A Night of Heart, Heroes, and Hope: The Arc of Katy to Honor Local Champions at 2026 Noche de Amor Gala
An unforgettable evening of love, laughter, and local impact is headed to Katy this February as The Arc of Katy rolls out the red carpet for its annual Noche de Amor Gala. This year’s celebration doesn’t just raise critical funds for a life-changing mission—it shines a well-deserved spotlight on four exceptional honorees who’ve gone above and beyond to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Set for Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Agave Estates, the gala will feature a seated dinner, live and silent auctions, entertainment, and heartfelt recognition of this year’s award recipients: Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church, Steven J. Hauck, William D. Auffenberg, and Ellen Ryan Candito.
These individuals and community partners are being honored not for accolades—but for action. Their stories paint a powerful picture of what happens when compassion meets commitment.
Lifting Others: A Church With an Open Heart
This year’s Ann Davis Founder’s Award goes to Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church, a steadfast mission partner of The Arc of Katy. Whether offering up their space, funding supplies, or hosting inclusive community events like the Acorn Arts and Crafts Festival, the church has quietly become a lifeline for the organization and its participants.
Named for founding president Ann Davis, who helped charter The Arc of Katy in 1990, the award recognizes those who carry on her legacy of love and service. “Grand Lakes Presbyterian has not only opened their doors to us—they’ve opened their hearts,” said board president Fred Shafer. “Their generosity helps us make every day meaningful for those we serve.”
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Two Businessmen, One Big Solution
When transportation problems threatened to sideline community outings for The Arc of Katy’s day program participants, local businessman Steve Hauck didn’t just take note—he took action. After learning of the issue through a board member, Hauck, president and CEO of Steel Trading Company of America, sprang into problem-solving mode. He brought in Bill Auffenberg, owner of Westside Chevrolet and Westside Kia in Katy, and together, they stepped up in a big way.
Their solution? Ongoing in-kind repairs and maintenance for The Arc’s entire fleet of five buses.
“These services keep our buses running safely and reliably,” Shafer said. “Steve and Bill didn’t just lend a hand—they made it possible for our participants to keep exploring the world, gaining independence, and living fuller lives.”
For their efforts, Hauck and Auffenberg will be honored as this year’s Community Champions.
A Life of Quiet Service
Ellen Ryan Candito, named Volunteer of the Year, is the kind of behind-the-scenes powerhouse every nonprofit dreams of having. A retired Katy ISD speech pathologist, Candito first joined The Arc of Katy board in 2012. Since then, she’s worn many hats: board secretary, Gala Committee member, Program Committee contributor, and regular volunteer at socials, bingo nights, and fundraisers.
Her impact doesn’t stop there. Candito also volunteers her time at multiple Houston-area theaters and continues her service to faith-based and youth programs in Katy.
“Ellen is one of those rare people whose kindness shows up everywhere,” Shafer said. “She doesn’t seek recognition—but she deserves it.”
More Than a Gala—A Mission in Motion
The Noche de Amor Gala is The Arc of Katy’s largest and most vital fundraiser of the year. All proceeds go directly toward making programs affordable and accessible for teens and adults with IDD—and offering hope and support to their families.
Founded more than 36 years ago, The Arc of Katy helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live with purpose, connection, and dignity. The organization’s programs focus on building skills, boosting confidence, encouraging socialization, and giving participants the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the community.
Funds from the gala help cover tuition assistance, need-based scholarships, and the upkeep of the welcoming facilities where friendships grow and lives are transformed.
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Event Details & How to Attend
Noche de Amor: An Evening of Love and Support for The Arc of Katy
- Date: Friday, Feb. 27, 2026
- Time: 6:00–10:00 p.m.
- Venue: Agave Estates | 1250 FM 1463, Katy, TX 77494
- Dinner | Live & Silent Auctions | Entertainment | Honoree Recognition
Reserve your seat or become a sponsor here. Learn more about The Arc of Katy’s programs, volunteer opportunities, and ways to give at thearcofkaty.org.
From the people who give their time, to the businesses that give their resources, to the families who trust The Arc with their loved ones—Noche de Amor is a celebration of what can be accomplished when a community comes together for a purpose greater than itself.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
