Memory Lane

On September 7, 2001, Nancy S. Owens lost her courageous 20-year battle with breast cancer. Throughout her life, she had a distinguished career in real estate, becoming a well-known figure respected for her professionalism, integrity, and grace. Her name was synonymous with excellence in the industry, and she was loved by all who knew her.

In the wake of Nancy’s passing, a group of her closest friends came together, united by their shared love and admiration for her, to honor her legacy. Out of their loss, they founded the Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation, driven by Nancy’s final wish to support the advancement of breast cancer research and work toward finding a cure. The foundation stands as a testament to her vision, carrying on her hope for a future free from breast cancer.

2024

On May 9, 2024, the Houston community gathered at Tootsies for Fashion for the Cure, hosted by the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation (NOBCF). The event combined fashion and philanthropy, featuring designs by Christy Lynn and jewelry by Hazel Smyth, along with signature drinks, gourmet bites, and entertainment by Johnny Bravo Entertainment.

NOBCF Chair Terri Guerra thanked co-chairs Randee Kaplan, Shelly Levy, Modie Piperi, Carol Desenberg, and Lysa Elkins for their dedication, as well as sponsors including Cassandra Hurst/Cadence Bank, Tradition Title Company, and Jennifer Hernandez/Loan with Jen. The event reinforced NOBCF’s 23-year commitment to supporting local breast cancer research.

Hope, Strength, and Inspiration Shine Bright at NOBCF Luncheon, Fueling the Fight Against Breast Cancer!

The Omni Houston was abuzz with energy on October 25, as over 500 supporters came together to celebrate resilience and raise awareness for breast cancer research at the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation (NOBCF) Luncheon. This inspiring gathering reinforced the Foundation’s dedication to a future free from breast cancer, funding groundbreaking research that brings us closer every day to eradicating this devastating disease.

The luncheon saw the NOBCF proudly announce its ongoing support of three pioneering projects, with donations to Baylor College of Medicine’s Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center (led by Dr. Xiang Zhang), The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (Dr. Isabelle Bedrosian), and the Department of Nanomedicine at Houston Methodist Research Institute (Dr. Alessandro Grattoni). These contributions are crucial steps in advancing innovative treatments and, one day, achieving a cure.

Terri Guerra, the chairperson of NOBCF, thanked attendees warmly for their unwavering support, announcing an exciting lineup for the coming year, including the highly anticipated Fashion for the Cure event set for Spring 2025! “Together, we are making a difference,” Guerra affirmed, “and with your help, we’ll continue fueling research that changes lives.”

The event honored its generous Diamond Sponsors—Peggie Kohnert, Richard Yount, and Jennifer Hernandez/Legacy Mutual Mortgage—and celebrated all sponsors, donors, and participants, including the Villages, the Houston Association of Realtors and TK Images. The thrilling silent auction brought both spirited competition and heartfelt contributions, underscoring the strength of community support for this life-changing mission.

Deborah Duncan, host and senior producer of KHOU-TV, Channel 11's, Great Day Houston emceed the event with her trademark warmth, humor, and compassion, setting the stage for an afternoon that touched hearts and inspired action. 

Featured speaker Mark Willis, a prominent CEO who lost his wife to breast cancer, shared a moving story of love and resilience, leaving everyone with a renewed commitment to the cause. Mark then shocked the crowd with the surprise announcement of a generous $10,000 donation to the foundation, sparking a wave of applause and inspiring even more support for the fight against breast cancer. This incredible gesture motivated our Diamond Sponsor, Peggie Kohnert, to match all donations given by attendees that day, up to an additional $10,000, doubling the impact and fueling hope for a cure.

One of the luncheon’s highlights was the presentation of the coveted “Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award,” a tribute to strength and perseverance, awarded this year to Jennifer Bowlin, a cancer survivor and shining example of courage in the real estate industry. Jennifer’s inspiring words moved the entire room, reminding us of the strength and hope that defines NOBCF’s mission.

2023

On May 3, 2023, the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation (NOBCF) hosted Fashion for the Cureat Tootsies, with guests dressed in Viva Magenta, the color of the year. The successful event raised awareness and support for breast cancer research through an evening of fashion, mingling, and shopping.

