Residents, businesses and nonprofits have until noon on Friday, Sept. 4 to nominate someone who has made a lasting mark on The Woodlands for the 2027 class of Hometown Heroes.
Interfaith of The Woodlands opened the nomination window Wednesday, Aug. 5, continuing a tradition that dates to 1999, when the program launched as part of The Woodlands' 25th anniversary celebration. Since then, 178 individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations have received the honor, according to Woodlands Online.
Nominees can be individuals, businesses or nonprofit organizations. Criteria include a history of volunteerism, leadership in the community, positive recognition for contributions and consistent dedication to causes that reflect community values such as family, education, arts and culture, and environmental consciousness.
A committee of past Hometown Heroes reviews all nominations independently. Selectees for the 2027 class will be announced in early November.
Honorees will be celebrated at the 2027 Celebration of Excellence Gala on Friday, Feb. 26, 2027, at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, 1601 Lake Robbins Dr. The annual event doubles as Interfaith's largest fundraiser. The February 2025 gala drew more than 600 guests and raised nearly $650,000 for programs including food assistance, rent and utility help, senior services, job training and healthcare through Interfaith Community Clinic, according to Hello Woodlands.
The 2025 honoree class included Cathy Brady, Jim Rapp, Jim Wendt, Nick Wolda, Truluck's The Woodlands and YES to YOUTH.
Interfaith President and CEO Missy Herndon has led the organization since 2016. When the 2025 class was announced in November 2024, Herndon described The Woodlands as "filled with remarkable individuals who, through their selfless service, make The Woodlands a better place to live, work, play, and pray."
Nomination forms are available at woodlandsinterfaith.org/event/celebration-of-excellence-gala.
Upcoming community dates:
- Sept. 4 — Hometown Heroes nomination deadline (noon)
- Early November — 2027 honorees announced
- Feb. 26, 2027 — Celebration of Excellence Gala, The Woodlands Waterway Marriott
