For more than 15 years, H-E-B has been a driving force behind YES Prep’s mission to transform public education in Houston. Since 2009, through the incredible generosity of H-E-B and the H-E-B Tournament of Champions, they’ve invested over $1.25 million—fueling life-changing opportunities for thousands of YES Prep students.
From the beginning, H-E-B has believed in the power of education to change lives. Their early and consistent support helped YES Prep grow from a handful of schools into a thriving district serving more than 20,000 students across Greater Houston. Their strategic investments in elementary literacy and college readiness have shaped the educational journey of every student we serve.
But their impact goes far beyond dollars. H-E-B lives its values. From delivering essential supplies to families in need to donating floral arrangements for community events, their culture of service shows up time and again in meaningful, heartfelt ways.
“At H-E-B, we believe strong communities start with strong schools—and YES Prep proves that every day. We’re proud to support their mission and honored to help thousands of students unlock their full potential,” shares Lisa Helfman, Managing Director of Public Affairs, H-E-B Houston
To celebrate this extraordinary partnership, H-E-B received the Chris Barbic Legacy Award at our 8th Annual Leading Houston Forward Luncheon on October 24, 2024. Named after YES Prep’s founder, the award honors long-standing champions who’ve made a deep and lasting mark. H-E-B is the epitome of that legacy—impactful, generous, and all-in for Houston’s youth.
H-E-B’s partnership with YES Prep is part of something bigger: a bold, unwavering commitment to building stronger communities across Houston and Texas. It’s proof that when businesses lead with purpose, the results are transformational.
To H-E-B: thank you for believing in our students, investing in their futures, and helping to shape a brighter Houston. You're not just supporting education; you’re strengthening our community, one student at a time.