Over the last 25 years, the Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter has provided aid to more than 9,000 kids in Northwest Arkansas.
Maury Peterson, NWA Children’s Shelter executive director, told KNWA that though the state sends 100 percent of children in need their way, it only subsidizes about a quarter of the budget.
This week, the notable nonprofit is gearing up for its signature annual fundraiser that covers operating costs for nearly 75 percent of its work in Benton and Washington counties.
The Starlight Gala presented by General Mills is this Saturday, March 3 at the John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers, Arkansas, and tickets are still available!
“The amount of community support and people who rally and say, ‘We are here for the kids,’ to make this event a success is tremendous,” Liz Anderson, director of development and marketing, said.
This year’s event will feature a packed program from cocktail hour sponsored by Intradeco to after party sponsored by PepsiCo for up to 1,200 guests, including a live performance by Sara Evans at 9 p.m.
More than 200 items and experiences donated by sponsors will be raffled as door prizes and available during silent and live auctions throughout the evening. A full plated dinner will be served to all guests.
The evening kicks off at 6 p.m., so press your cocktail attire and wear something that shines as bright as the smiles of the children that NWACS helps. Tickets are $250 each.
Anderson said the money raised from this event goes toward so much more than just keeping the lights on.
“When you think shelter you might think of the stereotype of a simple bed, but it is so much more than that. So many firsts are experienced in the shelter.”
More than 500 kids a year are provided with 30-45 days of care, from dental work to loving enrichment activities like birthday parties so that they can just be normal kids.
If you cannot attend the event, but would still like to support the mission of providing kids with safe haven, high quality care and hope for the future, visit nwacs.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
Questions about the Starlight Gala and sponsorship opportunities can be directed to Liz Anderson at 479-795-2417 or landerson@nwacs.org.