2024 Annette G. Strauss Service Award Recipients

Joel T. Williams III

Among a notable list of personal and civic
accomplishments and a longtime supporter of children’s
causes, Joel is a Trustee of The Meadows Foundation and
former Mayor of the Town of Highland Park. Joel’s warmth
and willingness to learn was pivotal in bringing together
key players to restructure and improve the way we respond
to homelessness in Dallas and Collin counties.

Charles O’Connell

Charlie, a retired bank president, is a former
Board Member and current Advisory Board member of
Family Gateway. He came to Dallas after serving in a leadership
role in Houston’s homeless response system. Charlie’s deep
understanding of the policies surrounding homelessness
made him critical in the reshaping of the homeless
system in Dallas and Collin counties.