Strong communities are built by people who choose to give back. That leadership takes many forms across Central Texas. From educating the next generation, protecting our neighbors, supporting families and creating opportunities for others’ success, people are making a difference everyday. This month, we are highlighting the organizations, initiatives and conversations that are creating that lasting impact in our region.

For 25 years, H-E-B has celebrated the educators who help shape the future of Texas.

This year, the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards program is marking a significant milestone, with more than $1 million in cash prizes for outstanding teachers, counselors, principals, school boards, school districts and early childhood facilities across the state.

Strong schools are built by exceptional educators, and investing in those leaders strengthens communities across Texas for generations to come.

Learn more ▶

Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy, safe, happy and successful, and that is exactly what Mayor Kirk Watson’s initiative, GenATX, aims to do.

Growing Up Austin, a GenATX convening, brought over 300 educators, healthcare and business leaders, nonprofit organizations, policymakers and community partners together around that shared goal. The organization also unveiled new benchmark research examining childhood well-being across Austin and a five-year strategy designed to guide community action.

As Central Texas continues to grow, efforts like these can help leaders better understand where children and families are thriving, where gaps remain and where collaboration can make the greatest difference.

Read the full story ▶

Each September, communities across the country pause to remember the lives lost on September 11 and the extraordinary courage of the first responders who answered the call.

Travis County Emergency Services District No. 2's annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb brings firefighters, first responders and community members together to honor those who served while reflecting on the enduring values of courage, sacrifice and resilience.

The event serves as a meaningful reminder that service continues long after moments of crisis.

Learn more ▶

Celebrating Women Leading the Region

The Austin Business Journal recently celebrated the winners and finalists of its 32nd annual Women in Business Awards, recognizing leaders making an impact.

We're proud to have partnered with three of this year's recognized leaders and celebrate the work they continue to do for their organizations and communities.

• Cheryl Katon, Emancipet

• AnnMarie Kocher, Humann

• Yael Lawson, Workforce Solutions Capital Area

Meet the 2026 Women in Business winners and finalists ▶

Recognizing Central Texas’ Top CEOs

Each year, the Austin Business Journal recognizes notable Central Texas leaders through its Best CEO Awards. We’re proud to see several friends and colleagues among this year’s nominees!

• Greg Canally, Austin Transit Partnership

• Celia Cole, Feeding Texas

• Kendall Garrison, Amplify Credit Union

• Emily Girard, Austin Board of REALTORS® and Unlock MLS

• Andrea Mellard, Shield Ranch Foundation

• Tom Noonan, Visit Austin

• Jim Susman, STG Design

• Ingrid Taylor, United Way for Greater Austin

View the full list of honorees ▶

Good conversations can challenge how we think, introduce new perspectives and keep us connected to what's happening around us. Here are a few we're listening to this month.

Changing Austin by Amplify Credit Union
Exploring the people, places and conversations shaping Austin’s future.

Hire Local by Workforce Solutions Capital Area
Workforce Solutions Capital Area’s podcast highlighting workforce trends, career pathways and opportunities across Central Texas.

This month, we're turning the Connector Playlist over to our own team.

Behind ECPR Texas' work with the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards is a team that helps tell the stories of educators making a difference across the state. In honor of 25 years of an awards program that honors outstanding educators, we're sharing the songs that keep our team energized, inspired and ready for whatever comes next.

🎧 Listen to our H-E-B EIE Team’s Connector Playlist ▶

Every community has people quietly making a difference, often without seeking recognition. This month's stories remind us that lasting impact isn't built through a single moment, but through the relationships, partnerships and acts of service that strengthen Central Texas every day.