Attendees enjoyed signature cocktails from Acasa Margarita Mis, cookies from Crumbl-Memorial, and trunk shows featuring Samira13 Jewelry, PatBO, Christy Lynn, Sandra Weil, and Mother Denim. Deborah Duncan of Great Day Houstonannounced a special raffle for two tickets to the PatBOfashion show at New York Fashion Week.

Event organizers Cassandra Hurst, Randee Kaplan, and Shelly Levyexpressed gratitude to sponsors, including Hurst Mortgage Group, Tradition Title Company, Bernstein Realty, and many others. The event reinforced NOBCF’s ongoing commitment to breast cancer awareness and research.

"Laugh Loud, Stand Strong" Resonates at the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation Luncheon, Fueling Breast Cancer Research Awareness

In a remarkable gathering on October 2nd, over 500 individuals congregated at the Hilton Americas for the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation (NOBCF) Luncheon. This event served as a powerful catalyst for raising awareness about breast cancer research, with the goal of ultimately eradicating this devastating disease affecting countless lives.

The NOBCF has pledged its support to three critical breast cancer research initiatives: the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the Department of Nanomedicine at Houston Methodist Research Institute. Leading these projects are Dr. XiangZhang of Baylor, Dr. Isabelle Bedrosian of MD Anderson, and Dr. Allesandro Grattoni of Methodist.

Terri Guerra, the Foundation's Chairperson, passionately expressed her commitment to expanding the Foundation's reach and continuing its year-round fundraising mission. Anticipation is already building for the upcoming "Fashion for the Cure" event in Spring 2024.

The Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to its Diamond sponsor, Peggie Kohnert and Richard Yont, as well as Jennifer Hernandez/Legacy Mutual Mortgage, who generously contributed at the Platinum level. The Foundation is also thankful for all its sponsors, donors, and supporters, including those who participated in the impressive silent auction. The Houston Association of Realtors served as their professional sponsor, and TK Images as their photography sponsor.

Deborah Duncan of KHOU's Great Day Houston lent her talents as the Mistress of Ceremonies, captivating the audience with her professionalism, wit, and genuine compassion for those affected by breast cancer. The guest speaker, Tig Notaro, a multifaceted talent and breast cancer survivor, delivered an entertaining and inspiring speech that filled the room with laughter and empowered all to stand strong against breast cancer.

A poignant moment during this year's luncheon was the presentation of the "Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award," which honors an exceptional individual in the real estate industry who has triumphed over cancer. Lori Carper was the well-deserved recipient this year. In her brief remarks, Carper shared her journey as a breast cancer survivor and received a beautiful silver angel as a reminder of her strength and resilience.

2022 

On February 1st, we partnered with Kendra Scott for our first “Share the Love” event at their Highland Village location. Proceeds from all sales benefited the foundation. The event was a big success. 

May 4thit was FASHION, PINK, SHOPPING…Tootsies was the place to be as the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation (NOBCF) hosted Fashion for the Cure. The event was hugely successful, enabling the Foundation to impact the community with energy, enthusiasm and raise awareness about breast cancer. The event raised over $38,000.

On October 24th we held our annual Luncheon and Auction at the Hilton America's Downtown. As chair of the all-volunteer Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation since its founding in the early 2000s, Amy Bernstein of Bernstein Realty officially passed the gavel at the event to chair Terri Guerra,who actually took over the position in 2019. But due to COVID, the ceremonies had been delayed until this year.

Answering the mission of the nonprofit in supporting the fight against breast cancer, checks totaling $165,000 were presented to the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and the Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute. Dr. Xiang Zhang of Baylor, Dr. Isabelle Bedrosian of MD Anderson and Dr. Allesandro Grattoni of Methodist accepted the generous check on behalf of their organizations.

Deborah Duncan of KHOU’s Great Day Houston served as emcee of the event that featured as guest speaker retired NFL defensive tackle Devon Still, who today is an author and life coach. Still is familiar with the devastating challenges of cancer as his daughter was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma at the tender age of 4. Happily, his daughter, now 12, is cancer free.

An annual highlight of the luncheon is presentation of the Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award, which reflects the courage of an extraordinary individual in the real estate industry who has fought the battle against cancer and won. Realtor Renee Davy of The Davy Group was this year’s award recipient and she spoke briefly on her journey through breast cancer.

