General Community
Austin Elevates: A Two-Day Art & Music Experience
About the Project
Austin Elevates was a high-energy, star-studded art and music experience created by Thomas J. Henry to unite the city and give back in a big way. With explosive performances and powerful purpose, the event raised over $327,000 for three life-changing Austin nonprofits.
9,000
Austinites Enjoyed Free Access to Art & Music
$327,720
Raised to Support Local Nonprofits
47
Future Healthcare Leaders Awarded College Scholarships
Who We Helped
Austin Elevates proudly supported three remarkable nonprofit organizations making a lasting difference in Central Texas:
- SAFE Alliance – Offering safety, healing, and support to survivors of abuse and violence.
- Superhero Kids – Enhancing the lives of children battling cancer and blood disorders, and supporting their families at the Children’s Blood and Cancer Center of Central Texas
- St. David’s Foundation Community Fund – Advancing community health and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals through scholarships and outreach.
Together, these organizations represent the heart of Austin — serving the vulnerable, uplifting families, and building a healthier future.
Our Goal
The mission of Austin Elevates was twofold:
- To celebrate the unique culture of Austin through art and music.
- To generate critical funding and awareness for local nonprofits working to uplift the community.
Philanthropist and attorney Thomas J. Henry envisioned the event as a way to bring the community together and use his platform to give back in a meaningful, measurable way.
Event Highlights
- The Event: A two-day art and music experience for Austin, Texas
- Day 1: Public art showcase featuring a downtown mural by world-renowned street artist Alec Monopoly
- Day 2: Benefit concert at the Austin360 Amphitheatre, featuring performances by:
- Kygo Daddy Yankee DaBaby 88Glam
- Celebrity Guests Included: Jennie Garth, Ashlee Simpson Ross, Evan Ross, Pierre Gasly, Alexa Dellanos, Simon Pagenaud, Hélio Castroneves, and many more.
- Attendance: Over 9,000 Austin residents attended free of charge
- Funds Raised:
- $160,000 raised through donations $327,720 total after a personal match from Thomas J. Henry
“It was my mission to not only bring a unique event tailored to this amazing city but to raise awareness and funds for the local nonprofits making a difference in the lives of so many every day.”
Making a Difference
The impact of Austin Elevates went beyond the stage:
- 47 new college students received scholarships through the St. David’s Neal Kocurek Scholarship Program, helping to build the next generation of healthcare leaders.
- Thousands of Austinites experienced free access to live music and public art, reinforcing the city’s cultural identity while spotlighting vital causes.
- The event demonstrated how strategic philanthropy, creative vision, and celebrity influence can come together to make a real difference in people's lives.
The Power Behind the Purpose
The Thomas J. Henry Center for Philanthropy continues to create unforgettable experiences that uplift communities, empower youth, and strengthen essential institutions.
