LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – For the past 10 years, the Volunteer Center of Lubbock has helped young people across the Lubbock community discover their potential as leaders through HYPE, or Helping Youth Purposefully Engage. Now, as the program enters its next chapter, the Volunteer Center is inviting the community to help sustain that work through its 2nd Annual Pink Tie Gala on Saturday, November 14th.
Since HYPE began, more than 500 young people have participated in the program, receiving specialized leadership development and opportunities to learn, serve, and engage with their community.
That means more than 500 young people have taken those skills and experiences with them into their schools, workplaces, organizations, and communities.
“When you invest in leadership development for a young person, you’re not only investing in who they are today. You’re investing in every classroom, workplace, organization, and community they will be part of in the future,” said Emily Smith, Executive Director of the Volunteer Center of Lubbock. “After 10 years and more than 500 young people, the ripple effect of HYPE is incredible to think about. We want to make sure the next generation of young people has that same opportunity.”
After a decade of grant support, HYPE is transitioning away from grant funding, making community support increasingly important to the program’s future.
Funds raised through the Pink Tie Gala will help support HYPE and other mission-based programs at the Volunteer Center of Lubbock, allowing the organization to continue creating opportunities for people of all ages to serve, lead, and connect.
“The support of our community is what allows programs like HYPE to continue,” Smith said. “The Pink Tie Gala is a chance to have a great night together, but it’s also an opportunity to invest in work that can shape our community for years to come.”
The 2nd Annual Pink Tie Gala will feature Pete’s Dueling Pianos, dinner, drinks, auctions, and the presentation of the Volunteer Center’s Heart of Service Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations making a meaningful difference through service.
The 2026 Heart of Service Award recipients are Doak Sexton, recipient of the Ignite award; The Salvation Army, recipient of the Compassion in Action award; and Atmos Energy, recipient of the Service with Purpose award.
The Pink Tie Gala will take place Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the Overton Hotel & Conference Center.
Tickets and tables are now available, and a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remain. To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or learn more, click here.
About the Volunteer Center of Lubbock
The Volunteer Center of Lubbock helps people serve, lead, and connect through meaningful experiences. Through volunteer engagement, youth programs, leadership development, and partnerships with nonprofits, schools, and businesses, the Volunteer Center works to build a stronger and more connected community.
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