2021 

With the threat of Covid still in the spotlight, the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation spent much of the year working on our accreditation with various charitable organizations. One we are most proud of is our accreditation with the Better Business Bureau. We can be found on BBB, Charity Navigator, GuideStarand we were ranked as a top rated charity for 2021 with Great Non-Profits.

On May 26th Cocktails for the Cure was held at Kirby Ice House to a packed house. Guest enjoyed the festivities with cocktails, raffles and photo booths. The event was a huge success and raised over $12,000.

Although we were forced to cancel our annual luncheon, The Nancy Owen Breast Cancer Foundation has proudly donated $90,000 to research projects.

2020 

Terri Guerra named as Chairman 

In light of the events of 2020, specifically Covid-19, we felt it was appropriate to cancel our annual luncheon in October.  Although our hearts were sad, after 19 luncheons since our efforts began to find a cure in 2001, it is with excitement and the same passion and commitment that we continue to raise funds for the research projects we believe in. 

Very First Fashion for the Cure was held on December 4th at Tootsies. Over 100 guests attended the fashion event and raised over $28,000 to benefit breast cancer research.

2019 

The Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation hosted its 18th Annual Luncheon  on October 7th with celebrity guest speaker Dorothy Hamill at the Hilton Americas – Houston. Guests mingled amidst the silent auction items before enjoying a delicious lunch and listening to Hamill’s powerful journey of her battle against breast cancer. The luncheon also featured a special presentation of the Spirit of Courage Awardto Melonee Piperi, a remarkable individual who has won the fight against breast cancer. 

The $120,000 proceeds from the luncheon were donated to breast cancer research projects in Houston at the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the Department of Nanomedicine at Houston Methodist Research Institute.

On October 15th, Cocktails for the Cure was held at Wicklow Heights Bungalow and Garden Bar. Guest enjoyed watching the Astros game on the big screen out on the expansive backyard patio. A variety of craft cocktails were designed for the event.

2018 

In 2018, the Foundation changed their name to be The Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation to be more in line with their mission statement. The Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation continues to receive tremendous support from the community, local media and press to find a cure for breast cancer.

Swing for the Cure 2018 - Golf enthusiasts and fans raised over $30K to support breast cancer research in Houston at the Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation’s Swing for the Cure on Monday, April 23rd at Sweetwater Country Club.

Cheers to Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation with Annual Cocktails for the Cure. On September 5th at Chapman and Kirby. Guests relished in the ambiance of the gastropub with industrial touches housed in the up-and-coming East Downtown neighborhood as they sipped perfectly crafted cocktails and noshed on light bites.

The Nancy Owens Breast Cancer Foundation hosted its 17thAnnual Luncheon  on October 26th with celebrity guest speaker, Melissa Etheridge at the Hilton Americas – Houston. Guests mingled amidst the silent auction items before enjoying a delicious lunch and listening to Etheridge’s powerful journey of her battle against breast cancer, which received public attention when she performed at The Grammy’s with apparent side effects of her cancer treatment. The luncheon also featured a special presentation of the Spirit of Courage Award to Wendy Bernstein, a remarkable individual who has won the fight against breast cancer. Wendy proceeded to dedicated and present her Spirit of Courage Award to her oncologist, Dr. Osborne of Baylor College of Medicine. Wendy proudly announced that she is cancer free. The $105,000 proceeds from the luncheon benefitted to cancer research in the Houston area through The Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and The Department of Nanomedicine at Houston Methodist Research Institute.

2017 

“Houston Haute Couture” fashion presentation featuring designer Lafayette 148 was held on March 10th at Saks Fifth Avenue in the Houston Galleria .  Each year the Women’s Council of Realtors Houston chapter get together for fun and fashion benefiting a local charity.  This year they partnered with the Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation which raises money for breast cancer research.

On May 1, the Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation held its annual ’Swing for the Cure” at Sweetwater Country Club. Twenty-five teams took to the green to raise $38,000 for breast cancer research and awareness. 

The Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation hosted its 16th annual luncheon with celebrity guest speaker, Joan Lunden, on Oct. 16 at the Hilton Americas — Houston. Over 750 attended the event. Lunden, an award-winning journalist, bestselling author, motivational speaker, and women’s health and wellness advocate, inspired the crowd as she shared the story of her battle against breast cancer and the transformative effect it has had on her life, as well as her work on Capitol Hill as an advocate for patients across the country. “It’s now my turn to pay it forward,” said Lunden, a longtime TV personality on Good Morning America. “I once heard a quote that there are two great days in our life, the day we are born and the day we discover why.” The luncheon also included a special presentation of the 2017 Spirit of Courage Award to Alyson Haas, a remarkable Houstonian who won the battle against breast cancer and went on to start her own company that donates a portion of proceeds from every sale to breast cancer research.

