What a year! As I reflect on my first year as a volunteer for the Fort Worth Cowtown Ball, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride and excitement. This year, we hit a new record by raising over $680,000 for the American Cancer Society (ACS), and it was truly an honor to be part of such a meaningful cause.

The year kicked off with the Run for the Roses Derby event in May, celebrating the Kentucky Derby in true Southern style. And then in September, we hosted the annual Cowtown Ball, a signature event that combines Western flair with a heart of gold. Both events not only met their goals but exceeded expectations, setting the stage for an even bigger goal next year!

One of the highlights of the Cowtown Ball was its vibrant venue, The Reserve, a private area in the Fort Worth Zoo. It was transformed into a trendy neon cowboy theme, with neon lights and Western vibes that made the night unforgettable.

This year, I was thrilled that Hire Up Staffing was a premium table sponsor, but the real victory was seeing the entire Dallas-Fort Worth community come together. Numerous sponsors stepped up for the cause, making this year’s ball one for the history books.

Since its inception, the Cowtown Ball has raised over $8.5 million for the ACS, becoming a cornerstone of cancer research and patient support in Fort Worth and beyond. As a volunteer, it was amazing to see the heart and dedication of everyone involved. Every dollar we raise makes a real difference—from funding groundbreaking research to providing vital services for patients and their families.

The ACS has been leading the fight against cancer for over a century, funding critical research that has led to life-saving treatments and creating programs that offer direct support to those battling the disease. In Texas, the impact is especially strong, with millions of dollars in grants benefiting local research and initiatives like the Road to Recovery and Hope Lodge.

Looking ahead, the goal for next year is ambitious but achievable: hoping to raise over $1 million for the fight against cancer. And I know we can do it with the continued support of this amazing community.

Thank you to everyone who made this year a success. Your generosity is what fuels the ACS’s mission to reduce cancer mortality by 40% by 2035. Together, we’re creating hope, resilience, and progress in the fight against cancer. Here’s to an even bigger 2025!

Stay tuned and join us in the mission—every contribution makes a difference.