Unite for Good on the 25^th Anniversary of 9/11

This year marks the 25^th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, a moment that evinced our nation's resilience and revealed the extraordinary power of Americans coming together in service. Across Texas and the country, 9/11 Day of Service has become a powerful tradition of turning remembrance into action, honoring those we lost by strengthening our communities. As a proud partner in this national effort, we invite Texas nonprofits, volunteers, businesses, schools, and faith-based & community organizations to help make this milestone a meaningful celebration of compassion and service. The 25^th anniversary initiative aims to inspire millions of Americans to serve and reignite the spirit of unity that emerged in the days following September 11. Here's how you can get involved in the month ahead:

As we reflect on the past 25 years, we are reminded that service remains one of the most powerful ways stand against hatred and build stronger, more connected communities. Whether you organize a project, recruit volunteers, host a gathering, or lend a helping hand at a meal-pack event, your participation helps carry forward a legacy of hope, kindness, and shared purpose.

This month, we were thrilled to announce $29.3 million in 2026-2027 AmeriCorps Texas funding to engage 2,775 AmeriCorps Volunteers in service across the state! Through AmeriCorps, Texans are stepping forward to support students, families, disaster survivors, public lands, nonprofits, and local communities while gaining skills and experience that can shape a lifetime of service and career impact. Individuals interested in serving can search and apply for AmeriCorps opportunities at AmeriCorps.gov/Serve.

One year after the devastating Central Texas floods of July 2025, we continue to stand alongside the communities, families, and local leaders whose lives were forever changed by the disaster. While the road to recovery remains long, we are proud to share the release of our one-year Progress Report, highlighting the impact of the Central Texas Flood Recovery Fund and the collective generosity that has helped communities rebuild. The report details how charitable contributions have been invested in locally driven recovery efforts and also recognizes the extraordinary donors whose generosity made this progress possible.

We invite you to explore the report, learn more about the impact of this collective effort, and join us in thanking the many partners who continue to make long-term recovery possible across Central Texas.

As Texas communities responded to yet another brutal round of flooding last week, our Rebuild Texas Fund activated in support of Summer 2026 Flood Recovery to prepare for recovery efforts across affected regions. Coming just one year after the historic floods of July 4, 2025, this new fund will help communities address urgent needs today while continuing to invest in long-term resilience. Because damage assessments are still underway and needs continue to emerge, early contributions will help ensure resources are available where they are needed most as recovery efforts unfold.

Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are available now for the 2027 Texas Nonprofit Summit, the premier statewide gathering of nonprofit leaders and community changemakers. Centered on the theme Partners in Purpose: Shaping What Comes Next, the conference will bring together more than 400 leaders from across Texas to explore innovative ideas, strengthen partnerships, and advance solutions that help communities thrive.

Sponsoring the Texas Nonprofit Summit is an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to strengthening Texas communities while building meaningful connections with nonprofit decision-makers, funders, and sector leaders. Sponsors receive year-round visibility and engagement opportunities through event marketing, the conference mobile app, exhibitor experiences, and interactive networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and shared impact.

We invite organizations, foundations, and businesses that believe in the power of the nonprofit sector to join us in shaping what comes next for Texas. Learn more about available opportunities or sign up now as a sponsor to help make this important statewide convening possible.

The OneStar AmeriCorps VISTA Project is currently recruiting individuals to serve with nonprofits across Texas, helping build organizational capacity through projects focused on fundraising, volunteer engagement, communications, partnership development, and other critical initiatives. These service opportunities provide a valuable pathway into nonprofit and public service careers, allowing emerging professionals to gain hands-on experience while making a meaningful impact in their communities.

AmeriCorps VISTA strengthens the ability of nonprofits to address local challenges and expand their reach, creating lasting benefits long after their service term ends. We encourage nonprofit leaders, educators, workforce partners, and community advocates to share these opportunities with students, recent graduates, career changers, and others seeking a purpose-driven professional experience.

The Strong Families Tax Credit Program is now accepting applications from eligible Texas nonprofits seeking certification to receive designated charitable contributions through this new statewide initiative. Created by the Texas Legislature, the program encourages private-sector investment in organizations that strengthen families by promoting self-sufficiency, stability, workforce participation, and fatherhood engagement. Certified nonprofits will be eligible to receive contributions from businesses participating in the program and claiming a franchise tax credit.

The Texas Comptroller is scheduled to launch the donor reservation system on Monday, August 3, enabling businesses to begin reserving available tax credits for qualifying contributions. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for certification now to position their organizations for potential funding opportunities as the program launches.

We are seeking a full-time Volunteer Texas Program Officer to lead our statewide volunteer engagement initiatives, support youth service programs, coordinate volunteer recognition efforts, and strengthen partnerships that advance service across Texas. This exciting role is ideal for a collaborative professional with experience working with schools, nonprofits, volunteers, or community-based programs who is passionate about expanding opportunities for Texans to serve. Help shape the future of volunteerism in Texas and join a team dedicated to building stronger communities through service!

We are seeking two AmeriCorps VISTA Leaders to help support and strengthen our statewide OneStar AmeriCorps VISTA Project network serving communities across Texas. Opportunities are available in Communication & Engagement and Training & Resource Generation, with responsibilities that include mentoring AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteers, supporting recruitment and training efforts, and developing resources that enhance member success. Eligible applicants must have completed a full term of AmeriCorps or Peace Corps service and be ready to take the next step in service leadership.

