Dr. Roland Arriola is recognized for his service to others
By: ENCORE Staff

PHARR, Texas - A philanthropist, a life-long educator and a political leader: What do they have in common?

Dr. Roland Arriola, Dr. Daniel King and Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa have committed to increasing and improving education opportunities for South Texas students and their families throughout their careers.

The City of Pharr and Good Samaritan Community Services (Good Sam) joined together to recognize these leaders for their contributions in the areas of education, health and economic development during a celebration at the Pharr Event Center August 25th.

Just over a month ago, Dr. Arriola, founder and president of the Texas Valley Communities Foundation, earned accolades from the White House and President Obama for his community work in the Rio Grande Valley. He was named a "Champion of Change" in honor of his commitment and dedication to local families and the people of South Texas.

Through a partnership between TVCOF and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Dr. Arriola fostered the creation of the Engaging Communities for College Readiness (ENCORE) Program. ENCORE has reached more than 3,000 at-risk students and their parents with engaging, hands-on workshops designed to promote the importance of higher education and college readiness since its inception in 2008. Dr. Arriola was also the mastermind in partnership with US Congressman Ruben Hinojosa (TX-15) of the nationally recognized Hispanic Engineering Science and Technology (HESTEC) week, now celebrating its 10th year.

Educators, community and business leaders, philanthropists and students participated in this event to honor these South Texas dynamic leaders and, at the same time, raise funds to support the community work of Good Sam. The organization - located in Pharr, Texas - serves low-socio economic children and their families from across the Rio Grande Valley.

"I feel very honored and grateful for this recognition and wonderful reception, I am thankful to God for giving me opportunities to help and support my community throughout my career. My mother always instilled in me to do our share in helping others", said Dr. Roland Arriola, President of Texas Valley Communities Foundation "I will continue to work in helping improve education and workforce opportunities for our students and parents in South Texas"

Part of the event program included a live auction of items donated to Good Sam including student art work, travel packages, furniture amenities and other valuable items. Videos showcasing the Samaritan student programs, their testimonies and community work were exhibited in a big screen during the dinner. The three community leaders being recognized the opportunity to give a brief speech to the audience highlighting the importance of teamwork and partnerships to continue in improving educational opportunities for all children in the South Texas.

For more information about this event, please contact Ernesto Villarreal at 956-903-4231.