The Community Storehouse Board of Directors has named Ken Goodgames the next Chief Executive Officer effective February 14, 2022. As demand for services continues to rise in the northeast Tarrant County area, Community Storehouse recognizes the need to anticipate and meet future needs of at-risk children in the area. Goodgames brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience and an authentic, collaborative approach to facilitate innovation and cultural transformation within an organization. 

Community Storehouse is a children’s charity in northeast Tarrant County focused on closing the gap between opportunity and achievement in the Keller, Northwest, Argyle and Carroll Independent School Districts. The organization is described as first responders to any issue that threatens to interfere with a child’s success in school and provides critical services to help close the gap in literacy, food insecurity, and support during seasonal times when families are often stretched to provide basic care. Community Storehouse recognizes that early education is critical to life-long success and breaking the cycle of generational poverty.

“After conducting an extensive internal and external search, we have identified an extremely talented individual to lead Community Storehouse. Ken’s experience, vision and servant leadership style will allow the organization to expand our outreach to the underserved children in our community. We are excited to have Ken on our team and can’t wait to see the continued evolution of Community Storehouse under his leadership,” stated John Milligan, Community Storehouse Board Chair. 

Prior to joining Community Storehouse, Goodgames founded the Grassroots Data Institute specializing in nonprofit consulting to leverage data and analytics to improve overall performance outcomes. Grassroots Data Institute evolved from his role as President & CEO of the Community Council in Dallas, a social services agency that focuses on helping families move from surviving to thriving. He was the driving force in earning the Community Services Block Grant focused on poverty alleviation. Goodgames is the visionary CEO behind the re-branding and organizational turn-around of Consumer Credit Counseling Services of Greater Dallas, now known as Transformance, Inc. Additionally, his experience includes roles of Vice President Product Development at American Red Cross and Vice President Sales and Operations of American Heart Association. He graduated from the Dallas Baptist University with a BA in Business Administration.

"I am honored to serve Community Storehouse as its new Chief Executive. I feel fortunate to be working in partnership with the Board and the Community Storehouse team to find new ways to continue growing and expanding our mission to benefit underserved children and families,” stated Ken Goodgames.

As CEO, Goodgames will work closely with staff, volunteers and the Community Storehouse board to ensure the organization can continue to adapt to serve low-income children in northeast Tarrant County. One of his first acts as CEO will oversee Community Storehouse’s annual concert and dinner featuring Clay Walker, a country music icon.  He will also manage the continued evolution of Community Storehouse’s education and nutrition programs. 

To learn more about Community Storehouse, visit communitystorehouse.org.

As an extension of the Junior League of Collin County’s (JLCC) mission as an “organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers,” the Collin County Women of Influence Awards celebrates volunteerism by recognizing influential women volunteers who live, work, or serve in Collin County. Proceeds from the event support the charitable works of the Junior League of Collin County.  The 2021 reception will be held June 10 at Verona Villa in Frisco from 6:00pm to 8:00pm to recognize the winners from both 2020 and 2021.  The community is invited to attend to celebrate the collective impact of these volunteers.  Rebecca Silvestri of Local Profile will serve as the Master of Ceremonies.  JLCC is grateful for the ongoing sponsorship from the corporate community including Audi McKinney - a Sewell Automotive Group, Market Street, Krupa Downs Law, and Batch Bakery.   

Below are a list of the honorees and category descriptions:

2021 Female Business Leader of the Year: Pamela Zeigler-Petty, PZP BizConnect

2021 Newcomer of the Year: Ananda Kripa

2021 Non-profit Professional of the Year: Jessica Weidman

2021 Volunteer of the Year: Mimi Conner

2021 Young Professional of the Year: Joyce King

2021 Legacy Award: Honorable Florence Shapiro

2020 Female Business Leader of the Year: Irum Rashid-Jones, Electrician On Call  

2020 Newcomer of the Year: Ashley Gentry

2020 Non-profit Professional of the Year: Barbara Green

2020 Volunteer of the Year: Almas Muscatwalla

2020 Young Professional of the Year: Megan Nguyen-Trinh, Bank of America

2020 Legacy Award: Rebecca Egelston Caso

Female Business Leader of the Year:  Recognizing a female business leader who not only supports the non-profit sector through her consistent commitment to her community, but who has distinguished herself in the organization, her profession, and among her peers.  She epitomizes the values of her community and represents the best of who we are as women and leaders.  She is committed to making her community a priority for her department or organization.

Newcomer of the Year:  This award celebrates a recent addition to the Collin County volunteer community.  This is someone who has recently located or someone who has made a significant difference in volunteerism in a short amount of time. 

