Our Rising Stars initiative initially began as an award and, over the years, has developed into an organized program that recognizes an elite group of Houstonians who have contributed to civic life and are poised to do much more.

Through this program, we offer a year of training and volunteer opportunities for these selected leaders of all ages to share their talents and expand their reach as champions of civic engagement. Participants attend a series of monthly class sessions that range from meeting with leaders of active political parties in Houston to learning how to become a VDVR and participating in naturalization ceremonies.

With opportunities to participate in phone banking during the election, work on the Conversations with Candidates and engage at polling locations—we want to help our Rising Stars uncover what aspect of civic engagement they have the greatest affinity for and give them the tools they need to help our community do great things.