Posted on Apr 29, 2019 in
HOMETOWN HEROES
By Joan Frances | Photos by Mary Favre –
Dennis and Lynn Halford.
The path of life that leads people to graciously give of themselves in the form of volunteering is a calling, a message from God. Motivation can vary from person to person, but the meaning is always the same: to help our fellow man. Our Hometown Hero Lynn Halford has devoted her time to making life better for everyone she touches.
Halford is married to Dennis, an orthodontist. They lived in Houston while he was going to school, where she taught Kindergarten for eight years. They moved to Sugar Land in 1983 to open his orthodontic practice, raised two children and enjoy their two grandchildren.
As a little girl, Halford recalls observing her dad volunteer for different organizations as she grew up. “I would watch how happy it would make him as he volunteered his time to help people in need.”
For the past 36 years, Halford has followed in her father’s footsteps. When her son Derrick was born prematurely, the Halfords took an interest in The Association for Special Needs Citizens (ARC) and devoted their lives to supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. When the Fort Bend Education Foundation (FBEF) was formed in the 1990’s, Dennis was on the founding board. The second year, Halford chaired the fundraiser gala. She explained, “FBEF provides opportunities to enrich and enhance the quality of education for all Fort Bend Independent School District students. The money received from the many fundraisers is divided among all the schools so every child will benefit in some way.” She has chaired six fundraisers for FBEF including the 25th Anniversary Gala.
Lynn Halford and Peggy Jackson co-chaired of the Fort Bend Education Foundation 25th Anniversary Gala held in March 2018.
In addition to her time with FBEF, Halford is involved at the Fort Bend Discovery Center at the Children’s Museum in Sugar Land. Since inception two years ago, she has been on the board and has helped in fundraising for the Museum. “Discovery Center engages children to experience a hands-on learning experience. I enjoy taking my grandchildren and watching their faces light up when they learn something new. The programs take learning a step further, with scientific information and experiments every child can enjoy.”
For the past 20 years, Lynn has also chaired fundraisers for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). This program provides a voice for children in foster care and ensures that their “best interests” are being served. With one child and a few volunteers, the launch eventually became one of the most respected nonprofit agencies in the country providing comprehensive services for all children who are victims of abuse or neglect. The money from the fundraisers support youths in need providing clothing and supplies, anything that will make life easier for this special group of children. The people Halford works with are wonderful. “I have found my best friends through the different organizations I worked with. We all help one another and enjoy giving back. There is nothing more satisfying.”
Halford and her family have been members of Sugar Land Baptist Church since 1986. They generously volunteer in various capacities throughout the church community. On February 23, 2010, Halford was honored as a Fort Bend Jewel, one of five Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives in Fort Bend County. Thank you Lynn Halford for your devotion and commitment to making this world a better place to live for everyone.