Non-profit Professional of the Year: This award celebrates a paid employee of a non-profit who is a bold, well-known leader that others choose to emulate.  The recipient will have a proven track record of growth, success, and influence in both her profession and her community. 

Volunteer of the Year:  This award recognizes one outstanding female adult for her valuable and selfless commitment to extraordinary hands-on volunteer service, which strengthens the entire Collin County community.  This recipient’s tireless qualities embody the mission of JLCC and the spirit of volunteerism.

Young Professional of the Year:  Recognizing a young professional woman who has already made, or is on track to make, significant contributions to her profession and her community. This recipient’s spark and tenacity is exemplified in her professional work as well as in her efforts as a volunteer and impactful community member.           

Legacy Award:  This award recognizes a woman who has demonstrated superior leadership and success in the non-profit section over many years.  She has made a life-long commitment to improving Collin County by connecting others to a larger purpose, inspiring commitment, boosting resolve, and helping her colleagues and community members find deeper purpose in their lives through volunteering.

Program Contact:  Kim Schroeder, Community Awards Event Committee Chair, communityawards@jlcollincounty.org

ABOUT THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF COLLIN COUNTY:  Over 1,000 women strong, connected by values of service, leadership and respect, the Junior League of Collin County is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. This year the Junior League of Collin County will touch lives and forever change them through outreach and support of over 110 local agencies and 12 community projects and initiatives. For membership or to contribute, please visit www.jlcollincounty.org.

As the Junior League of Collin County prepares ‘Neath the Wreath Virtual Holiday Gift Market, there are even more ways to get involved and support the critical needs of the community. Admission to shop is free however consider a donation of the $15 that otherwise would have been a daily ticket price, purchase raffle tickets and bid on the silent auction all from your phone, tablet or desktop – this year ‘Neath the Wreath is virtual and mobile! Volunteers have worked tirelessly to create the beloved ‘Neath the Wreath magic and are grateful to the generous sponsors Children’s Health, Market Street, Audi McKinney, and Callbox Storage as well as the many individual donors who contributed to the raffle and silent auction. All proceeds benefit community impact projects of the Junior League of Collin County. 

SHOP

Over 100+ merchants are participating in the Junior League of Collin County ‘Neath the Wreath Virtual Gift Market. Many are shopper favorites alongside several new merchants. Shoppers will find home décor, ladies’ fashion, gifts, holiday, children’s clothing and toys, gourmet foods, jewelry, and more. From the merchant website and app, you can shop from the comfort of home as well as purchase raffle tickets with your choice of 3 experiences and bid on a variety of silent auction baskets full of goodies to make your time home festive!  Watch for tips on how to navigate the ‘Neath the Wreath app.

RAFFLE

The ‘Neath the Wreath raffle features the choice of 3 amazing experiences including: A Glamping Getaway to Broken Bow, Oklahoma; one year of fresh floral from Market Street; or a 3-night stay at the luxurious La Cantera Resort & Spa in the Hill Country. Tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100 and can be purchased here. Bid on just one or all three!

SILENT AUCTION

The ‘Neath the Wreath virtual silent auction is live November 13-14, 2020. Register to bid, find your favorite packages, bid high and bid often! The complete list of items will be featured at neaththewreath.org. Bidders will find a variety of packages that are perfect to make being home more festive or great to share with friends and family as gifts.

Cheers to a Stocked Bar Cart: Cozy up with a cocktail from your fully stocked bar cart, complete with multiple liquors, festive accessories, and a set of etched cocktail glasses.

Grillin’ & Chillin’ Tailgates:  Bring the game experience to life at home. Fire up the grill and tailgate in the backyard with everything you need: skewers, basters, planks, sauces and rubs, and a football-shaped cutting board.

Sports Fans:  Step up your tailgate with a portable grill, and sports memorabilia, including autographed footballs, Stanley Cup hockey stick, mini helmet, and other memorabilia.

Wine Not:  Bid on everything from wine baskets to private wine tastings from Total Wines, William Chris Vineyards, Wild Child Wine Flight, and so much more! 

It's Amore:  Make pizzas like a pro in your own backyard with an Italia Artisan Pizza Oven. Don't have the space for a pizza oven or want others to do the cooking? Gourmet food experiences are a-plenty with baskets and gift cards!

Art with Love:  Bid on original pieces of art from Junior League of Collin County members, Sheri Steele and Donna Ivy, featuring paintings in shades of blue or neutral colors or dreamy watercolors. 

A little something:  Treat yourself with custom necklaces, jewelry collections, or a Deluxe 10-Piece Collection from Rustic Cuff.

