YMCA of Greater Houston Honors Don Valentine of John Moore Services with Inaugural “Steve’s Superhero” Award

HOUSTON, TX -- The YMCA of Greater Houston President and CEO, Stephen Ives, has named Don Valentine of John Moore Services, as the inaugural recipient of the Steve’s Superhero Award, recognizing Don’s visionary leadership and enduring commitment to empowering Houston’s youth. The new award recognition celebrates the spirit of leadership, service, and innovation that defines Houston and honors those who work every day to make the city stronger.

Known for leading with purpose, Ives has focused on developing programs that strengthen the community and open doors of opportunity for all Houstonians. Inspired by the many leaders who share that same commitment, he established the Steve’s Superhero Award to honor those Houston leaders who are driving meaningful change across the region. Throughout the next year, Ives will honor local leaders whose actions and impact continue to move Houston forward and reflect the YMCA of Greater Houston’s mission to create connection and strengthen community.

“I’m excited to introduce this award as a way to uplift and celebrate the people who make Houston such a special place,” said Stephen Ives, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Houston. “Across our city, leaders and organizations are investing in others, creating opportunity and leading with purpose. Don Valentine and John Moore Services embody that spirit, showing how business leadership and community service can work hand in hand to build a stronger Houston.”

Valentine and John Moore Services were recognized for their continued efforts to champion education, innovation, and access for Houston’s youth. Through initiatives such as the John Moore Services STEM Field Trip Experience and the Junior Innovators Program, the company has provided hundreds of local students with hands-on exposure to the trades and inspiration to dream bigger at no cost. These programs demonstrate how businesses can play a vital role in shaping the next generation and investing in the future of the communities they serve.

“I’m truly honored to be recognized by Stephen Ives and the YMCA of Greater Houston,” said Don Valentine of John Moore Services. “For more than 50 years, John Moore Services has been a household name and a trusted partner in this community. We’re proud to give back by helping youth see what’s possible for their future. Investing in Houston’s next generation ensures the city we love continues to thrive.”

The Steve’s Superhero Award represents the next step in the YMCA of Greater Houston and Stephen Ives’ shared mission to bring people together and recognize those who turn purpose into action. By honoring leaders who serve with vision and heart, Ives is building on the findings from YMCA of Greater Houston’s partnership with the Kinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice University, which highlighted the importance of connection and belonging in Houston. Through this recognition, Ives hopes to inspire others to create positive change in their neighborhoods and strengthen the city we all call home.

For more information about the YMCA of Greater Houston, visit www.ymcahouston.org and follow the organization on Facebook @YMCAHouston and Instagram @YMCAHouston.