The 28th annual Azalea Gala brought 675 friends of Christian Community Service Center (CCSC) together to celebrate the nonprofit’s mission and to honor longtime supporters Laura and The Rev. Dr. Russell Levenson. CCSC Board Chair Jeanie Arnold presented the Levensons with the Azalea Gala 2025 Honoree Award, celebrating their hands-on partnership with CCSC to alleviate the effects of poverty in Houston.

Rev. Levenson, retired rector of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in Houston, called the event, “A wonderful evening in Houston; reminding us of the honor and privilege it is to respond to Jesus’ invitation to join him in bringing hope and healing to all God sends our way,”

The over $835,000 raised at the Gala will expand the resources of CCSC’s social service programs, which provide emergency food, financial assistance, employment coaching, vocational training, and youth services to Houstonians in need.