Press Release

HOUSTON (December 21, 2007) – Houston-based Kanaly Trust Company, at their annual Holiday party on Thursday, Dec. 6, honored Douglass M. Stewart and his wife Patricia of Palm City, Fla., with the E. Deane Kanaly Philanthropic Award in recognition of their ongoing commitment and service to the community.

The E. Deane Kanaly Philanthropic Award was created to preserve the memory of the late Deane Kanaly, long-time philanthropist and Kanaly Trust Company founder, by recognizing individuals who have made a substantial impact upon their community. The annual award is given to a client of Kanaly Trust Company who displays a strong personal commitment to the betterment of society. A $10,000 contribution to the honoree’s charity of choice is included with the award, which will be given to the Safe Space organization.

 

Located in Martin County, Fla., Safe Space is an organization which provides emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and their children. The Stewarts have spent their lives putting time and funds back into the community in a variety of ways including endless support and financial contributions for Safe Space.

 

Last December, the Stewarts saw an immediate need for a new 24-bed shelter in Martin County to house abused women and children. Working with Safe Space management, community leaders, volunteers and architects, they established a matching gift media fundraising campaign. A year later, the construction of the new facility is nearing completion due to their determination.

 

Phillip Hamman, the Stewarts account officer at Kanaly, was honored upon hearing the news that his long-time friends and clients would receive this award.

 

“The Safe Space as it is today would not have existed if it were not for the vision, passion and hard work of this couple,” Hamman said. “They have been an excellent example to all of us, showing that it does not matter what a person’s age or status in life is, anyone can make a difference in their community.”

 

Along with the generosity to the Safe Space organization, the Stewarts give seven scholarships to Oklahoma University every year, three of which are designated for Native Americans. They have also donated substantial funds to the Library Foundation of Martin County and the Martin Memorial Hospital Foundation.

 

“It is never too late to give of yourself to others,” Hamman said. “Life is not about receiving but giving.”