As we reflect on this year’s Independence Day celebrations, we are reminded that the story of America is shaped not only by historic moments, but by the everyday actions of people who serve, connect, and strengthen their communities. Earlier this month, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence offered an opportunity to honor our shared history while looking ahead with hope and pride for what we can accomplish together. Across Texas, volunteers, nonprofits, and community leaders continue to carry forward the values of service, compassion, and civic engagement that help our communities thrive. Throughout this milestone year, we invite you to celebrate by getting involved and volunteering in Texas communities to build a stronger future for all Texans. Read our latest blog post to discover ways you can celebrate this historic anniversary through service and community action.

Texas Demographic Conference
May 21, Austin

Points of Light Conference
Jun 24-26, Washington DC

When Communities Need Us Most: Empowering AmeriCorps Partners to Lead in Times Crisis
May 27-28, Washington, DC

Lunch & Learn with Nonprofit Leadership Center at Angelina College
Jun 30, Lufkin

AAFCS-Texas Affiliate Annual Conference
Jul 16-18, Austin

The Reimagining Service 2035 initiative is creating a roadmap to reimagine volunteerism in America by making service easier, more meaningful, and more accessible for everyone while supporting the nonprofits and community organizations that rely on volunteers. Nonprofit leaders, volunteer managers, community organizations, and civic partners are encouraged to explore this national strategy and use the downloadable quick guides to consider how they can help build a stronger culture of service and engagement in their communities.

Presented by Points of Light

This latest annual report on philanthropy reveals that charitable giving reached a record $617.2 billion in 2025, surpassing the $600 billion mark for the first time. The report provides insights into giving trends, donor behavior, and emerging opportunities that can help nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, board members, and philanthropists strengthen their strategies and plan for the future. With philanthropy continuing to grow nationwide, this annual resource offers valuable context for organizations working to expand their impact and build long-term sustainability.

Presented by Giving USA

Wed, Jul 29-Fri, Jul 31
Alpine
Designed for rural nonprofit leaders, community partners, and funders across West Texas, this gathering creates space for meaningful relationships, practical learning, and conversations about strengthening rural communities. Participants will gain new connections, resources, and ideas to help their organizations grow and thrive.

Presented by Nonprofit Management Center of Permian Basin

Wed, Aug 19
Virtual
Connect with disaster response partners and learn how organizations across Texas are strengthening coordination before, during, and after emergencies. This opportunity is designed for nonprofits, volunteer organizations, and community partners interested in increasing collaboration, visibility, and collective impact in disaster response.

Presented by Texas VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster)

Wed, Aug 19
Nominations due Tue, Aug 28
Celebrate innovative approaches to protecting Texas communities and learn from organizations advancing sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community solutions. Nonprofit leaders, community organizations, and environmental partners are encouraged to submit nominations and gain inspiration from proven practices and connect with others working toward a healthier Texas.

Presented by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Thu, Aug 27-Thu, Sep 17
North Texas
Prepare your organization to participate in one of the nation’s largest community-wide giving events and engage supporters in new ways. North Texas nonprofit professionals can access tools and resources to strengthen fundraising efforts, expand community connections, and maximize generosity for their missions.

Presented by Communities Foundation of Texas

Wed, Sep 9-Thu, Sep 10
Rockport
Fundraising professionals, nonprofit leaders, and board members can strengthen their skills through practical learning, emerging trends, and peer connections focused on advancing philanthropy and organizational impact. Participants will gain strategies they can apply to build stronger relationships and support sustainable missions.

Presented by Association of Fundraising Professionals TX, Coastal Bend Chapter

Tue, Sep 22
Boerne
Spend the day learning from respected leaders, exchanging ideas with peers, discovering innovative solutions to today’s nonprofit challenges and building relationships that will strengthen your leadership and help shape the future of our Texas Hill Country communities. Leave inspired, equipped with practical tools and fresh perspectives, and ready to make an even greater impact in the organizations and communities you serve.

Presented by Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country

Wed, Sep 23
South Central Texas
Join a community-wide movement that brings nonprofits, donors, and community champions in South Central Texas together to celebrate generosity and support local impact. Organizations and supporters can use this opportunity to amplify important causes, engage new audiences, and strengthen the culture of giving.

Presented by The Nonprofit Council

Fri, Sep 25
Hurst
Bring together nonprofit professionals and community leaders for an opportunity to learn, connect, and explore strategies that strengthen the sector. Guided by the theme Rooted in Leadership, Growing in Impact, participants will gain practical insights, build relationships with peers, and discover approaches to help organizations increase their impact and better serve their communities.

Presented by North Texas Nonprofit Institute

Thu, Oct 15-Fri, Oct 16
Richardson
This premier conference is dedicated to advancing the field of volunteer management and serves as a hub for innovation, professional development, and sector-wide collaboration—equipping organizations with the strategies, insights, and tools needed to build and sustain high-impact volunteer programs. This year's theme of Bridges Beyond Boundaries focuses on bridging silos across sectors, communities, and capabilities to drive stronger collaboration and meaningful impact. 

Presented by VolunteerNow