Surprise Birthday Celebration Honoring Alan Helfman

Alan Helfman, also known as “Mr. Philanthropy,” was inspired by his parents’ example to live a philanthropic life. He is known throughout Houston for his kind heart and generosity.

Alan is president of his family’s group of five Helfman Auto Dealerships in Houston. He is a native of Houston and studied business at the University of Texas. Alan sits on a variety of boards, including, but not limited to, Texas Southern University; Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center; University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston; Houston Police Department Foundation; Houston Fire Department Foundation; and Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Center.

Regularly honored by the Houston Astros for his philanthropy, he threw out the first pitch at their game on June 27 for the fifth time, as they faced the Chicago Cubs at 7:10 pm at Daikin Park. Helfman holds the record for the “highest leg kick of the ceremonial first pitch.” Maintaining this record is no small feat. Helfman says he follows a strict year-round regimen to stay flexible, nimble, and strong, including kicking his leg over certain chair heights and deep stretching.

Event organizer Treveia Dennis has lost two sons and a brother. Her husband, David Dennis, lost his mother and sister. They know how powerful a kind word or thoughtful gesture can be.

Houston’s official Random Acts of Kindness Day is celebrated on July 25th. With proclamations from former Mayors Annise Parker and Sylvester Turner, the Dennises and their team of volunteers and local businesses make this annual event possible.

The purpose of the event is to bring together businesses, schools, churches, individuals, and organizations to encourage empathy and compassion by performing random acts of kindness. The goal is to deliver a message of hope and demonstrate how meaningful impact can be achieved by anyone, regardless of available resources.