Community
Community news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
CommunityPharr, Edinburg and McAllen police departments holding National Night Out events
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As the summer winds down, three upper Valley police departments are holding National Night Out events on Tuesday. National Night Out is an annual community-building event campaign that promotes police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie and crime prevention awareness. The Pharr Police Department will host its National Night Out at the Pharr Town Center, located at
CommunityPharr Public Health hosting community baby shower
PHARR, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The city of Pharr's Public Health Department is encouraging all expecting moms in Pharr to register for its community baby shower. The event will take place on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Pharr ONE community building located at 1121 E. Nolana Loop. Participants must be residents
CommunityWeslaco Chamber hosts annual Lemonade Day event
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Weslaco Chamber of Commerce held its annual Lemonade Day event to help promote its youth entrepreneurship program. The event was held on Saturday at Isaac D. Rodriguez Park, located at 1200 E. 6th St. in Weslaco, where attendees participated in family-friendly activities and visited lemonade stands. The program began in 2024
CommunityHidalgo County Precinct 3 Secures 5th Straight Urban County “Quick Draw” Award
Hidalgo County Precinct 3 has achieved the Hidalgo County Urban County 'Quick Draw' Award for the fifth consecutive year, recognizing the Road & Bridge Department's efficiency in project funding and execution. Commissioner Everardo Villarreal praised the department's employees for their dedication and hard work, especially under challenging weather conditions in South Texas. This award underscores the department's commitment to improving local infrastructure, enhancing safety and quality of life for residents. Villarreal expressed gratitude to the team, emphasizing that their efforts in public service are vital for the community's well-being.
CommunityMcAllen Chamber and McAllen EDC to Host Man and Woman of the Year Gala La Catrina, Nov. 5th
The McAllen Chamber of Commerce and the McAllen Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) will host the Man & Woman of the Year Gala titled 'La Catrina' on November 5, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM at Embassy Suites by Hilton in McAllen. This binational event aims to celebrate contributions to the community and invites families and friends from both sides of the border to participate through sponsorships and table purchases. The gala honors 'La Catrina,' a traditional Mexican figure associated with Día de los Muertos, and serves as the Chamber's largest fundraising event for small business and workforce development programs.
CommunityDHR Health to Host 20th Annual Fishing for Hope Tournament Aug. 22
DHR Health will hold its 20th Annual Fishing for Hope Tournament on Saturday, August 22, at Jim’s Pier on South Padre Island. This event aims to raise funds for the Hope Family Health Center, a nonprofit that provides medical care and behavioral health services to uninsured and low-income families in the Rio Grande Valley. Organizers encourage community members to register teams, become sponsors, and participate in raffle activities. Last year's tournament raised over $500,000, making it one of the largest nonprofit fishing tournaments on the Texas coast. For registration, contact DHR Health Events Department at (956) 362-3140.
CommunityDHR Health Invites Community to Join the 20th Annual Fishing for Hope Tournament
DHR Health is hosting the 20th Annual Fishing for Hope Tournament on Saturday, August 22, at Jim’s Pier on South Padre Island. This event unites anglers, local businesses, and community supporters to raise funds for the Hope Family Health Center. The tournament aims to provide essential medical and behavioral health services to uninsured and low-income families in the Rio Grande Valley. Participants can register their teams, become sponsors, and contribute to this meaningful cause that has positively impacted the community for two decades.
CommunityWATCH LIVE: Sunday Mass, Aug. 2, 2026
The Catholic Diocese of Brownsville is broadcasting Sunday Mass live on August 2, 2026, at 11 a.m. Viewers can tune in on SOMOS EL VALLE Channel 5.2 or Cable 1240. For those unable to watch the video, additional options are available.
CommunityAlligator sanctuary experts relocate gator found in Los Fresnos pool
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —The South Padre Island Birding Nature and Alligator Sanctuary captured a 10-foot alligator found swimming in a residential pool in Los Fresnos. Jacob Reinbolt, educator, alligator expert and licensed nuisance alligator trapper with the South Padre Island Birding Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary, said that on Tuesday during a meeting, his phone
Community"Clear the Shelters" Launches Pet Adoption Campaign, Here’s How You Can Participate
"Desocupar los Albergues" has launched its 12th annual pet adoption campaign, aiming to promote animal adoption and raise funds for shelters and rescue organizations. The campaign runs throughout August, while the donation drive began on July 15 and will continue until September 15. Last year's initiative led to over 160,000 adoptions and raised more than $628,000, marking the highest fundraising total since 2020. Since its inception in 2015, the campaign has facilitated the adoption of over 1.3 million pets and collected more than $5.6 million. Interested shelters can register to participate, and donations can be made via ClearTheShelters.com.