Keep the Kids Busy: Any of the kid-oriented packages will be winners with baskets from Crayola, birthday party packages, book collections, summer camps and even a Whataburger Bird House.

Mom's Night Off: Take a night off and indulge Mom with one of multiple pampering baskets featuring spa-at-home, cozy blankets, books, candles, and more!

Deck the Halls: ‘Neath the Wreath kicks off the holiday season, so we’ve combined our annual market favorites into festive packages like Cocoa for Santa, Christmas Cookie Baking, gorgeous décor, and gourmet treats.

Kiss the Cook:  No matter who is cooking, the kitchen is center to the home. Freshen up your space with classic canisters, serving trays, tea towels, baking supplies, mouth-watering cookbook collections, and more. 

Save the date for ‘Neath the Wreath 2021, which will take place November 11-14, 2021.

www.neaththewreath.org

‘Neath the Wreath Holiday Gift Market is almost here! Thursday, November 7 through Sunday, November 10 this 24-year holiday tradition will deck the halls of the Plano Event Center. Purchase your tickets for ‘Neath the Wreath now at participating Collin County Tom Thumb locations or online at neaththewreath.org. Not only does your ticket allow you to shop ‘Neath the Wreath, but funds raised at ‘Neath the Wreath support Collin County and the community impact projects of the Junior League of Collin County.

With over 125 unique merchants and over 80,00 square feet of fabulous shopping, we wanted to give you a few insider tips to optimizing your ‘Neath the Wreath experience this year!

-Be the First to Shop!
Want to be the first to shop our 2019 ‘Neath the Wreath merchants? Join us on Wednesday, November 6^th for our Ladies Night Out Preview Party complete with shopping, sipping, socializing and Santa! Purchase your ticket now at neaththewreath.org

-Become a ‘Neath the Wreath Insider
Make sure to subscribe to our emails to receive ‘Neath the Wreath happenings at neaththewreath.org. Not only will we give you a heads up on ticket sales, events and merchants, we will also let you know best times to shop!

-Friday Night Lights – Open Late

To accommodate everyone’s busy fall schedule, ‘Neath the Wreath is open on Friday, November 8 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Get ahead of the weekend rush and shop Friday night. 

-Holiday Flare Meets Comfort
Whether you’re rocking athleisure or your latest Holiday sweater, ‘Neath the Wreath is full of lots of great merchants so make sure to wear comfortable shoes, so you can shop all day long! Dressing rooms are minimal so if you are interested in trying on the latest fashions from our merchants, make sure to dress accordingly (we recommend leggings and sports bra).

-Be like Santa. Make a list, check it twice.
Make sure no gift is left behind! Our 125+ merchants are carefully curated to bring you the best in holiday and home décor, clothing and accessories, unique gifts, jewelry, children’s items, craft foods and must-have items you will not find anywhere else! 

-Shop ‘Til You Drop and Store Your Loot
Each ‘Neath the Wreath shopper will receive a commemorative shopping tote sponsored by Ebby Halliday to stash your purchases in. Once you fill it up, don’t worry! Bag Check is available, so you can continue shopping all day long.

-Cash, Card, Swipe or Tap

Our merchants come from all over the nation so consider contacting your bank or credit card companies in advance. Most merchants take credit cards and cash. ATMs are available on-site at market.

-Did someone say samples?
Do not fret about fuel or hydration – a full array of concession items is available during market, including mimosas, bonus! There are also over 20 gourmet food merchants and tasty samples available on almost every aisle! 

-Do you need a BOOMERANG?

Sometimes one day is not enough and you want to do it all again.  ‘Neath the Wreath offers a boomerang ticket.  Before you leave, present your ticket and it can become valid for a second day for only $10. 

-Don’t let parking be a pain!
Self-parking and valet parking are available to all our ‘Neath the Wreath shoppers all weekend long. Valet parking is available for $20 and can be accessed from the Spring Creek entrance of the Plano Event Center. You can also bump up your step count by utilizing our self-parking lot off Jupiter Road.

-Make it social!
Whether you’re bringing your girlfriends, co-workers or family, make sure to share your ‘Neath the Wreath experience with us by tagging us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. @NeaththeWreath @jlccntw #neaththewreath.

We hope these tips help you make the most of your ‘Neath the Wreath experience! We can’t wait for you to experience the festive “Merry Texmas!” theme at our 24th annual ‘Neath the Wreath Holiday Gift Market. Over 120 volunteers have worked more than 10 months and over 2,000 hours to create ‘Neath the Wreath and, we can’t wait to welcome you!

