May 21: Texas Trailblazer Awards luncheon co-chairs, Anh and Dr. Loc Trieu, along with Amanda and Lloyd Ward, could not have asked for a more perfect evening to kick off announcements for the luncheon, benefiting The Family Place.

The Omni Dallas Hotel’s Owner’s Box restaurant and sports bar opened its doors to the patio, welcoming a cool, light breeze. That space was the first to fill in with The Family Place supporters and committee, such as Diane and Daryl Johnston, who were announced as honorary chairs; Maggie Kipp, president of the Partner’s auxiliary; Hadley Galt and Honey Rothermal, last year’s luncheon co-chairs; Carolyn Strickfaden, Stephanie and Travis Hollman, Keenan Delaney, JB Hayes and more.

Paige Flink, Executive Director, The Family Place, took the stage, thanking the Owner’s Box for donating the delicious buffets. She welcomed everyone with sincere thanks for their support, relating The Family Place had welcomed in two families just that evening and continues to serve so many more.

Lloyd Ward emphasized this luncheon also sends a message to men, announcing Don McPherson, former professional football player and activist working to stop violence against women, as the luncheon’s featured speaker. For more than 20 years, Don McPherson has used the power and appeal of sport to address complex social issues. McPherson has paralleled a highly decorated football career with cutting-edge work on vital and contemporary issues that impact the lives of every American. With testimony before the US Congress, appearances on national news, the Oprah Winfrey show and lectures across North America, McPherson has reached more than 1 million people.

Slated for Wednesday, September 19, the luncheon takes place at the Omni Dallas Hotel at 11:30 a.m. Underwriters and sponsors will be invited to a VIP reception prior to the luncheon.

The Texas Trailblazer Awards Luncheon is generally comprised of corporate sponsors, philanthropists, media, table hosts and accomplished men and women in the North Texas community. The event raises funds to support the comprehensive programs of The Family Place and ensure that life-saving services will be available to women victims and their innocent children for years to come.



Awards given at the luncheon are:

The Family Place Texas Trailblazer Award recognizes a local woman who has achieved significant success despite the obstacles she has faced along the way. She is a woman who has accomplished a "first" and opened the doors of opportunity for other women. She has made significant contributions either in her community, business or profession. No matter what her accomplishments, however, she is a woman who has blazed a trail for others to follow.


The Family Place Man of Influence Award recognizes a North Texan who is leading by example to make domestic violence a “community issue” rather than a “women’s issue.” Through his lifestyle, he is setting a standard of compassion, support and commitment that promotes healthy relationships.


The Family Place Real-Life Hero Award recognizes a man or woman who contributes to the quality of life in our community without reward or recognition. This individual embodies a positive spirit, and works tirelessly and humbly to help others. He or she demonstrates initiative and goes above and beyond the call of duty to make North Texas a better place.


The Family Place Youth Service Award and Scholarship recognizes students who are outstanding leaders in their high school communities. They have participated in The Family Place Students Be Project Program for a minimum of one year, acting as mentors to educate their peers about healthy relationships in an effort to prevent teen dating violence and sexual assault.


The Family Place Advocacy Award recognizes an organization that has played a vital role in furthering the mission of The Family Place to stop the suffering of women and children victims of family violence in North Texas. By providing generous financial and volunteer support and promoting awareness with employees, associates and peers, the Advocacy Award recipient is a strong voice speaking out for victims of family violence to improve our community’s response to their critical needs.

Nominations will be taken until June 12 for The Texas Trailblazer Award, Man of Influence Award and the Real-Life Hero Award. Visit the web site to download a nomination form: www.familyplace.org

Tickets for the luncheon begin at $125 each. Underwriting begins at $1,500. Visit the web site for details: www.familyplace.org

About The Family Place: It is the largest family violence service provider in the Dallas area. The Family Place reaches out to thousands of victims of family violence each year with award-winning programs that have kept women and children safe for 34 years through intervention, emergency shelter and crisis counseling services.

The Family Place Contact: Tess Nordick, Assistant Development Director. Direct Line: 214-443-7766. tenordick@familyplace.org