Rockwall Launches Heart of the Community Award; Faith, Nonprofit Leaders Gather

Rockwall Mayor Tim McCallum presented Rockwall’s inaugural "Heart of the Community" Award to Ridge Petersen during the "New Heart" Gathering on Feb. 15, a city event that drew community members, civic and nonprofit leaders, and faith organizations. The evening was described in program materials as "an inspiring evening devoted to faith, compassion, and community collaboration."

The "New Heart" Gathering brought together nonprofit organizations and faith groups from across Rockwall County for a program that included the award presentation and remarks from local leaders. Attendees at the Feb. 15 event included community members and leaders from Rockwall, Rowlett, Royse City and nearby Heath, signaling local interest in civic-faith partnerships after recent community initiatives.

Mayor Tim McCallum presented the award to Ridge Petersen, with the citation recognizing him "for demonstrating remarkable […]" in the printed program and event announcements. The presentation marked the city's first-ever "Heart of the Community" Award and set a public precedent for civic recognition tied explicitly to faith and nonprofit collaboration in Rockwall.

Organizers released limited details at the gathering. The event announcement and program did not list Ridge Petersen’s organizational affiliation or role, did not name the specific venue in Rockwall where the Feb. 15 gathering took place, and did not include attendance figures for community members, nonprofit organizations, or faith groups in initial materials. Information on the selection process for the inaugural award, potential sponsors, and whether the award will be given annually was also not provided at the event.

The new award joins a calendar of community-focused events across Rockwall County that have featured local nonprofits and civic groups in recent weeks. Residents and local nonprofit leaders who participated in the Feb. 15 gathering can expect follow-up details about Petersen’s contributions and the award’s future role in Rockwall civic life as city officials and organizers release fuller statements and documentation.