The Greater Fayette Community Foundation (GFCF) is proud to announce that ticket sales are open as of June 1st for the second annual Community Keyholder Awards Dinner, presented by Fayette Savings Bank, taking place on October 1, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at The Oaks at High Hill in Schulenburg, Texas.
This event was created to honor the people and organizations helping shape a stronger rural South Central Texas. The Community Keyholder Awards bring together nonprofit leaders, businesses, donors, and community members for an evening centered on service and local impact.
The awards were created to recognize the often unseen work happening across our communities. From nonprofit organizations expanding access to resources, to local businesses supporting community initiatives, to individuals whose leadership continues to open doors for others, the evening celebrates the people helping rural communities thrive.
This year’s event continues GFCF’s commitment to uplifting community-rooted leadership and strengthening connections across the region.
Four award categories will recognize outstanding contributions across rural South Central Texas:
Annette Citzler Visionary Leadership Award
Established in honor of Greater Fayette Community Foundation founder Annette Citzler, this award celebrates the spirit of bold vision and unwavering commitment to community. Annette’s foresight and leadership laid the foundation for a thriving network of rural support, proving how one individual’s dedication can spark lasting, regional change.
Joe and Carolyn Bailey Philanthropist of the Year Award
This award is presented posthumously in honor of Joe and Carolyn Bailey, whose steadfast generosity and belief in the power of rural philanthropy helped shape the mission and growth of the Greater Fayette Community Foundation. Joe and Carolyn’s legacy lives on through the lives they touched and the opportunities they helped create, reminding us all that true philanthropy leaves a lasting mark.
Beeman Family Community Partner Award
Named in honor of the Beeman Family, owners of HeartBrand Beef, a family business deeply committed to strengthening rural communities. This award recognizes the vital role that local businesses and civic groups play in uplifting and sustaining the nonprofit sector. The Beeman’s ongoing investment in community impact serves as a model of generosity, leadership, and long-term partnership.
GFCF Community Impact Award
This award recognizes one registered nonprofit organization making bold, collaborative, and innovative progress—opening doors for a stronger, healthier, and more connected Greater Fayette region. The selected nonprofit will also receive a $1,000 grant to support the organization’s mission.
Nominate Your Community
Nominations are open through June 30. Every community has people who show up, lead with purpose, and create lasting change.
Now is the time to recognize them.
The Greater Fayette Community Foundation Community Keyholder Awards celebrates the individuals, nonprofits, donors, and partners who are strengthening our region every day.
We invite you to submit a nomination by June 30th to help us shine a light on their impact.
Tickets to Purchase Tables Are Now Available
The Community Keyholder Awards are more than a celebration. They are a reminder that lasting community impact happens through relationships, collaboration, and people who continue showing up for their neighbors year after year.
As GFCF continues investing in rural health, workforce development, mental health, and community wellbeing, the awards serve as an opportunity to reflect on the people helping move this work forward across the region.