CommunityCity of Mercedes welcomes families to free science event
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The city of Mercedes is inviting the community to its annual Earth X Space celebration. The free family-friendly event celebrates science and community building through hands-on activities. Some activities include conservation and astronomy exhibits, live presentations, and a day of science learning with a chance to win prizes. The event will
CommunityThe Next Generation Is Already Leading
At just 27 years old, Felida Villarreal has taken on the role of president and CEO of VIDA, a key workforce development organization in the Rio Grande Valley. Faced with skepticism about her youth and experience, Villarreal has focused on delivering results, expanding educational opportunities and innovative training programs that empower South Texans. She emphasizes that the Valley can cultivate its own leaders and create local economic opportunities. Reflecting on her journey from high school to becoming a CPA and nonprofit leader, Villarreal addresses the challenges of today’s workforce and the importance of supportive systems for student success.
CommunityCalling all artists: McAllen Public Library hosting Youth Bookmark Contest
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The McAllen Public Library is calling on all young artists across the Rio Grande Valley to participate in its 2026 Youth Bookmark Contest. The contest is part of the library's South Texas International Book Festival — an annual celebration of books, culture and imagination. The annual event launched in 2014 as
CommunityGreater Mission Chamber of Commerce to Host Buenas Tardes Luncheon, August 12th
The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) will host its Buenas Tardes Luncheon: Community Spotlight on August 12, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mission Event Center, located at 200 N. Shary Rd., Mission, TX 78572. This event will feature a panel discussion with notable leaders from the Rio Grande Valley, including Byron Lewis, Dr. Elizabeth Chavez, and Isaac Smith, who will share their success stories and insights on business growth and community engagement. Dr. Carlos Margo will moderate the discussion, highlighting the importance of mentorship and investment in the community.
CommunityThe McAllen Citizens League Board Holds Annual Retreat
The McAllen Citizens League (MCL) board recently held its annual retreat at the Doubletree Hotel to strategize for upcoming fall membership meetings. A member survey conducted earlier this summer provided valuable insights for the board's planning. Founded in 1952, MCL aims to benefit its citizens and members through various programs addressing contemporary issues. Topics discussed at meetings include political forums, arts and culture, healthcare, environmental concerns, education, and economic development. Meetings are scheduled for the Fall/Winter and Spring seasons, with details to be announced soon. For more information, contact MCL President Elva M. Cerda at 956-681-2861.
CommunityMcAllen Heritage Center Unveils Civil War Era Exhibit
The McAllen Heritage Center is showcasing a traveling exhibit titled "African Americans Along the US-Mexico Border," part of the larger "War & Peace on the Rio Grande 1861-1867" exhibit. This display highlights the contributions of African American soldiers and pioneer families during the Civil War era along the border. The exhibit will be available until mid-November 2026 at the Heritage Center, located at 301 S. Main St. Admission is free, and donations are encouraged. The center is open Wednesday to Friday from 1 PM to 5 PM and Saturday from 12 PM to 4 PM. For more details, call (956) 687-1904.
CommunityLocal nonprofit provides free baby supplies for Valley families
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — With grocery prices on the rise, a local nonprofit organization is helping Rio Grande Valley families on a no-questions-asked basis. Hannah's Foundation, a nonprofit located at 203 E. Business Highway 83, Suite 110, in Weslaco, was founded by Angelica Ekin with the assistance of her pastor, Lori De Los Santos. Hannah's Foundation
Community4Ever Family: Sisters Analla & Aliiah
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Every week, CBS 4 works to find a forever home for a Rio Grande Valley foster child as part of our “4Ever Family” partnership with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Analla Meet Analla, an 11-year-old who is full of energy and personality. While Analla can be shy around
CommunityLemonade Day Weslaco Returns Saturday, August 1
Lemonade Day Weslaco is set to return on Saturday, August 1, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Isaac D. Rodriguez Park, located at 1200 E. 6th St., Weslaco, TX. Organized by the Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce, this free event will showcase children's lemonade stands, food, and family-friendly activities. Since its inception in 2024, the program has aimed to teach youth aged 6-17 essential skills like financial literacy and leadership through hands-on experience. Local businesses and sponsors have supported this initiative, emphasizing the importance of nurturing future entrepreneurs in the community.