The University of St. Thomas welcomes more than two-dozen local, faith-based nonprofits who will come together to network at “A Nonprofit Symposium” on Saturday, Aug. 24, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at UST’s state-of-the-art Center for Science and Health Professions located at 4110 Yoakum Blvd.

This gathering will give philanthropists and foundations an opportunity to learn more about the work these non-profits are doing in Houston in a panel discussion, breakout sessions, and exhibit area. UST President Dr. Richard Ludwick will present the opening remarks.

The nonprofits attending serve areas of education, social services, family and healthcare and include Magnificat House, Casa de Esperanza and CHRISTUS Foundation for HealthCare.

Houston Philanthropy Circle

The event coordinated by Houston Philanthropy Circle features noontime keynote speaker Deacon Larry Vaclavik, managing principal for nonprofit fundraising consultants Dini Spheris.

“The mission of the Houston Philanthropy Circle is to empower philanthropists with networking opportunities amongst their peers as well as to introduce nonprofits to this donor community,” Charlene O’Shea, HPC coordinator, philanthropist and symposium moderator, said. “We believe the Nonprofit Symposium will garner awareness and give exposure to 24 amazing nonprofits in our community.”

Houston is one of the Nation’s most Philanthropic Cities

According to a Houston Chronicle Nov. 2018 article, Houston is one of the nation’s most philanthropic cities with 28 key philanthropic families who have made charity part of their legacy.

The symposium underwriters include the Agee Family Foundation, Berthelot Family Foundation, Robert and Emily Clay, Hugh and Peggy Idstein, John and Charlene O’Shea Family Foundation, Joy and Paul Posoli and the Scanlan Foundation.

The Scanlan Foundation President Larry Massey, Jr., who serves on UST’s Board of Directors and who helped plan the symposium, will kick off the event with a welcome message. The Scanlan Foundation supports Catholic religious, charitable and educational institutions in Texas since 1947. The Scanlan Family are early benefactors in Houston’s history. They helped found the art museum and charitable initiatives like the Catholic Women’s Club.