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NETWORK

Opened in March 1986, NETWORK is a community service organization a 501(c)(3) non-profit, charity that assists those in need, primarily in North Dallas, Lake Highlands, Garland and Richardson, living within the Richardson Independent School District.

NETWORK's mission – Caring, Coaching and Empowering our neighbors in need as they seek an improved quality of life.

NETWORK responds by providing short-term assistance with the goal of helping our clients achieve long-term independence in the following areas:

• Food Room
• Seniors’ Net
• Clothes Closet
• Adolescence/Children's Health and Dental Clinic
• Santa Program
• Individual Case Management
• School Supply Program
• Utility/Housing Assistance
• Counseling & More

The Richardson ISD area is truly a stronger community due to the effort of this valued organization. All net proceeds from the Golf Classic and Marathon benefit NETWORK.

Click here to visit our 2010 Annual report

The Independent Charities Seal of Excellence is awarded to the members of Independent Charities of America and Local Independent Charities of America that have, upon rigorous independent review, been able to certify, document, and demonstrate on an annual basis that they meet the highest standards of public accountability, program effectiveness, and cost effectiveness. These standards include those required by the US Government for inclusion in the Combined Federal Campaign, probably the most exclusive fund drive in the world. Of the 1,000,000 charities operating in the United States today, it is estimated that fewer than 50,000, or 5 percent, meet or exceed these standards, and, of those, fewer than 2,000 have been awarded this Seal. In 2010, NETWORK was awarded this Seal of Excellence.

NETWORK has been fortunate to be one of the recipients of the Dallas Morning News Charities for over 10 years, yet that contribution is less than 10% of our annual income. Events like the NETWORK Golf Classic are crucial in obtaining funds to support our programs and services.

BILLYE MEYER ... a legend in her time

The NETWORK Golf Classic(formally the Billye Meyer Golf Classic), is named in honor of Ms. Billye Meyer, who was a long time leader and icon of the Richardson Community and is now an honorary Board Member of NETWORK. After a long professional career in the banking industry, Billye became one of the most active civic volunteers in Richardson and gave countless hours of support to a long list of civic and service organizations. Besides serving as Vice President on NETWORK’S Board of Directors and NETWORK’s Advisory Council, she served on the boards of numerous other organizations including: Altrusa, Cancer Society, Chamber of Commerce, City Arts Commission, Financial Women International, Leadership Richardson, Wildflower Festival, the Richardson Symphony Orchestra, and the Junior League of Richardson. Billye, was an active member of Rotary International, attended a Rotary meeting in Africa dressed in full tribal gear. Billye stated it was the most difficult meeting of her life, not because she had to walk to the meeting barefoot, but because women were not allowed to speak at all during the meeting. That was contrary to Billye’s nature but in her “I can do anything” manner she was able to keep silent.

One of the most striking things about Billye was how she dressed and the beautiful and colorful hats that she always wore to church, work, and professional activities. She was affectionally known as the "hat lady". As a tribute to her and a reminder to participants in the NETWORK Golf Classic, a golf cart will cruise the course and be adorned with a large colorful hat.

The Richardson Jaycees created the Billye Meyer Service Award to honor her efforts in support of education and programs that provide services to the poor. Billye Meyer mentored numerous students in RISD, and supported a wide variety of educational programs and projects.

80th Texas Legislature Resolution Honoring Billye Meyer

In May of 2006 Billye Meyer passed away and now each year’s Golf Classic will be a tribute to her. Prior to her death, Billye made a personal request to one of the tournament volunteers ... which was "Please Keep It Going". NETWORK is extremely grateful to Billye Meyer for allowing her name to be permanently attached to this event.