In March 2025, the Harlingen Area Educational Foundation (HAEF) proudly hosted its annual Friends of HAEF event — a heartfelt celebration of community, generosity, and educational excellence.
This year’s event was a resounding success, raising over $110,000 to support HAEF’s mission. These funds directly benefit innovative classroom grants, the annual scholarship program, and other impactful initiatives that empower students and educators across Harlingen CISD.
We were honored to feature three dynamic celebrity teams who dedicated their time and energy to this cause:
Dr. Veronica Kortan, Superintendent of Harlingen CISD
Anna & Benito Garcia
Dr. Manny & Dr. Erica Espinoza
These community leaders championed fundraising efforts leading up to the event, engaging supporters through raffles, bingo, lotería, personal outreach, and creative platforms that brought people together for a shared purpose.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
We extend our deepest gratitude to the local businesses and sponsors who stood behind our celebrity fundraisers. Your support is an investment in the future of Harlingen — helping us nurture the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and innovators.
Together, we’re making a lasting impact. Thank you for being a Friend of HAEF.
Lupita Muniz
Manny Vela
Ruthie Ewers
Dr Linda Burke
Dr Bonnie Villarreal De La Rosa
Dr. Rolando Posada
Rose Snell
Dr. Victoria Parada
Gus Ruiz
Jacob Boggus
Former HPD Chief Jeffrey Adicks
Mr Martha Cano
Benito and Ana Garcia
Dr. Manny and Dr Erica Espinoza
Dr. Arturo Cavazos
Dr. Alicia Noyola
Dr. J.A. Gonzalez