COMMUNITY HERO OF THE MONTH: APRIL 2024

Michelle Gonzales
Abilene, Texas

Michelle has put on Pajamas for Mamas, an event benefiting the Noah Project for 8 years now. Every December she rallies together women from all over Abilene and surrounding towns to donate pajamas and socks for women who currently are staying at the Noah Project. Michelle organizes games for all attendees and gives out prizes. 

Two years ago, she felt another tug at her heart to add another annual event to benefit the same organization. She started hosting Blankets of Love. In 2023 about 30 blankets were donated, this year over 100 blankets were donated! Most blankets were dropped off at Noah Project but there were so many that a lot went to local nursing homes. 
 

COMMUNITY HERO OF THE MONTH: MARCH 2024

Tom Watson
Owner of Lazy T Toy Factory
Clyde, Texas

Tom Watson, owner of Lazy T Toy Factory in Clyde, Texas, is a Navy Seabee veteran whose retirement years have been dedicated to the children of the Big Country. At his own expense, he crafts small wooden cars, trucks, tractors, and animals for various agencies to distribute to young recipients or any child in need of care and affection. Tom's generosity knows no bounds as he provides his handmade toys to organizations such as the Tye and Eula Volunteer Fire Departments, Police Departments, New Horizons, and Noah Project in Abilene, Cook Children's Hospital, foster care children of Callahan County, and even volunteer groups assisting families during wildfires in California. Remarkably, Tom covers all costs, including shipping, out of his own pocket. His commitment to giving back to his community shines through in his mission to bring joy to children, one smile at a time.