Community Heroes Luncheon Highlights Growth, Service, and Future Community Investment
Community leaders gathered to celebrate outstanding service while also highlighting a forward-looking vision to expand resources, strengthen partnerships, and deepen investment in the region’s future.
SEGUIN, TEXAS – Community Council of South Central Texas proudly hosted its 2nd Annual Community Heroes Luncheon in Seguin, Texas, bringing together community leaders, partner organizations, and distinguished guests to celebrate the spirit of service and recognize individuals and organizations making a lasting impact across South Central and West Texas.
The event featured a proclamation for Community Action Month, read by Seguin Mayor Donna Dodgen, highlighting the importance of community action programs and partnerships that strengthen families and promote self-sufficiency throughout the region for 61 years.
Attendees also heard a moving keynote address from Seguin City Manager Steve Parker, who spoke about the importance of collaboration, civic responsibility, and investing in community-based solutions that create lasting change.
A powerful highlight of the luncheon included compelling stories of resilience from CCSCT clients who shared how they have overcome barriers and achieved stability, growth, and self-sufficiency through the support of CCSCT programs and services.
Executive Director Bobby Deike also shared CCSCT’s three-year vision, highlighting plans to purchase the former Mosaic Church campus in Seguin. The proposed site would serve as a centralized Community Action Center designed to expand services, strengthen CCSCT’s community presence, and provide a shared space for partners and outreach events. Planned uses include a Senior Citizen Day Activity Center, program and administrative offices, and flexible community space for meetings, engagement, and future growth, creating expanded opportunities not only for CCSCT, but for the broader community it serves.
The luncheon also included the presentation of the 2026 Community Hero Awards, honoring outstanding contributions to community service. The honorees were as follows:
Elaine Bennett – A healthcare executive and CEO of Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation, Bennett has helped secure over $18 million in funding to support community health initiatives. She is also a dedicated community leader recognized for her work addressing food insecurity and her service on multiple local and state boards.
Hellen Martinez de Morales – A Texas community leader and advocate, Martinez de Morales serves as President-Elect of the Legislative Ladies Club at the Texas Capitol and Board Chair of the South Texas All Abilities Center in Eagle Pass, Texas. She champions inclusive services, protects vulnerable populations, and advocates for legislation focused on child safety and environmental preservation.
Walmart Distribution Center New Braunfels #6016 – For more than 25 years, the distribution center has supported CCSCT Head Start families through generous, personalized giving and meaningful holiday traditions. Employees consistently create joyful experiences that bring comfort, dignity, and lasting memories to children and families.
“The Community Heroes Luncheon is about recognizing the people and partners who turn compassion into action,” said Executive Director Bobby Deike. “Their work reflects the very best of what community can achieve when we come together in service of others.”
The event underscored CCSCT’s continued commitment to community action, collaboration, and service, honoring those who help build stronger families and a stronger region.
In addition, CCSCT would like to thank the generous sponsors that made this event possible: H- Bar Trucking, Stockdale, TX; Guadalupe Regional Medical Center; TXU Energy; Frontier Restoration; and BKCW.
Since 1965, CCSCT has remained committed to empowering vulnerable families and individuals across 31 counties throughout South Central and West Texas by eliminating barriers and promoting self-sufficiency through innovative programs and strong community partnerships.
For more information about CCSCT and its services, please visit www.ccsct.org or follow along on social media at https://linktr.ee/ccsct_cares.
In photo: Joe Rea, Board Member; Rosa Guzman, Board Member; Patricia Harsin, Walmart Distribution Center; Gary Hastings, Walmart Distribution Center; Elain Bennett, GRMF; and Board Member, Jill Atkinson.
