Career and Recovery Resources, Inc., a non-profit United Way agency that helps persons identify and overcome barriers to employment, raised $207,000 and celebrated two outstanding Houston leaders during its 14th Annual Barrier Breaker Award Luncheon.

The big event was held on Tuesday, June 29 at the Hyatt Regency Houston, and more than 400 agency supporters attended the ceremony honoring the achievements of Gerald and Anita Smith.

The Smiths were chosen for the award because of their outstanding community leadership, advocacy and civic activities within the Houston community. Gerald B. Smith is chairman and chief executive officer of Smith, Graham & Company Investment Advisors; Anita Smith is an interior designer and director of her own company, Webb Design Interiors. Both are committed to CRR’s mission of helping others identify and overcome barriers to employment.

Luncheon Co-Chairs were Leslie and Jack Blanton, Jr., Alice Aanstoos and Mark Yust, Beverly and William Harmon, Vrinda and Dinesh Pejaver, Marsha and Tom Ramsey, Joyce and Ambassador Arthur Schechter, and Patti and Gary Tuma. Event underwriters included Cooper Industries and Gerald and Anita Smith.

Luncheon proceeds benefit the agency’s employment and training programs. Career and Recovery Resources offers specialized employment programs for job seekers who often have multiple barriers to employment. Services include adult basic literacy classes, computer classes, career counseling, job search preparation, intensive case management for job placement and retention, substance abuse treatment, prevention and education, among others.

To learn more about Career and Recovery Resources and the work they do, please visit careerandrecovery.org.