In Memory of Donald Guenther, Founder of River City Advocacy and Counseling Center
Thus, River City Advocacy, Inc. was born. In 2001, RCA was granted 501(c)(3) status, and Don officially became the Executive Director. His vision for the organization was clear: to provide support, education, and advocacy for individuals living with mental health challenges in the community. Don’s leadership, alongside his wife and their shared commitment to RCA’s mission, helped secure early funding and set RCA on the path toward growth. In 2003, RCA received its first grant of $1,500 from Texas Mental Health Consumers, which allowed the organization to purchase office supplies and establish a more professional presence. The success continued, with RCA receiving a $24,000 grant in 2004, which enabled the nonprofit to rent office space and pay for a small salary. With continued support from organizations like United Way and the McKenna Foundation, RCA blossomed under Don’s leadership. Though Don retired in 2005, he remained a steadfast advocate for RCA, transitioning to a role on the Board of Directors. He served as Board Emeritus until his passing, offering his guidance and support to the organization he helped build. His unwavering dedication to mental health advocacy, his kindness, and his ability to inspire others will never be forgotten. In honor of Don’s incredible legacy, we encourage those who wish to pay tribute to him to consider making a donation to River City Advocacy and Counseling Center or volunteering to help further the mission he worked so tirelessly to establish. Thank you, Don, for your vision, your leadership, and your dedication to our community. You will be missed, but never forgotten. The growing demand for mental health support in the area became undeniable, and in 2000, Donald secured a grant from Texas Mental Health Consumers to establish a nonprofit.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Guenther, the beloved founder and former Executive Director of River City Advocacy and Counseling Center (RCA). Donald passed away in early 2024 after a long-term illness, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and a profound commitment to mental health advocacy. Donald’s journey with RCA began in the late 1990s, when his passion for supporting individuals affected by mental illness and removing the stigma around mental health
led him to create something truly transformative. As a volunteer with
AmeriCorps from 1995 to 1998, Donald dedicated his time to various community projects, including a nonprofit community awareness fair and a mental health support group that, planted the seeds for the work that would follow. In 1999, Donald met the Executive Director of Texas Mental Health Consumers and collaborated with the director of local MHMR (Mental Health and Mental Retardation) to start a free support group in New Braunfels. This initiative quickly gained traction, with up to 30 individuals attending the support groups at local venues such as the library.
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