Event Date: October 23, 2024
Location: River Oaks Country Club
Event: Gala
Beneficiary: Houston Hospice
No. in attendance: 270
Money raised: $300,000
Honorary Chairs: Chris Knapp and Liz Winslow
Chairpersons: Jenny Kempner and Isabel Lummis
Honorees: Vivie and Chris O’Sullivan
Florals: H-E-B
Entertainment: Rice University Shepherd School of Music
Emcee: Jim Reeder
Photography: Priscilla Dickson and Jacob Power
“It Takes a Village” at Houston Hospice 26th Annual Community Spirit Award Dinner
For 45 years, Houston Hospice has been part of the fabric and a blessed part of the Houston community at large. Chairs Isabel Lummis and Jenny Kempner and Honorary Chairs Chris Knapp and Liz Winslow brought together more than 270 of Houston’s most prominent leaders and philanthropists at River Oaks Country Club to celebrate enduring and loyal Houston Hospice givers Vivie and Chris O’Sullivan. This 26th annual dinner was a resounding success as over $300,000 was raised to continue the compassionate end-of-life care for patients and their families in 13 counties throughout Southeast Texas.
As honorees, the O’Sullivans were a perfect choice. The organization holds deep meaning for them. They were instrumental in the master garden plan for the historic gardens of Holcombe House and its inaugural holiday lighting, but they also each entrusted the organization with the care of their loved ones. Through their generosity, the O’Sullivans created a tranquil place where patients and families can experience the peaceful power of nature. Chris Knapp, Vivie O’Sullivan’s brother, eloquently said, “The transparency with which Vivie and Chris navigate and respond to our shared human condition, our joys and our sorrows, is an ongoing gift.”
The evening was replete with memorable sights and sounds, including beautiful fall floral centerpieces from H-E-B and stirring sounds from Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music students. Event emcee Jim Reeder guided guests through a delightful program and successful raffle with exceptional and unique offerings, including an Ultimate Houston Sports Fan Package, a VIP Art & Fine Dining Experience, and a Sharp Shooters & Style Package.
As Vivie so beautifully stated, “It takes a village and I’m so grateful to be a part of this village. We go above and beyond because we care and want to do what we can to help others.” All those who have graced its doors for the past four and one-half decades echo this sentiment.
In the Social Scene (not previously mentioned): Jay Kempner, Mike Stude, Chris Knapp, Liz Winslow, Sue White, Tami Jorden, Carolyn Watson, Sally Rice and Rob Donnell, Eric Nevil, Kelli and Eddy Blanton, Cabrina and Steven Owsley, Anne and Bob Baillio, Lan and Adele Bentsen, Al Gatmaitan, Aida Matic, Judson Robinson, III, Carolyn Watson, Tami Jordan
