News
May 12
Pursuit Center 75th anniversary luncheon raises more than $400,000
Houston, TX – Nothing says “welcome to Texas” like a cowboy hat. That’s exactly how Netflix stars Tanner Smith and Connor Tomlinson—fan favorites from Love on the Spectrum US—were greeted at Pursuit Center’s 75th anniversary luncheon on May 1, 2025, at the Houston Country Club. Donning their new Stetsons with pride, the duo was made to feel like true Texans as they joined their mothers, Nicci Smith and Lise Menard Smith, for a moving onstage conversation filled with laughter, emotion, and insight.
The aptly named Bring the Joy luncheon raised a record-breaking >$400,000 in support of Pursuit Center’s mission to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), autism, and similar conditions.
“The joy in that room was real—and a powerful reflection of the lives we touch every day,” said Charles Njuguna, President and CEO of Pursuit Center. “This milestone year is not just about looking back on 75 years of service. It’s about building momentum for the future—using our comprehensive support and innovative programs to help everyone we serve pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.”
The luncheon was the centerpiece of a week-long celebration of Pursuit Center’s 75th anniversary. Highlights included the lighting of Houston City Hall in Pursuit Center’s signature colors of blue, green, and white, along with proclamations and well wishes from elected officials across the state and nation. Among those recognizing the organization’s historic milestone were U.S. Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia, Governor Greg Abbott, State Senator Carol Alvarado, State Rep. Anna Hernandez, Harris County Commissioner Adrian Garcia, Mayor John Whitmire, and City Council Member Mario Castillo.
Proceeds from the luncheon will help fund employment support, wellness services, residential and community living options, and educational and recreational programming for individuals with IDD and autism across greater Houston.
Njuguna offered a heartfelt thank you to the sponsors and underwriters who helped make the luncheon a success:
Joy: Maire and David Baldwin, Michelle and Glen Shepard and Catalyst Financial Company
Cheer: Leigh Ann and Joe Blount; McGriff Insurance Services, LLC; Reform Chiropractic + Health; Beth Robertson; Jeri and Marc Shapiro; Aimee and Wynne Snoots
Happiness: The Cuenod Families, Allison and Tommy Edwards and Susan Connell, Anne Lents and David Heaney, Brittany Sakowitz Kushner and Kevin Kushner, PNC Bank, Santamaria Family
Delight: Doug Bacon; Tracey and John Buckley; Hon. Elizabeth Ray and Paul Choules; Mary Jane and Chris Mudd; Sarah and Bill Cornelius; Frost Bank; Guarraia Family; Drs. Holly and John Harrell; Heath Consulting; Sarah Herbeck and Coldwell Banker Realty; Ashley and Hugh Kress; Special Needs Ministry of Memorial Drive United Methodist Church; Evelyn MacLean-Quick and Steve Quick; Kristin and Lance Reynolds
Venue: Phillips Family Foundation
Gifts: Icon Wealth Partners
About Pursuit Center
For 75 years, Pursuit Center has championed the potential in every individual with intellectual and developmental disabilities across greater Houston. Our organization creates pathways to meaningful, dignified lives filled with possibility. Thousands of lives transformed stand testament to our comprehensive approach, through employment support, health and wellness resources, community living options, and specialized educational and recreational programming. At Pursuit Center, we provide the tools and opportunities that empower individuals to develop their unique abilities, foster independence, and fully participate in community life.
