Luncheon speaker Drew Robinson, former Major League Baseball player and suicide attempt survivor
Nearly 600 guests came together on March 25 at the Omni Dallas Hotel for Grant Halliburton Foundation’s 16th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon, an inspiring afternoon featuring Drew Robinson, former Major League Baseball player and suicide attempt survivor. The event raised $300,000 to support the Foundation’s mission to promote youth mental health and prevent suicide across North Texas.
DJ Lucy Wrubel
The morning began with a vibrant welcome reception featuring music by DJ Lucy Wrubel, a celebratory champagne wall, and a variety of engaging activities. Guests mingled over coffee, left uplifting notes on the “Post Your Hope” wall, and enjoyed time with Eric and Elvis, service dogs in training from Patriot Paws. A wide range of exciting raffle packages added to the energy of the morning—including vacation getaways, luxury retail experiences, and one-of-a-kind sports opportunities.
To open the program, guests were treated to a moving performance of “A Million Dreams” by Syncopation, the a cappella choir from Plano West Senior High School—alma mater of the Foundation’s namesake, Grant Halliburton.
Jenny Anchondo, host and producer of CW33’s Inside DFW, welcomed guests, and Father Paul Klitze, rector of Episcopal Church of the Ascension, offered an opening invocation. Guests enjoyed lunch while connecting with friends, advocates, and community leaders.
Luncheon chairs Chris and Brent Bolding expressed gratitude to the Foundation’s staff, volunteers, and event committee, including luncheon vice chairs Amy and Michael Roseman, and founding luncheon chair Barb Farmer.
Foundation Co-founders Alan Halliburton, Vanita Hallibuton and Amy McCloskey
A highlight of the day was the presentation of the 2025 Beacon Award to Vanita Halliburton, co-founder and chairman emeritus of Grant Halliburton Foundation. Her daughter and Foundation co-founder, Amy Halliburton McCloskey, presented the award.
“My mom knew she wanted to do something in his memory to save other families from the tragedy of suicide and help them get the resources they so desperately need,” McCloskey said. “She, my dad, Alan, and I co-founded Grant Halliburton Foundation in 2006 and set out to do just that—to help as many young people and their families as possible to find help, hope and peace of mind.”
A tribute video celebrated Vanita’s leadership and tireless advocacy. The audience gave her a standing ovation as the award—now officially renamed the Vanita Halliburton Beacon Award—was presented.
Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, addressed the crowd following the organization’s mission video.
“I love that video. We are not just an office or a staff. We are a movement—a collective force of educators, parents, students, volunteers and advocates who believe that mental health should never be an afterthought,” Hall said.
He added, “Vanita, your vision has shaped not only this organization, but also the lives of countless people who will feel your impact every single day. Because of you, WE are Grant Halliburton Foundation.'“
Robinson, moderator Eric Nadel, and Robinson’s support dog, Ellie.
The audience then watched a heartfelt video sharing the Boldings’ story and the loss of their daughter, Eleanor.
“We’re pretty sure that every person in this room knows someone struggling with depression, anxiety, or even suicidal thoughts. Please take a moment to remind them that they are not alone. There is help. There is hope,” Brent Bolding said.
The afternoon concluded with a powerful keynote from Robinson. Introduced by Eric Nadel, Texas Rangers radio broadcaster and longtime Foundation supporter, Robinson shared his story through a video before joining Nadel for a conversation onstage.
“Your mind is your servant, not your master. Use our minds to serve us, not tear us down. We control our minds and meditation helps,” Robinson said.
The Beacon of Hope Luncheon continues to shine as one of the Foundation’s signature events, offering not only vital fundraising support, but also an unwavering message that there is help and there is hope.
By T.J. Griffin
Vice President of Communications