Want to be part of something special like Junior League and ‘Neath the Wreath?  Learn more about the Junior League of Collin County and membership opportunities by visiting our table at ‘Neath the Wreath. The Junior League of Collin County welcomes women of all ages and backgrounds to collaborate for a better community. 

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/NeaththeWreath

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/neaththewreath

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jlccntw

At the heart of the Junior League of Collin County (JLCC) is volunteerism.  Since their inception 42 years ago, JLCC has contributed over 750,000 volunteer hours to nonprofits serving the Collin County community.   

To celebrate and encourage volunteerism throughout the Collin County region, JLCC hosts the annual Excellence in Volunteer Service Awards to honor local volunteers and organizations who are changing our community for good.   Held at Aristide in McKinney, Christal Howard of Community Impact served as the Master of Ceremonies and Dr. John Siburt of CitySquare was the keynote speaker.  Special guests included McKinney Mayor Fuller and Congressman Van Taylor’s office who provided additional recognition to the honorees.  Sewell Audi of McKinney served as the title sponsor of the luncheon and was joined by the following additional partners: Gittings, Market Street, Bliss Body & Barre and Community Impact. 

2019 Collin County Excellence in Volunteer Service Award honorees:

SRS Distribution & Raise the Roof Foundation, Community Business Partner of the Year

Chloe Frohock, Youth Volunteer of the Year nominated by Heritage Farmstead Museum

Trisha Cunningham, Nonprofit Professional of the Year, North Texas Food Bank

My Possibilities, Nonprofit Organization of the Year

QC Stone and The Source of Hope, Junior League of Collin County Spirit Award

ABOUT THE HONOREES

The Youth Volunteer of the Year recognizes an outstanding student who makes a difference in Collin County and serves as an inspiration to their community through their volunteer and leadership activities.  Honoree, Chloe Frohock has given over 2,500 hours of volunteer service in the past eight years to Heritage Farmstead Museum.  She has helped with summer camps, special events and children’s programs.  Her community outreach has included visits to elementary schools, appearances on Good Morning Texas, as well as getting involved in local city government.  She was instrumental in inspiring the staff at the Heritage Farmstead Museum to begin a Jr. FFA program in 2014.  She has devoted herself to changing the community by volunteering her time and creativity to the Heritage Farmstead Museum.

The Community Business Partner of the Year is awarded to a company that is committed to making their community a priority for their organization through partnerships with nonprofits and active employee volunteerism.  The 2019 honoree is SRS Distribution and SRS Raise the Roof Foundation for its support of countless homeless, military and disaster-affected families during critical times of need by partnering with organizations like The Samaritan Inn and CASA of Collin County through hands-on volunteering, donation drives and fundraising.

New for 2019, the Nonprofit Professional of the Year recognizes a paid employee of a Collin County nonprofit organization who exhibits excellence in their leadership role and a passion for their organization’s mission.   Honoree, Trisha Cunningham is CEO of the North Texas Food Bank, a $130 million organization focused on eradicating hunger in North Texas by providing families access to nutritious food.  Last year alone, the North Texas Food Bank provided access to nearly 72 million nutritious meals, distributed over 21 million pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables and hosted over 40,000 volunteers.

The 2019 Nonprofit Organization of the Year honoree is My Possibilities which serves over 650 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) every week. Their mission is to pursue the full, untapped possibilities of Hugely Important People, also known as HIPsters, and provide them with a path to inclusion and a meaningful life.  Their programs teach HIPsters how to live, work, and participate in their communities.   As a pioneering leader in vocational education and job placement for adults with IDD, this agency’s programs are setting the standard for programs that move adults with IDD towards greater independence.

The Collin County Volunteer of the Year celebrates an individual whose extraordinary hands-on volunteer service at nonprofits strengthens the Collin County community.  Trish Patterson is a driving force empowering others through collaboration to work together to support a collective mission.  She is recognized for her recent contribution to The Source of Hope’s Holiday Feeding which served over 7,000 families in 2018. 

Each year an individual or organization stands out among the nominees and is deserving of the Junior League of Collin County Spirit Award that recognizes a significant gift of leadership and stewardship to many over the years and represents a pillar of the volunteer community.   In 2009, this honoree, QC Stone founded a nonprofit organization, The Source of Hope, with a mission to empower low income cosmetology students by providing assistance through educational programs, grants, and scholarships.  The mission has evolved to include helping families in transition become financially stable, independent households.  In addition, they provide a source of hope to the local community with free or reduced cosmetic services and various social outreach programs.  Examples of services include custom wig creation for children receiving chemotherapy, free cosmetic treatments for adults to help them during their interview process, and serving hot meals to thousands on a monthly basis.