UNITED WAY OF SOUTH TEXAS ANNOUNCES THE 2025 SOUTH TEXAS HERO OF THE YEAR
United Way of South Texas invests in programs that address critical community needs in the areas of Healthy Communities, Youth Opportunities, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency. Through partnerships with more than 21 local nonprofit agencies, United Way supports services that reach over 200,000 residents across the region.
Services provided through United Way of South Texas partner agencies include:
- Emergency shelter
- Family violence counseling
- Character-building programs
- Infant stimulation classes
About the South Texas Hero Award
The South Texas Hero Award is a distinguished recognition presented to an individual who demonstrates unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership in the community through dedicated engagement in year-round service projects. Established in 2008 in honor of Ray Alexander, retired General Manager of KRGV TV 5, the award celebrates those who advance United Way’s mission of improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community.
The late Larry C. Gonzalez of PlainsCapital Bank was named the 2025 South Texas Hero for his lasting impact and dedication to the community. A respected leader and former United Way Board Chairman, Mr. Gonzalez was honored posthumously during the Volunteer & Company Awards Ceremony on April 1, 2026.
Larry C. Gonzalez’s Contributions
Mr. Gonzalez served as the 2025 Board Chairman, a United Way Board Member for three years, and as Finance Co-Chair for two years, bringing valuable leadership and insight to the organization. A proud Texas A&M University graduate with 40 years of commercial banking experience, he was known for empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to achieve financial stability and success.
His dedication to service extended to numerous organizations, including:
- United Way of South Texas
- Rio Grande Valley Partnership
- Starr County Industrial Foundation
- Our Lady of Sorrows
- Several local Chambers of Commerce
Past South Texas Hero Recipients
- Gerardo Paz, Riverside Compliance Group
- Blanca I. Villalobos, IBC Bank
- Tyler Stone, Rioco Partners
- John Herrera, Magic Valley Electric Co-op (retired)
- Dr. Marla Guerra, South Texas ISD (retired)
- Adrian Villarreal, IBC Bank
- Lee Jones, AEP Texas (retired)
- Steve Ahlenius, McAllen Chamber of Commerce
- Joe Vera, III †, City of McAllen
- Commissioner “Eddie” Cantu, Hidalgo County Precinct 2
- H-E-B
Community members who wish to support United Way programs may do so through a tax-deductible monetary donation by mailing a check to United Way of South Texas, P.O. Box 187, McAllen, TX 78505-0187.