“San Antonio’s Own” KENS 5 was named as a Corporate Champion Award winner for its work with Communities In Schools and its annual Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive.
SAN ANTONIO — SAN ANTONIO — KENS 5 has been named as a Corporate Champion Award recipient in the 42nd Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards, the highest recognition for volunteerism in Texas, according to the OneStar Foundation, which administers the awards.
The station was recognized during National Volunteer Month at a ceremony held Wednesday evening at the Texas Governor’s Mansion in Austin.
First Lady Cecilia Abbott, honorary chair of the Governor’s Volunteer Awards, announced the recipients in a statement released by her office, praising Texans whose service is “making a lasting difference” across the state.
“I am honored to recognize this year’s Governor’s Volunteer Awards recipients as Texans whose commitment to service is making a lasting difference,” she said in the release. “Their dedication reminds us that service has the power to unite communities, uplift neighbors, and inspire others to step forward.”
KENS 5 was selected for its sustained commitment to mentorship and community service in San Antonio. For more than a decade, station employees have partnered with Communities In Schools of San Antonio to mentor high school students through the InspireU Workplace Mentors program, helping students build confidence and communication skills and identify career goals.
The station also was recognized for its role in the annual Stuff The Bus School Supply Drive, which uses KENS 5’s broadcast and digital platforms to encourage community donations. In 2024, coverage of the drive generated more than 5.9 million impressions and helped provide school supplies to students in 140 schools.
KENS 5 News Director Jack Acosta said the recognition reflects the station’s long-standing focus on service to South Texas.
“On behalf of everyone at KENS 5, we’re proud to shine a light on the people and students building a better future,” Acosta said. “We’re grateful for our partnership with Communities In Schools and the opportunity to give back to South Texas.”
The Governor’s Volunteer Awards recognize individuals, families, organizations and corporations whose service over the past year has strengthened communities and inspired others across Texas.