Grant Halliburton Foundation is marking its 20th anniversary in 2026, commemorating two decades of work focused on youth mental health and suicide prevention education for North Texas communities. Founded in 2006, the Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals with its mental health education, resources, and support programs.

Throughout the year, the Foundation will recognize this milestone by highlighting its history, amplifying its mission and impact, and presenting its signature annual events through a 20th anniversary lens.

“Out of the grief of losing my brother, Grant, to suicide, my parents, Vanita and Alan, and I co-founded Grant Halliburton Foundation in 2006, fueled by the desire to help save others from such devastating loss,” said Amy McCloskey, Foundation co-founder. “What began as a way to honor Grant’s memory has grown into an organization dedicated to helping young people and families navigate mental health challenges and prevent suicide.”

The Foundation’s earliest efforts were rooted in art and creativity. From the time Grant Halliburton could grasp a pencil, he expressed himself through his art. In 2006, Grant Halliburton’s artwork was featured in an exhibition titled Journey, and the Foundation awarded its first art scholarship to a graduating student from Plano West Senior High School, where Grant attended high school. That inaugural event laid the foundation for a mission that has grown to bring lifesaving help and hope to young people and families today.

In recognition of that history, the Foundation will host a 20th Anniversary Art Show in September during National Suicide Prevention Month, reimagining its first event with community programming, educational activations, and opportunities for reflection and connection, centered around an exhibition of Grant’s artwork. Additional details will be announced later this year.

“Grant was an artist in the truest sense of the word, and he was extremely talented in art and music. His vibrant, creative spirit—and his deep love for people—continue to inspire the work we do today,” McCloskey said.

Other anniversary-focused programming in 2026 includes a Galleria Dallas Gallery Wall installation in May during Mental Health Awareness Month, as well as the Foundation’s annual fundraising events, including Beacon of Hope featuring Steve Burns (March 13), Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit (May 14), and The Hope Party (Nov. 20).

“Our 20th anniversary is both a celebration and a call to action,” Kevin Hall, Grant Halliburton Foundation president, said. “As we celebrate throughout the year, these events represent more than milestones on a calendar—they reflect the community of supporters, volunteers, and partners, who make our work possible.”

Suicide remains a critical public health concern. National data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show suicide is the second-leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24 in the United States. In Texas, on average, we lose a teen to suicide every day, and two per week in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, underscoring the ongoing need for prevention, education and early intervention.

“We’ve made meaningful progress in changing the conversation around youth mental health, and we know our work is making a difference,” Hall said. “When young people are supported early, and communities are equipped with the right resources, lives can be changed. That belief, and the hope it brings, will continue to guide our work for the next 20 years and beyond.”

GRANT HALLIBURTON FOUNDATION MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION AND RESOURCES

Youth Education
Grant Halliburton Foundation offers presentations for K–12 students that address key aspects of mental health in engaging and age-appropriate ways. Topics include stress management, resilience, depression, bullying, and suicide prevention.

Adult Education
Presentations for parents, educators, and professionals focus on promoting mental wellness, building resilience, and recognizing warning signs of depression and suicidal crisis in youth.

Peer Helpers PLUS
Peer Helpers PLUS is a comprehensive, school-based peer-to-peer suicide prevention and support program that empowers students with leadership skills, character development, and healthy coping strategies. The program fosters connection and belonging while helping students thrive academically and personally.

When Life Hands You Teenagers
When Life Hands You Teenagers is an annual conference held each September, featuring expert speakers on adolescent mental health. The event is open to parents, educators, counselors, mentors, and anyone who lives or works with teens.

Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line
The Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line helps callers find mental health and substance use resources that fit their needs. This free helpline connects individuals with trained mental health navigators who provide guidance and information about services in their area. Call 972-525-8181 Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Spanish-language assistance is available.

HereForTexas.com
Developed by Grant Halliburton Foundation, HereForTexas.com is a searchable online database of Texas mental health providers and resources. Users can search by provider type, mental health concern, age group, language, location, payment options, and other helpful filters.

