POPPY'S GALA FOR LIFE - Denim & Diamonds October 3, 2026
Jacqueline Smooke- Chair
Jacqueline Smooke is a native Houstonian who has a passion for helping others and contributing to the Houston community.
After her career as the Catering Director at Vargo’s Restaurant, she began to focus on charitable endeavors. In 2017, she chaired the Elijah Rising Gala, their first large fundraiser, for over 600 guests. The event raised money for a permanent lodge to house displaced women in need.
During Hurricane Harvey, Jacqueline was instrumental in getting the Cajun Navy to help rescue stranded citizens by using their fleet of boats that they brought to Houston from Louisiana. Jacqueline was able to cut through red table and forwarded victims' locations directly to the rescue boats.
During Covid 19, Jacqueline and her daughter provided over 400 meals to local health care workers and first responders who worked tirelessly during the pandemic.
In 2017, Jacqueline was the gala chair for Elijah Rising, a nonprofit organization working to end sex trafficking. In 2020, she chaired the gala for Girls On The Run, a nonprofit organization designed to enhance participants' social, emotional and physical skills to successfully navigate life experiences. She was a co-chair for a gala at Memorial Drive Elementary School. She also put on a fashion show for the Rose Foundation, Freedom Place and Britt More Rescue.
Jacqueline has been active in the Houston Symphony, Know Autism, Best Buddies, Great Age Movement, Mission of Yahweh, Lily’s Toy Box, American Heart Association and the Girl Scouts.
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Together for Suicide Prevention and Awareness
Last December, UC Berkeley students gathered at the Clark Kerr track for Poppy’s Run for Life, a 5K dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Led by PMHS Vice President Anna Jacobowitz, the run united participants in resilience and solidarity. Proceeds supported the UCSF Alliance Health Project, Hope Services of the East Bay, and Poppy’s Run for Life Houston. More than a race, it became a moment of connection and reflection, reminding students that no one is alone in their struggles.