Mum's the Word! Inside ‘Barrier-Free’ Summer Camp’s Million-Dollar High School Heyday

Mum's the Word! Inside ‘Barrier-Free’ Summer Camp’s Million-Dollar High School Heyday

Ginger Bertrand, Susan Walker, Sherwin Gill and Pat Prior Sorrells

THE JOYS OF summer camp are the makings of childhood memories, and contribute to a sense of self-worth and confidence — a fact that is doubly true for those who attend Camp For All, a Houston nonprofit that runs a “barrier-free” camp for children and adults with special needs in the Hill Country town of Burton.


More than 500 supporters, decked out in nostalgic high school-themed attire, attended Camp For All’s “Homecoming” gala at The Revaire. The evening, emceed by Emmy-winning journalist Richelle Carey, included a live auction and remarks by Andrew Simms of The Arc of Greater Houston, who discussed his experiences living with autism and how transformative an experience like Camp For All can be.

The gala also honored Laurie and Jack Maddox, who were dubbed the Homecoming Queen and King thanks to their ongoing support of the organization, and included rousing entertainment by Plush Party Band. The night garnered an impressive $1.1 million.

This year, Camp For All will once again welcome around 10,000 campers — who attend for free! — to its 206-acre site, where a roster of favorite camp activities and a compassionate staff await.

Jack and Laurie Maddox

Gary and Cindy Gerson

Heath and Jennifer Sechrist

Toni Miller, Allison Leibman and Jennifer Zach

Les and Vaughn Clark and John Hastings

Susan Wilson and Barbie Hermis

Louis and Marilyn Mogas

Melinda and Matt Mogas

Stacy and Rickie Duke

Mike and Diann Lewter, Mandy and Philip LeBlanc

Stacie and Rod Pitts

Roman and April McIntosh

Parties
Leadership in Action: Clothiers Murry and Karen Penner Celebrate Family Business’ 50-Year Anny

Murry & Karen Penner, Owners, M PENNER

How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.

Keep Reading Show less

Lynn Wyatt and Steve Wyatt

IT'S BEEN A century since what’s now known as the Museum of Fine Arts Houston debuted, and the society set celebrated the 100-year milestone in high style. Some 375 guests turned out for the 2024 Grand Gala Ball at the museum, raising $5.5 million in total, including Nancy and Rich Kinder’s $1 million gift and another hefty gift from J. Venn Leeds.

Keep Reading Show less
Art+Culture

The brunch bread basket at Rumi's Kitchen beckons.

NEW HOT SPOTS in Montrose, a happy-hour shakeup on Post Oak, and supreme sushi offerings are making headlines this week. Read on for more tasty tidbits!

Keep Reading Show less
Food