HOUSTON, TX - April 26, 2025 was a beautiful evening in Houston, Texas for a truly unforgettable evening, as Kickstart Kids supporters gathered for the Boots & Black Belts - Chuck Norris 85th Birthday Celebration.

The night honored the life and legacy of our founder, legendary martial artist and philanthropist Chuck Norris, while celebrating the mission and accomplishments of Kickstart Kids.

We were grateful to longtime supporter Linda Lorelle and the lively 93Q Morning Crew share the emcee duties for the evening. The first highlight of the night was the presentation of two prestigious awards.

The Chuck & Gena Norris Character Award, which recognizes individuals or organizations that embody the core values of Kickstart Kids—honesty, loyalty, courage, discipline, respect, dedication, kindness, and responsibility—was awarded to Stewart and Joy Morris, along with their children Stewart III, Faith, and Grace Morris.

Next, the Founder’s Vision Award was presented to Senator Tan and Beth Parker, in recognition of their shared belief in the importance of providing youth with the social and emotional tools needed to navigate adolescence and succeed in life.

Supporters from across Texas and beyond were moved by a heartfelt tribute to Chuck Norris, led by Kickstart Kids Chief Director of Operations John Kurek, who shared the incredible impact Mr. Norris has made through martial arts and mentorship. This tribute was followed by a humorous and nostalgic nod to Walker, Texas Ranger by Southeast Texas Regional Director (Region 1) Derrick Stinson.

The emotional core of the evening came from inspiring testimonials. Joe Halstrom, father of Angela Halstrom, shared how the Kickstart Kids program profoundly impacted his daughter’s life. Born with Down Syndrome and facing various health challenges, Angela found renewed strength and confidence as a student in the program at Pflugerville Middle School under the guidance of instructor Mike Fillmore. After reenacting a famous Walker, Texas Ranger fight scene on stage with her instructor, Angela received a standing ovation.

Following Angela’s story, Ava Torres, a student from Bowie Middle School and aspiring actress with ADHD, shared how Kickstart Kids has helped her focus and build confidence. Ava expressed gratitude for her instructor Robert Nunez, crediting the program for helping her land a role in the upcoming film Way of the Warrior Kid starring Chris Pratt and Levi McConaughey.

The night continued with a jaw-dropping performance by the Kickstart Kids Legacy Team, a united demo team featuring students from Rodeo Palms Junior High (Alvin ISD) and Dulles Middle School (Fort Bend ISD), led by instructors Rommel Paul and Tracy Armstead. Their dynamic demonstration of martial arts techniques, set to a thrilling soundtrack, brought the crowd to their feet.

Following the performance, guests joined in singing “Happy Birthday” to Mr. Norris and enjoyed a celebratory cake. The evening then transitioned into the highly anticipated live auction hosted by Rusty Mertink. Attendees had the opportunity to bid on an exciting array of items, including tickets to see the Backstreet Boys at The Sphere in Las Vegas, a VIP trip to the Country Music Awards in Nashville, an F1 Italian Grand Prix experience in Italy, a private tour of an extensive Elvis Presley memorabilia collection, and much more.

The evening closed with a spectacular live performance by country artist Drake Milligan, whose hit album Jukebox Songs and classic country covers had guests dancing and celebrating late into the night.

The Boots & Black Belts celebration was more than a birthday party—it was a reflection of Chuck Norris’ enduring impact and his belief in building a better future by investing in today’s youth. Kickstart Kids continues that mission by developing character through karate, and we are grateful to everyone who made this night a success.

Save the date for the 2026 Boots and Black Belts Gala on April 25th, 2026.

If you would like to support our mission, visit kickstartkids.org/give, email us at mail@kickstartkids.org, or call (713) 868-6003.