Coffee Days and Charlas Con un Cafecito
The Foundation offers Coffee Days and Charlas con un Cafecito peer support groups in English and Spanish. Both groups are for moms and female caretakers of young people with mental health and emotional health conditions, offering opportunities to share experiences, resources and information.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation: Grant Halliburton Foundation was established in 2006 in memory of a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder for several years before his suicide death at the age of 19. The Foundation that bears his name works to help prevent suicide by providing education, resources and support for children, teen and young adult mental health. For 20 years, the Foundation has provided mental health education and training to more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals. The Foundation also offers help and support through HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community tools provide easy access for Texans seeking information and resources for mental health and substance abuse. Learn more at GrantHalliburton.org.

2026 FOUNDATION EVENTS

MARCH 2026
• 17th Annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon
March 13 | Omni Dallas Hotel
Featuring a conversation with Steve Burns, original host of “Blue’s Clues,” focused on mental health, burnout, and the importance of asking for help.

APRIL 2026
• National Volunteer Month Event
Date and Location TBD
Recognition of the volunteers whose dedication has supported the Foundation’s mission for 20 years and helped expand its reach across North Texas.

MAY 2026
• Mental Health Awareness Month
Month-long education and awareness

• Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit
May 14 | Longhorn Ballroom
The signature fundraising event of Eric Nadel, Legendary Radio Voice of the Texas Rangers, benefiting the Foundation’s youth mental health education and suicide prevention efforts.

• Galleria Dallas Gallery Wall
Month-long visual installation highlighting the Foundation’s mission and 20 years of impact.

SEPTEMBER 2026
• 20th Anniversary Art Show Exhibition
A special month-long exhibition commemorating the Foundation’s origins and its very first event in 2006—an art show featuring Grant Halliburton’s artwork—reimagined with weekly events, activations, and community engagement.

• National Suicide Prevention Month
Education, outreach, and awareness initiatives focused on prevention, connection, and access to support.

• When Life Hands You Teenagers Conference
Date TBD | Plano Event Center
A mental health conference for parents, educators, and anyone who lives or works with teens.

• North Texas Giving Day
September 17
A community-wide call to support lifesaving mental health programs and resources.

NOVEMBER 2026
• 17th Annual Hope Party
November 20 | The Statler
The Foundation’s signature fundraising gala celebrating hope, community, and 20 years of impact.

Steve Burns, best known as the original host of Nickelodeon’s “Blue’s Clues,” will be the featured speaker at Grant Halliburton Foundation’s 17th Annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Omni Dallas Hotel (555 S. Lamar St., Dallas). Burns will present “The Cost of Showing Up Happy: Burnout and the Wisdom of Asking for Help.”

The luncheon is the first fundraising event of Grant Halliburton Foundation’s 20th anniversary year.

As the implacably happy, beloved host of “Blue’s Clues,” Steve Burns was the guy who sang, danced and cheerfully bolstered children’s self-esteem. What most don’t know is that he was doing so with undiagnosed severe clinical depression. He will talk about the following:

• What is the cost of forcing joy?

• How can one maintain peak-level achievement and be completely burned out at the same time?

• And once it’s all over, how do you re-engage with your own life when the tank is completely empty?

Burns will share lessons from his own struggles as “the happiest depressed person in North America” and how he has learned to apply the messages he shared with an entire generation.

The Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon supports Grant Halliburton Foundation’s work to provide education, resources and support for children, teen and young adult mental health. Event sponsorships and underwriting range from $600 to $25,000. Individual tickets go on sale in February for $250.To learn more and to purchase a sponsorship or underwriting opportunity, visit GrantHalliburton.org/boh.

Amy and Michael Roseman and Meredith and David Camp are the 2026 Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon co-chairs. The founding luncheon chair is Barb Farmer.

Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, said, “Steve helped shape how generations of children learned about curiosity, kindness, and problem-solving. We’re honored to hear his honest story and how those same values continue to guide his approach to mental health today.”

Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to nearly 350,000 students, educators, parents and professionals, thanks to funds raised from the Beacon of Hope Luncheon.

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among Texas youth ages 10-24 (CDC). The Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon aims to bring focus to the vital work needed to educate the North Texas community on adolescent mental health and suicide prevention. Through its work in North Texas schools and communities, Grant Halliburton Foundation aims to change this reality as it works to promote awareness and understanding of teen and young adult mental health and to prevent suicide.