2016 

The 2016 Swing for the Cure was held on Monday, May 2, at Sweetwater Country Club.

The Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation hosted our 15th annual luncheon on October 17 at the Hilton Americas-Houston. Approximately 840 guests filled the ballroom at the luncheon featuring celebrity guest speaker Henry Winkler, which raised $120,000 for breast cancer research in Houston. Winkler kept the audience spellbound as he shared his own life struggles with dyslexia and how that made him the person he is today. His message was of believing in oneself – even when others doubt you. Greatness, he points out is not a test score or where you graduated from college but rather in doing your best and finding your own path to success. The 2016 Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award was presented to Donna Vallone. This award reflects and honors the courage of an extraordinary individual who has fought the battle against cancer—and won! Vallone was introduced by husband and Houston restauranteur, Tony Vallone. Her story is one of inspiration, courage and hope! A nine-year survivor, Donna stands as testament to early detection and positivity.

2015 

On Monday, May 4, 2015, 35 teams participated in the Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Swing for the Cure Golf Tournament held at the Sweetwater Country Club Golf Course that benefitted the foundation. The event raised over $34,000, which will benefit the foundation’s goal of donations towards finding a cure for breast cancer.

The 14th Annual Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Luncheon was held on October 21, 2015 at the Hilton Americas-Houston. With high attendance at a new venue, the foundation was able to impact the community with energy and enthusiasm and raise awareness about breast cancer as well as surpass the $1.53 million mark in donations! 

This year’s featured guest speaker was Amy Robach of Good Morning America, who received her first mammogram on air in 2013 and was subsequently diagnosed with breast cancer. The 2015 Spirit of Courage Award was given to Lourdes Hernandez, a three-time breast cancer survivor and breast cancer volunteer activist. At the luncheon, the foundation donated a record breaking $130,000 equally divided among the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine, the University of Texas MD Anderson, and the Houston Methodist Research Institute Department of Nanomedicine. Special thanks to all of our sponsors, donors, and friends for all of the support!

2014  

On October 6, 2014, approximately 950 people attended the Annual Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Luncheon at The Westin Galleria. The Foundation donated a record-setting $125,000 to three research projects. Dr. Anthony Lucci Jr. with MD Anderson, Dr. Grattoni with the Houston Methodist Research Institute and Dr. Xiaosong Wang with Baylor College of Medicine accepted the check on behalf of their organizations. This brings the total of monies donated by the Foundation to more than $1.4 million. 

Ilona Carson with KTRK- TV (Ch. 13), hosted the event as the MC. Guest speakers for the luncheon were Giuliana and Bill Rancic, who have a combined five million followers on Twitter and Instagram as a result of the many television shows they are a part of and their philanthropic work. They were watched by millions each week on E! on their reality show, Giuliana & Bill, which recently started its seventh season. As executive producers, Giuliana and Bill attribute the show’s success to their transparent approach used to educate viewers about life’s struggles and challenges, including marriage, breast cancer, infertility and parenting. 

The Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award was presented to Sheri Malone. Malone thanked her family and friends who guided her through the journey.

2013 

On Monday, April 22, 2013, a total of 31 teams participated in the Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Golf Tournament, Swing for the Cure,  held at the Sugar Creek Country Club Golf Course that benefited the foundation. The event raised more than $15,000 toward finding a cure for breast cancer.

On October 7, 2013, almost 900 people attended the 12th Annual Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Luncheon at The Westin Galleria. The luncheon, with the largest attendance in the Foundation’s history to date, enabled the foundation to impact the community with energy and enthusiasm and raise awareness about breast cancer. The foundation donated $100,000 to three research projects. Dr. Kent Osborne and Dr. Eric Chang from the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Anthony Lucci from the University of Texas MD Anderson, and Dr. Alessandro Grattoni with The Department of Nanomedicine with the Houston Methodist Research Institute, accepted the generous check on behalf of their organizations. Ilona Carson with KTRK-TV (Ch. 13) hosted the event. The guest speaker for the luncheon was Martina Navratilova. As a champion on and off the court, Navratilova is not only a tennis legend, but an inspirational leader who demonstrates tenacity, candor and motivation. Among the best tennis players ever to step on the court, Navratilova amassed an unmatched number of professional records over the course of a career that spanned four decades. She has won 59 Grand Slam crowns, a record nine Wimbledon singles champions, and overcame the odds to become both one of the most successful tennis players ever and an equally successful leader. Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award was presented to Raghda Henthorne. Henthorne thanked her family and friends who guided her through the journey. Her remarks brought the crowd to their feet.

