What Are the Holders of Hope Awards?

An annual December event recognizing community leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to inspiring and supporting the community, reflecting the belief that each of us can make a positive difference and be a Holder of Hope for one another.  These outstanding leaders are selected from six different areas of our community: 

• Business
• Government
• Health
• Education
• Entertainment
• Faith

This uplifting, semi-formal celebration includes inspiring stories, recognitions, community unity, and a shared commitment to building a future rooted in hope.

Past awardees

Previous Holders of Hope Award recipients include

• Dr. Sajish Jacob, medical doctor with USMD Medical Hospital.
• Dr. Dennis Wiles, Faith Leader
• Kobty Family, Business Owner
• Tony Tinderholt, Texas Representative
• Bryant Griffith, Community Leader
• Dr. Ignacio Nunez, Community Leader
• Gloria Pena, Community Leader
• Raul Gonzalez City of Arlington Councilman
• Andy Nguyen, Former Tarrant County Commissioner
• Cristina Zuniga, Radio Host with La Grande Radio.
• Carmenza Moreno, Community Leader and Business Owner.
• Adriana Lopez, Telemundo TV Producer and Anchor.
• Bishop Keith Ackerman, Faith Leader
• Mrs. Karen Williams, River Legacy Advocate.
• Richard Greene, Former City of Arlington Mayor
• Mary Tom Curnutt, Judge City of Arlington.
• Michael Jacobson, President and CEO for the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce
• Mauricio Galante City of Arlington Councilman
• Sonny Delfyette Radio Host with Air One
• Dr. Richard Urso medical doctor with Open Arms
• Codi Van Duzee Community Leader and Educator
• Charlie Kuthe Faith Leader
• Beatrice Silva Business Leader
• David Cook, Texas Rep
• John Ortiz Business Leader and Educator
• Dr. Yan Wei, medical doctor with Medical City Arlington

Nomination criteria: Awardees are selected based on two main criteria:

1. How they positively impact the community
2. How their work benefits the lives of others

Sponsorship Opportunities:

Hope Champion - $2,000 (Dinner sponsor)

• Premier logo placement on event materials
• 3 slideshow images rotating during program
• Speaking acknowledgment during the ceremony
• VIP seating for 8 guests
• Featured article in newsletter

Friend of Hope - $1,500 (Dinner sponsor)

• Logo on event signage & program
• 2 slideshow images rotating during program
• VIP seating for 6 guests

Community Builder - $1,000 (Plaque sponsor)

• Logo in program
• VIP seating for 4 guests

Encourager- $500 (Printing sponsor)

• Name listed in program
• VIP seating for 2 guests

Open Donation-50 +

• Preferred seating with ticket for 1
• Honorable mention

Your Impact

By sponsoring, you elevate leaders who uplift our community and empower others to follow their example. Together, we create a culture where hope thrives.

Community-wide event held during Mental Health Awareness Month, featuring leaders' stories, strategies, and encouragement. ( This event is community-wide event that offers an opportunity to connect with our local leaders and hear their personal stories and practical strategies that helped them overcome life's ups and downs. This event is held in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May and is filled with powerful stories from our city and community leaders.

Holders of Hope Awards:

Annual December event in partnership with former Mayor Jeff Williams. Recognizes exemplary leaders across business, government, entertainment, education, health, faith, and community sectors. 

The Holders of Hope Awards is presented in partnership with former Mayor Jeff Williams, whose Kindness Initiative has found roots and continuity through Positive Actions International. Each December, the Holders of Hope Awards honor exemplary leaders across business, government, entertainment, education, health, community and faith organizations who have demonstrated a commitment to inspiring and supporting the community. These honorees reflect the belief that each of us can make a positive difference and be a Holder of Hope for others.