About Steve Burns: Steve Burns is best known as the original host of Nickelodeon’s “Blue’s Clues,” where he spent seven surreal years solving mysteries with a cartoon dog and a talking mailbox. Then he disappeared. On purpose.

Since then, Steve has released indie rock albums, toured with The Flaming Lips, wrote the theme song for “Young Sheldon,” been a host and storyteller for The Moth and currently hosts the new podcast “Alive with Steve Burns.” In 2021 and 2024, he went massively viral by quietly breaking the internet with a heartfelt message to a generation of now-grown-up viewers.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation:
Grant Halliburton Foundation was established in 2006 in memory of a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder for several years before his suicide death at the age of 19. The Foundation that bears his name works to help prevent suicide by providing education, resources, and support for children, teen, and young adult mental health. Over the past 19 years, the Foundation has provided mental health education and training to more than 350,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals. The Foundation also offers help and support through HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community tools provide easy access for Texans seeking information and resources for mental health and substance abuse. Learn more at GrantHalliburton.org.

The 2025 Breakthrough T1D Dallas Luncheon, held on November 20 at Brook Hollow Golf Club, brought together a passionate community of nearly 200 families, supporters, volunteers, and leaders united by one goal: accelerating progress toward cures for type 1 diabetes. Hosted by longtime CBS 11 Texas news anchor and dedicated T1D mom Karen Borta, the afternoon opened with her heartfelt welcome and personal story about her daughter Kylie’s diagnosis at age 13. She acknowledged the incredible impact of Breakthrough T1D on her family and celebrated the luncheon’s milestone—more than $1 million raised to date for life-changing research and community programs.

Karen then introduced Deborah Sloan, president of the Breakthrough T1D Dallas Board of Directors and a partner at Jones Day. Deborah shared her family’s connection through her son Clayton, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 4 and is now 21 and thriving at NYU. She highlighted how the many advancements have improved his daily life. She also emphasized the momentum of the chapter, which raised more than $6 million last year, and invited guests to upcoming events including the Dallas Gala in April and a Mahjong tournament in December.

Next, Territory Executive Director Amy Camp offered an energizing update on Breakthrough T1D’s mission. She detailed the organization’s global push toward what the T1D community needs now and next: advancing more than 400 research projects and 11 clinical trials, expanding early detection, driving disease-modifying therapies, and accelerating progress toward cures. She noted Breakthrough T1D’s $146 million investment in research last year, amplified to $521 million through strategic partnerships.

“We can’t do this on our own – this is powered by people like you,” Camp said. “We stand on the shoulders of so many who have supported these efforts, which is why we continue to see such meaningful advances. We thank the Roosevelt family, who launched the luncheon in 2013 and helped grow it into a celebrated annual event that has now raised over $1.2 million for T1D research.” She also expressed her gratitude to the many sponsors whose generosity makes the luncheon possible.

Camp then welcomed the 2025 Luncheon Chairs, Susan and Jim Baldwin, longtime volunteers with Breakthrough T1D. They shared their personal connection to the mission as the parents of their daughter Sarah, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 9. Jim reflected on the shock and steep learning curve their family faced 23 years ago and described how today’s advancements—made possible through ongoing research—have greatly increased Sarah’s independence and safety as she builds her life in New York.  Jim added, “Progress is possible.” Their gratitude for the generosity in the room was unmistakable and deeply heartfelt.

After recognizing the host committee and generous sponsors, including Stage Sponsor Allie Beth Allman & Associates, Valet Sponsor Eiseman Jewels, Program Sponsor Sanofi, and Youth Ambassador Sponsor Sterner Sedeño Communications —Borta introduced the event’s highly anticipated keynote speaker, actor and singer Ryan McCartan. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 6, McCartan has built an impressive career on stage and screen. He recently completed a Broadway run as Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby. His additional credits include Fiyero in the 15th anniversary cast of Wicked, Prince Hans in the closing cast of Frozen, and the originating role of Jason Dean in the Off-Broadway production of Heathers. He has also appeared in numerous television roles, most notably as Diggie Smalls on the Disney Channel’s Liv and Maddie.