2012 

The Third Annual Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Golf Tournament, Swing for the Cure, was held on Monday, March 19, 2012, a total of 24 teams participated in the event held at the Sweetwater Golf Course that benefitted the foundation.

In September the Foundation took over opening night at Main Street Theater of Girls Only  - The Secret Comedy of Women is an original comedy that celebrates the honor, truth, humor and silliness of the female spirit. With a two-woman cast and audiences full of raucous laughing women, the show has found quick popularity in its unique examination of all things girly. Proceeds from the event benefited the Foundation.

On October 15, 2012, more than 600 people attended the 

11th annual Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Luncheon at the Westin Galleria.  At the luncheon, the foundation donated $100,000 to the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Texas MD Anderson. Doctor Kent Osborne and Dr. Eric Chang from the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at BCM and Dr. Anthony Lucci from the University of Texas MD Anderson accepted the generous check on behalf of their organizations. This brings the grand total of monies donated to more than $1.1 million. Ilona Carson with KTRK-TV (Ch. 13) hosted the event as the emcee. Guest speaker was Shannon Miller, who remains the most decorated American gymnast, male or female, in history. She is the only American to rank among the Top 10 all-time gymnasts and is the only female athlete to be inducted into the US Olympic Hall of Fame – twice. In January of 2011, Miller was diagnosed with a malignant germ cell tumor, a form of ovarian cancer. She spoke about her journey as an Olympian and how the lessons she learned carried her through her journey with cancer. Miller is currently cancer free and continues to be a strong advocate for making health a priority and sharing her message with regard to annual exams and screenings: “Do not delay, do not reschedule; early detection saves lives.” The Spirit of Courage Awardwas presented to Lance Sims. Diagnosed in 1987, he underwent surgery and 6 1/2 months of chemotherapy. During this time, his friends didn’t know how to react or what to do, so they stayed away from him. He maintained his courage and continues to help the less fortunate.

2011 

The Second Annual Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation “Swing for the Cure” Golf Tournament was held on Monday, March 21, 2011.  A total of 21 teams participated in the event held at the Sweetwater Golf Course that benefitted the foundation.

In September our citywide fundraising event Pink & Blue Jean was held and was followed by Cocktails for the Cure at the Royal Oak Bar & Grill.

On October 3, 2011, more than 650 people attended the 10th annual Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Luncheon at The Westin Galleria. The foundation donated $100,000, equally divided among the Houston Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine. Ilona Carson, KTRK-TV (Ch. 13), emceed the event. The audience was surprised with a flash mob dance to “I Will Survive.” Dancers from the Smith Foundation danced through the audience with pink wigs, shirts and boas. Pink boas were given to luncheon guests to join in on the fun. The guest speaker for the luncheon was Lester H. Smith, who, along with his wife, Sue, have been avid supporters of breast cancer research, leading to the Baylor Breast Center being renamed the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Cancer Center at Baylor College of Medicine. Smith was a two-time cancer survivor, and revealed a personal story of hope and optimism, leaving the audience with hope. The Spirit of Courage Award was presented to Maxine Myers. Myers spoke briefly about her personal journey as a three-time breast cancer survivor and thanked all her family and friends who guided her through the journey. Several of the past award recipients were in attendance.

2010 

Swing for the Cure - The Houston Association of REALTORS® and the Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation joined together to help raise funds for breast cancer research at the first Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Golf Tournament. On Monday, May 17, 2010, a total of 18 teams participated in the event held at the Sweetwater Golf Course, raising over $10,000. 

In June, the foundation held its annual “Pink & Blue Jean Day,” where friends, families, real estate, title, and mortgage companies came together to raise over $7,000. 

Participants later gathered for “Cocktails for the Cure,” at Goode’s Armadillo Palace where entertainment was donated by the Big Al Bettis Band.

