Highlights from Our Inaugural Volunteer Appreciation Event
At HAAM, we talk a lot about the musicians we serve — and rightly so. But behind every healthcare appointment, every fundraising event, and every dollar raised, there's a network of passionate volunteers who make it all possible. This year, at our inaugural HAAMbassador Appreciation Event, we had the joy of finally celebrating them the way they deserve.
Thank you to our hosts at C3 Presents and to our event sponsors Aguasol Tequila, Brown Distributing, Dulce Vida, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Aguasol, Music Water, Juiceland, Studio 601, Still Austin Whiskey Co., Shaken ATX, and Hattie B’s.
The Impact of Volunteer Service
In 2025 alone, 192 volunteers worked 674 total shifts across 63 community fundraising events, three signature events, four Pearl Society events, and more. Together, they gave 1,879 hours of service — roughly 78 full days — valued at over $63,000 based on Texas's volunteer rate of $33.59 per hour.
That generosity translated directly into impact for Austin's musicians. HAAMbassadors helped raise over $11,500 through community fundraising events — the equivalent of $80,500 in healthcare services. They also collected over $12,600 through the HAAM Day Music Festival cash boxes, unlocking another $88,200 in care for the people who give our city its sound.
Volunteers Have Been Here From the Beginning
HAAM has relied on volunteers since its founding in 2005, before there was even a single paid staff member. That spirit of community-powered dedication has never left us. Today, HAAMbassadors are crucial to the success of HAAM's special events and ongoing operations — they raise money, they save money, and they show up with heart every single time.
Honoring Those Who Go Above and Beyond
This year, we were proud to present two special awards. The Hayes Chapin Outstanding Volunteer Award — named for an early HAAM supporter who attended every HAAM Day without fail and left a legacy gift to the organization — went to Hilary McVay, who has been volunteering since 2012 and has supported 137 events totaling 448.5 hours of service. You'll often find Hilary at the merch table, dressing the crowd in HAAM style and encouraging everyone around her to get involved.
The Robin Shivers Volunteer of the Year Award, given to a volunteer who goes above and beyond, was awarded to Kurt Richter, who has supported 101 events for 334.75 hours since 2017. Kurt is legendary for his dedication — reportedly with a special app that alerts him the moment a volunteer shift opens up.
Thank You, HAAMbassadors!
To every volunteer who has given their time, energy, and enthusiasm to HAAM's mission: we hope you can feel how far-reaching your impact truly is. Austin's musicians are healthier, and our community is stronger, because of you.
If you're inspired to join the HAAMbassador family, we'd love to have you. Visit myhaam.org/volunteer to learn more about how you can get involved!
