Broach Byrd, and Pete Holmes.

fundraisers

Illuminating the Future

Student success takes center stage at Houston nonprofit's soirée

Photo by Dave Rossman

Cassie Milam, Caroline Brown, Cathryn Lyman, Tara English, Virginia Cramer, and Lauren Brollier.

Houston nonprofit Communities In Schools (CIS) welcomed more than 450 guests to The Post Oak Hotel for its Illuminating Student Futures Gala to support underserved students in Houston. Chaired by Tara and Spencer English and Cathryn and David Lyman, the evening featured dinner, remarks from leaders and students, and recognition of former Harris County Judge Ed Emmett and Gwen Emmett for their longtime support.

Guests eased into the night with a cocktail reception before settling in for dinner and a program emceed by Lisa Malosky, while Rev. Rachel Sciretti delivered the invocation. Former board presidents Bob Gower and Bill Hurt recognized current board president Omar Reid for steering the organization through both the COVID-19 pandemic and the transformative MacKenzie Scott gift that marked the largest donation in CIS Houston history.

Guests also watched a video highlighting CIS’ Mental Health Initiative, now the largest provider of campus-based mental health services in Harris County, while “Voices of CIS” testimonials brought students, alumni, and counselors to the forefront.

The night wrapped with dancing courtesy of Klockwork.

The event raised nearly $500,000 for the organization.

Spotted were Ginger Blanton, Ruth and Steven Turley, Caroline and Will Brown, Virginia and Cramer Williams, Kay and Dan English, Jen and Brian Moss, Lizzy and Sammy Cashiola, Kim Fangman, Margaret Elkins, State Rep. Mano DeAyala and Melissa DeAyala, Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey and Marsha Ramsey, Dustin Spencer, Kristin and Walker Agnew, Joel Glover, Julie Stephenson, and Sharon and Ezra Yacob.

Photo by Dave Rossman

Cassie Milam, Caroline Brown, Cathryn Lyman, Tara English, Virginia Cramer, and Lauren Brollier.

fundraisers communities in schools