On October 14, 2010, more than 600 people attended the Annual Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation (NOMF) Luncheon at the Westin Galleria. At the luncheon, the foundation donated $100,000 equally divided among the Houston Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM). This brings the grand total of monies donated by the foundation from 2002 through 2010 to $940,000! The guest speaker for the luncheon was Allen Wilson. As a two-time male breast cancer survivor, Allen’s mission is very clear: to disseminate that this is not “just a girl’s club” and that the breast cancer battle is one of early detection, perseverance and hope! Spirit of Courage Award was presented to Mary Parker. Mary, very much humbled by this honor, spoke briefly about her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor and thanked all her family and friends who guided her through the journey. 

2009 

Pink & Blue Jean Day was again held in June and was followed by Cocktails for the Cure at Goode's Armadillo Palace.

The annual luncheontook place on Tuesday, October 6, 2009. In a year that started with an uncertain economy; it ended with 670 attendees! $90,000 was donated to the Houston Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine. Sharon Dreyer was the Spirit of Courage Award recipient. Dr. Susan Fuqua gave the Breast Cancer Research Update and announced that Dr. Li's project of Stem Cells in Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment would benefit from this year's donation. A very moving and memorable speech was given by Geralyn Lucas who served as our guest speaker. At the age of 27, without a trace of family history, Lucas was diagnosed with breast cancer. Lucas is the author of Why I Wore Lipstick to My Mastectomy.

2008 

On January 30th, Valobra Jewelry and Antiques hosted an appreciation reception for our donors, sponsors and volunteers to celebrate the success for the luncheon.

Pink & Blue Jean Day was again held in June for our annual event. We expanded this event to an evening cocktail hour. Thus, Cocktails for the Cure was created. The event was held at Jimmy Wilson’s Seafood and Chophouse on the patio. The event was a huge success and included a live auction, raising over $10,000.

The luncheon was originally scheduled for Tuesday, September 16, 2008. Hurricane IKE rolled through Houston on September 12th, so the luncheon was postponed to October 21st. Despite the challenge of moving the luncheon, we had over 700 attendees and donated $125,000 to the Houston of Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine. Marcia Wallace, a former TV star was the speaker. She inspired everyone with her stories and courage about being a twenty-year cancer survivor. Helen Michael received the Spirit of Courage Award. Dr. Adrian Lee gave the Breast Cancer Research Update for Dr. Fuqua. This year we included our very first silent auction to the luncheon program. 

2007 

Pink & Blue Jean Day was held in June and raise over $4,000. This fun filled citywide fundraising event was created for a $5 donation, donors can grab their favorite pair of jeans and accessorize with something pink.

We outgrew the J. W. Marriott and moved the annual luncheon to the Westin Galleria, the luncheon took place on Thursday, September 27, 2009 at the Westin Galleria. More than 880 people attended, we donated $120,000 to the Houston Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine. In a slight variation from years past Radio Music Theatredelighted all guests with a number of skits relating to real estate and Houston. The Spirit of Courage Award Winner was Betty Bezemer. Betty was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997; Betty was an inspiration to all and gave a very uplifting speech! A new feature was added to the annual luncheon "The Breast Cancer Research Update" which was given by Dr. Suzanne A. W. Fuqua of Baylor College of Medicine.

Hope Award for Ambassadorship

The Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation was honored at the 2007 Pink Tie Gala of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Houston Affiliate by being awarded the "Hope Award for Ambassadorship". Komenkindly described the NOMF as "an amazing group of dedicated volunteers who take care of every detail of the luncheon ensuring that the monies raised go directly to support breast cancer research. In addition to financial support, the luncheon educates the Houston real estate community about the realities of breast cancer and how the disease affects our community. The Komen Houston Affiliate is grateful to the Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation for their generosity, continuing commitment and passion to end breast cancer forever."

2006 

In June the Foundation started the very first “Pink & Blue Jean Day,” where friends, families, real estate, title, and mortgage companies came together to raise over $2,000. This fun filled citywide fundraising event was created for a $5 donation, donors can grab their favorite pair of jeans and accessorize with something pink.

