The Woodlands’ much anticipated night of fashion, philanthropy and generosity raised nearly $800,000, making it the most successful The Walk gala to date.
More than 730 people filled The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center for an unforgettable Black & White Ball. Dressed in stunning shades of black and white, Interfaith supporters came together for an evening that celebrated style, community and, most importantly, the mission of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
“The incredible generosity we experienced at The Walk is a powerful reflection of how deeply this community believes in the mission of Interfaith,” Interfaith president and CEO Missy Herndon says. “As the need for crisis assistance continues to grow for families and seniors in our area, the funds raised will have a tremendous impact on our ability to serve our neighbors when they need us most.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made this record-breaking evening possible and continues to stand alongside Interfaith in caring for our community.”
Gala co-chairs Kim Bonilla and Tina Goodson helped bring the vision of The Walk’s Black & White Ball to life, creating an unforgettable evening that impressed from beginning to end. A spectacular backdrop set the stage for a high-energy runway show featuring looks from Pell 1990, Suitsupply and Thomas Markle Jewelers. Courtney Pell and Market Street’s Noemi Gonzales put together a shoppable fashion show with local merchants, with part of the proceeds going to Interfaith.
Fashion and Fun
The runway show concluded with an electric finale as The Walk’s 2026 Community Champions took the stage. That’d be Linsey and Ryan Bibler, Cindy and Craig Heiser, Jo Anne and Troy Johnson, Kristen Byrnes and Carrie Greenberg, and Jill Simms and Sondra Lagasse. Their walk served as a powerful reminder of the people who champion Interfaith’s mission and help strengthen the community.
Another highlight of the night was the crowning of Laura and David Piccione as the 2026 The Walk Icons. The Walk Icon competition alone raised $16,258, with every dollar representing a vote in support of Interfaith. As this year’s winners, the Picciones selected Interfaith’s Kits 4 Kids Program to receive the money raised through the competition, helping provide local students in need with backpacks and school supplies.
“The smile on my face is knowing that on Monday, when we’re back in our regular clothes, greeting the families and seniors that call on us for help, that we will have the ability to make real change in their lives, thanks to the funds raised this evening,” Herndon says. “How wonderful it is that we have a community that comes together to support our neighbors when they are most in need.
“It is truly one of the most amazing attributes of Montgomery County and The Woodlands, Texas. Neighbors help neighbors.”
Proceeds from The Walk directly support Interfaith of The Woodlands and its programs and services. Throughout South Montgomery County, Interfaith provides critical assistance to families, seniors and individuals experiencing crisis. From food and emergency financial assistance to Senior Services, school supplies and other essential resources, funds raised through The Walk will help Interfaith continue to meet The Woodlands community’s ever-growing needs.