From Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples:

Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples is calling on chefs and restaurant owners committed to buying and serving local ingredients to bring the best of Texas to the table during the sixth annual GO TEXAN Restaurant Round-Up, presented by Farm Credit.

During the statewide dine-out week, July 22-28, GO TEXAN member restaurants are offering special Texas menu items or a Texas food-and-beverage pairing. Participating restaurants will also donate to local food banks.

From the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas:

In January of this year, Better Business Bureau Serving Central East Texas introduced a local charity review program in response to the growing demand for objective information on charities. 

The new BBB program is designed to provide a way for donors at all levels to make wise giving decisions, in the face of these voluminous appeals.  The program also provides charitable organizations with a means to establish their accountability to donors and potential donors by adhering to the voluntary BBB charity standards.  The BBB standards, which address organizational governance, fundraising, and financial issues, also include a number of provisions to strengthen charitable accountability to donors. 

From the American Red Cross:

Brave men and women of the Armed Forces have sacrificed “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” in order to protect the principles that define this country. To be an American is to live with freedom, equality and personal rights safeguarded by the Armed Forces. Honor the dedication and service of Texas veterans by giving back at the time in their lives they most need support. 

The Red Cross Service to Armed Forces Program is seeking a volunteer team to adopt the local Texas State Veterans Home by participating in weekly or monthly activities for residents. Created and operated exclusively for Texas veterans, their spouses and Gold Star parents, the home offers first class long term care in a one-of-a-kind family-style setting.  Individual team volunteers, determine their level of participation in such activities as playing bingo, watching a movie or decorating for the holidays.