McCartan delivered an inspiring and humorous keynote about growing up with T1D. Highlights include:

• Referencing Nick Jonas: “I had been on the Disney Channel for many years but was only the second most famous Disney diabetic. Do you know who is number one? Nick Jonas!  I remember watching him and thinking I could do that. Today I’m here to speak not as Nick Jonas—but as the next best thing.”
• Early diagnosis: “I had no understanding of why I was constantly thirsty, shaky, exhausted, and frequently wetting the bed. It was all due to chronic high blood sugar.”
  • First experience managing T1D:  Attendinga Minnesota clinic, he learned to check his blood sugar and manage insulin – something he has done on his own ever since: “The suite of tools they used back then were actually developed by JDRF, now Breakthrough T1D, so you could say I have come full circle speaking here today.”  
  • Two areas of awareness: the importance of education and the power of levity. “I believe in the power of laughter and talking to others. I remember my first conversation with an agent who told me not to tell anyone about my diabetes as it was a potential burden. Now, just a week ago, I’m on a billboard in New York acknowledging I have diabetes – it’s not a secret, it’s a fact.  That’s a breakthrough.”
  • How he got his start: From a middle-class family, he was discovered at age 7 after being asked to sing at his sister’s voice lesson. “The teacher was looking for a young boy for a musical, and I got a call the next day.”
  • How T1D helped shape his career: “All my life I have been showing up, following directions, and paying attention—that’s what had been keeping me alive.” It was assumed he was an experienced actor because his teacher had exaggerated his background, though his only experience was managing diabetes. When the lead left a Halloween rehearsal for trick-or-treating, Ryan stepped in. “I had no interest in that—candy was a new poison, and as for a normal childhood, that ship had sailed. I got the lead, which led to more opportunities.”
  • Reflecting on T1D: “T1D has made me resilient, empathetic, and motivated. The louder and prouder you live with your circumstances, the more you get back. Nothing feels better than giving the keynote speech for the organization that saved your life.”
  • Looking ahead: “My story isn’t over. There are children, teens, and adults whose stories are just beginning. My dream for the future is that we do such a good job that we don’t need these types of luncheons anymore because we cured T1D… and we usher in an era where Disney and Broadway stars are just really good actors.”

Additional attendees included: Jen Burns, Amy Donovan, Natalie and Houston Duncan, Deborah Gunter, Richard Eiseman, Ola Fojtasek, Nirada Koonrugsa-Fritz and Anders Fritz, Tricia and Kenn George, Rohini Mehdiratta, Melissa Richards, Kim and David Roosevelt, Melissa Sherrill, Lisa Singleton, Janice and Gary Walsh, Sharyl and John Weber, and Terry Van Willson.

The afternoon concluded with a Q&A, leaving attendees inspired, connected, and motivated to continue driving progress. Thanks to the generosity and passion in the room, the 2025 Dallas Luncheon strengthened the momentum toward a world where type 1 diabetes is no longer part of anyone’s story.

(photo credit: Tamytha Cameron)

Grant Halliburton Foundation held its 16^th annual Hope Party on Nov. 21 at The Statler in downtown Dallas with more than 530 supporters in attendance. The event raised a record-breaking $620,000+ through sponsorships, underwriting, tickets, live and silent auctions, a wine and spirits pull, and the Sips and Sparkles champagne wall, where attendees played for a chance to win a one-carat diamond donated by Sue Gragg Precious Jewels. Funds raised support the Foundation’s work providing mental health education, resources and support to North Texas youth and their families.

At the Welcome Reception, DJ RomiQ spun lively music to create a party atmosphere. Attendees sipped beverages and visited with friends, all while perusing and bidding on more than 250 silent auction items. The Platinum and Ruby Sponsors and VIPs were invited to the VIP Lounge to enjoy small bites and a private bar, underwritten by Martha and Hon. Douglas Lang.

The ballroom featured Bordeaux red accents and beautiful floral creations by Floral and Décor Underwriter, CONCEPTO. The stage was draped in dramatic red draping thanks to PARTY! Dallasand Todd Fiscus.

The emcees were Emmy-winning local TV personalities Steve Noviello from Fox 4 and Jenny Anchondo from CW33. Event co-chairs were Karla Noone, who volunteered on the 2024 event committee, and Reed Robertson, who co-chaired the 2024 Hope Party.