On September 21, 2006, more than 850 people attended the annual NOMF luncheon-the most successful to date! The foundation was able to donate $110,000 to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Houston Affiliate and the Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine. A milestone was reached; a grand total of monies donated by the foundation since its inception reached $500,000! The guest speaker was TV correspondent, author and breast cancer survivor, Betty Rollin. The third annual Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award was presented to Andrea Potts Snoddy, who was a five-year survivor with an amazing attitude and a community volunteer. New to the luncheon this year was a raffle, which included an autographed football jersey of Houston Texans' David Carr, a night at the Sam Houston Race Park and a 36" HDTV.

John E. Wolf Citizenship Cup Award-2006

This award is given annually by the Houston Association of Realtors to a member who has made outstanding contributions to the community, mainly outside of the real estate industry. In 2006, the recipient was the Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Committee. We were very honored by this award, which was also won by Nancy Owens herself in 2000.

2005 

The annual luncheon proved to be a success despite rescheduling at the last moment due to Hurricane Rita. Nothing stops this committee's determination. More than 750 people attended and a donation of $ 100,000 was presented to this year's recipients: The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Houston Affiliate and the Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine. The guest speaker was author Joni Rodgers, who delivered a moving, motivational, yet humorous speech about writing, survivorship and family. The second annual Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award was presented to Theresa Landa. 

As a new way to raise more money for the cause, artists submitted their favorite artwork for a juried show, and 12 pieces were chosen for the 2006 Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation Calendar. The original art was auctioned at the luncheon.

2004  

The annual luncheon, held on September 24, 2004, topped the previous year's event in size with over 800 people in attendance and financial contributions. Amy Bernstein, chairman, presented a check in the amount of $90,000 to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. The guest speaker was journalist, television producer and best-selling author, Linda Ellerbee, who shared her personal story of triumph over breast cancer. At this year's luncheon, the NOMF presented the first Nancy Owens Spirit of Courage Award to Nancy Elizabeth Garfield. This award recognizes outstanding courage in the face of adversity resulting from the diagnosis of cancer and the courage of an extraordinary individual in the real estate industry who has fought the battle and won! A touching video was shown, culminating with the release of butterflies by the NOMF committee members in celebration of Nancy's birthday. Nancy Curtis, famed soprano, performed a beautiful rendition of "On Eagles Wings".

2003  

The annual luncheon was held September 18, 2003, entitled "Realtors Making a Difference". The luncheon was sold out and attended by 750 people. Maxine Myers was this year's honorary chair. The luncheon included viewing the video, "Nancy Owens-Memories Last Forever" featuring testimonials from several of Owens' friends, colleagues, clients and an excerpt from a speech given by Owens two years previously  when she received the John E. Wolf Citizenship Award from the Houston Association of Realtors. In the speech, she thanked the real estate community for their support, both personally and in the fight against breast cancer. The theme that emerged from many of the others' remarks and that ran through the entire event was "The Power of One," referring to how many lives Nancy had touched. The luncheon raised $80,000 to present to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, whose president and CEO, Susan Braun, was the guest speaker. News Anchor Shara Fryer served as MC.

2002  

The Nancy Owens Memorial Foundation received it’s 501 (c) (3) designation.

On September 12, 2002, the first annual Nancy Owens Memorial Luncheon was held at the JW Marriott. Over 650 people gathered. Dr. Eva Singletary of The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center was the guest speaker. News Anchor, Lisa Foranda served as the MC.  One of the highlights of the event came at the close of the luncheon, when Amy Bernstein presented the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Houston Affiliate with a check in the amount of $60,000. In an exciting turn of events that had everyone on their feet, Maxine Myers, an attendee, graciously announced she would match that amount, making the total donation $120,000. Every  nonprofit should have a fairy godmother as generous as Mrs. Myers, a breast cancer survivor, who was deeply touched by the program.

We are honored to recognize the following Emeritus Committee Members

(listed alphabetically)

Lisa Aaronson

Brent Blaikie

James  Burke

Kimberly Davis

Gail Evans

Cheri Fama

Debera Fontenot

Vicki Fullerton

Raghda Henthorne

Megan Jordan

Kristen Kaufman

Lynn Mather

Mike McFarland

Robin Mueck

Maxine Myers

Nancy Nunu

Terry Pasternak

Phil Rader

Irby Rozelle

Michelle Sandlin

Carla Schraub

Jennifer Stein

Katherine Stewart

Peggy Vineyard

Roxane Witte

Leash Yu