NONPROFIT
Text courtesy of Hope Cancer Resources | Photo by Keith Branch
Runway for Hope: Where Style Inspires Hope
An evening of elegance, inspiration and generosity returns to Northwest Arkansas this fall as Runway for Hope, presented by the Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation, takes the stage once again. Now in its second year under its reimagined name, the signature gala carries forward more than two decades of tradition established by the Bill Fleeman Gentlemen of Distinction Gala.
Founded by the Fleeman family to honor Bill Fleeman’s extraordinary legacy of philanthropy and service, the event has grown into one of Northwest Arkansas’ premier charity galas. While its name has evolved, its purpose remains unchanged: bringing together business and community leaders to celebrate generosity, honor those who have shaped our region and raise critical funds for Hope Cancer Resources. The Fleeman family’s continued involvement ensures Bill’s spirit of service remains at the heart of the evening.
On Sept. 11, guests will gather at Heartland Whole Health Institute in Bentonville for an elegant evening featuring a cocktail reception, gourmet dinner, runway fashion show, silent auction and inspiring stories of hope. Together, these moments celebrate the compassion and generosity that define Northwest Arkansas while providing vital support for local individuals and families facing cancer.
Back Row: Dallas Counts, Scott Salmon, Dusty Pruitt, Donny Hubbard, Patrick Curry, Dr. Blake Lockwood, Mitch Mawby
Front Row: Lance Manning, Bill Bowen, Mike Shaw
One of the evening’s signature moments is the runway itself, where some of Northwest Arkansas’ most recognizable business and community leaders step outside of their everyday roles to model the latest fashions from Hubbard Clothing Co., the event’s fashion sponsor. This year, the excitement is even greater as Donny Hubbard, owner of Hubbard Clothing Co., joins the runway as one of the featured models, bringing his passion for style and community to the event in a new way.
But these community leaders aren’t simply modeling the latest fashions. They are modeling generosity.
Each participant has committed to raising a minimum of $10,000 in support of Hope Cancer Resources, with fundraising already well underway. Throughout the summer, the models have been rallying coworkers, family members and friends to invest in local cancer patients through their individual fundraising pages.
The impact has already been proven remarkable. During last year’s inaugural Runway for Hope, the model class raised more than $120,000, demonstrating the incredible power of community-driven philanthropy. This year’s fundraising continues through the evening of the gala, where the individual raising the highest total will be recognized as the 2026 Model of Hope, celebrating both their dedication and the generosity of those who supported their campaign.
Supporters can follow the competition and donate directly to their favorite model by visiting www.RunwayforHopeNWA.com.
While the runway celebrates today’s community leaders, another cherished tradition of the evening honors the enduring legacies of those whose leadership and service have left a lasting mark on Northwest Arkansas.
The Bill Fleeman Gentleman of Distinction Award was established in memory of Bill Fleeman, whose passion for philanthropy, servant leadership and unwavering commitment to Hope Cancer Resources helped establish one of the organization’s most treasured traditions. Presented annually, the award recognizes an individual whose leadership, generosity and commitment have made a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by cancer while strengthening our community and inspiring a spirit of service.
This year, Hope Cancer Resources is proud to honor the late Willard Walker as the 2026 Bill Fleeman Gentleman of Distinction.
Walker’s vision helped shape Northwest Arkansas into the thriving community it is today. Through his leadership, business success and extraordinary philanthropy, he championed education, healthcare and nonprofit organizations that continue to improve lives throughout the region. His commitment to serving others was never about recognition — it was about creating opportunities, strengthening communities and leaving a legacy that continues to inspire generations. Hope Cancer Resources is honored to recognize Walker’s extraordinary life and enduring impact.
Every dollar raised helps ensure Hope Cancer Resources can continue providing comprehensive cancer support services at no cost to local individuals and families. Whether it’s transportation to treatment, financial assistance, counseling, wellness programs, support groups or prevention education, each gift helps provide hope when it’s needed most.
Runway for Hope is more than a gala — it is a celebration of generosity, compassion and community. It is a night where fashion tells a story, philanthropy takes center stage and every step down the runway helps change the life of someone facing cancer.
Hope Cancer Resources extends a special thank you to JS Bull, who graciously hosted this year’s Model Mixer and welcomed the 2026 model class for a memorable evening together. His generous hospitality provided the perfect setting for the models to get to know one another, share in the excitement surrounding Runway for Hope and begin their journey toward the runway together.