Robertson thanked Christopher Barkley Foundation for being the presenting sponsor for the third year in a row. “You never know whose life you might be changing by simply standing shoulder to shoulder with them and helping to build a better, more inclusive cornerstone for tomorrow, one veil lifted at a time.”

Noone told about her involvement with youth mental health, especially through Hope Squad, where her two sons are both members. “Grant Halliburton Foundation’s programs equip students not only to recognize the signs of struggle sooner; they teach them to speak up earlier and to support each other without fear.”

Rev. Doyle Dietz Allen gave the invocation. Evan Knight then played the saxophone while guests enjoyed their dinner.

After a mission video, Kevin Hall, Grant Halliburton Foundation president, spoke about the collaborations with other groups to reach even more youth with life-saving mental health programs. He also told how the Foundation assembled trauma and grief resources during the devastating Texas Hill Country floods through its Here For Texas mental health provider network.

Amy Halliburton McCloskey, Grant’s sister and Grant Halliburton Foundation co-founder, said, “While we are still heartbroken, we also feel immense gratitude for Grant’s life and for the enduring mission of this Foundation that has helped so many families and saved so many lives. Every call answered, every person educated, and every life saved renews our dedication to this critical mission.”

Auctioneer Jake Addams conducted the live auction featuring sports suites, travel destinations and a concert. The most popular item was the private home in San Miguel, which fetched top dollar and sold to three different people, thanks to the donor. The fundraising concluded with the paddle raise where generous donors contributed to the Foundation.

AURA played while guests danced and socialized. After the event concluded, some stayed for The Encore After Party featuring DJ Lucy Wrubel, presented by Sagefield Capital, where the party continued.

Special thanks to these generous sponsors:

Platinum Sponsor (Presenting): Christopher Barkley Foundation

Ruby: Alexander Family G3 Giving Fund, Khaite, Lockton, Lyda Hill Philanthropies, Maria and Jock Stafford

Emerald: Shelley and Jeff Becker, Jennfer and Tom Karol, Sloan and Tyler Milton, Nancy and Mitchell Spector, Tom Ford

Additional sponsors and underwriters: https://www.granthalliburton.org/hopeparty

Learn more about the Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org

(photo credit: Simon Luna Photography) 

Lyric Stage, a theatre company dedicated to the development and preservation of the musical, presents Forever Plaid - Plaid Tidings, a holiday classic by Stewart Ross. The show runs from December 5-21 at the Lyric Stage Studio located at 1170 Quaker St., Dallas, TX 75207. General admission tickets and reserved café tables, ranging from $42.50 to $62.50, are now on sale at https://www.lyricstage.org/season32.

Scott Guenther, Lyric Stage managing and co-artistic director, said, “This family friendly show was so popular last year that we are having an encore! There are well-loved pop songs from the mid-20^th century, comedy and an interactive portion with the audience that makes it engaging.”

Director is Mary Gilbreath Grim; Kelly McCain is the choreographer, and Hans Grim is the music director.

Key roles are as follows: Anthony Ortega as Francis; Daniel Hernandez as Sparky;

Shane Duckett as Jinx; and Ben Meaders as Smudge.

Storyline: At first, Francis, Jinx, Smudge and Sparky aren't sure why they've returned to Earth for another posthumous performance, but a phone call from the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know that they're needed to put a little harmony into a discordant world. Sprinkled among the Christmas offerings are audience favorites, like their riotous three-minute-and-eleven-second version of The Ed Sullivan Show – this time, featuring the Rockettes, the Chipmunks and The Vienna Boys Choir, as well as a Plaid Caribbean Christmas that puts the "Day-O" in Excelsis!

The production is rated G.

For more information: https://www.lyricstage.org/season32

Tickets: https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/tix/7561

About Lyric Stage:

Lyric Stage, a Dallas-based 501c3 not-for-profit professional musical theatre company, was established in 1993 with the mission of the development and preservation of the musical, a unique art form. In its thirty-year history, Lyric Stage has produced more than 125 productions, which include 21 world-premiere musicals and two Off-Broadway shows. For more information, visit www.lyricstage.org

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