On Friday, October 28, 2022, AAMA–the Association for the Advancement of Mexican Americans–celebrated its over five decades of existence as the leading nonprofit organization in Texas working with Latino families to achieve financial security, well-being, and self-actualization through its largest fundraising event of the year. The Illumine Gala took place at the The Ballroom at Bayou Place from 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., and raised proceeds for AAMA’s year-round programs and services, which annually serve over 10,000 individuals across the state of Texas.

These programs include AAMA’s prevention and counseling services, George I. Sanchez Charter Schools, its Early Childhood Center, the Adelante Adult Education program, and its Work and Learn Center. AAMA was founded in 1970 by a group of students, business people, and teachers who came together to address key issues in the community, including drug abuse and school completion. Its first board of directors included Luis Cano, Froilan Hernández, Ninfa Laurenzo, Roland Laurenzo, David Martinez, William Navarro, and Yolanda Navarro.

“Our legacy in this community is one of service and commitment to the local region and its residents. AAMA continues to be a beacon of hope for thousands of individuals across the state, and we are able to do so because of the continued generous contributions of our supporters,” said Debbie Ortiz, interim president and CEO at AAMA. “The Illumine Gala is a wonderful celebration of all our achievements over the past year, as well as a major opportunity to support the increasing demand for our program services.”

The Illumine Gala was chaired by Christian Diaz and Agostina Loiacono and Telisa and Tom Shead; honorary chairs are Veronica and Brian Neal.

Proceeds raised by the Illumine Gala will benefit the various educational and health programs operated by AAMA in Texas. AAMA is dedicated to inspiring and empowering Latinos to pursue their potential and achieve success through education, workforce readiness, and leadership development.

The Illumine Gala took place on Friday, October 28, 2022 at The Ballroom at Bayou Place, located at 500 Texas Ave., Houston, TX 77002. The evening began at 6:30 p.m. with reception, auctions, dinner and a program, and included live Casino action and dancing to Mango Punch until 11:30 p.m.