THE SOCIAL FRONT
Party with a Purpose
Breakthrough T1D hosted its Party with a Purpose on April 25 at Heroncrest in Elm Springs. More than 425 community leaders, prominent citizens and philanthropists came together for an unforgettable evening to champion a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. Ashlee Pratt of Dexcom was the gala chair, Dr. Rachel Kilpatrick was the honoree of the evening, and Amanda Jenkins, senior vice president of Walmart health and wellness, served as the honorary corporate chair. Emceed by Jon Williams and Allison Wise, the event kicked off with a lively cocktail hour, followed by a delicious dinner and an exciting live auction. During the program, guests heard from featured speaker Katie Beth Hand, an Arkansas woman participating in a University of Chicago clinical trial supported by Breakthrough T1D. The highlight of the evening was the “Fund A Cure” moment, where the Tharnish family shared their journey with T1D and guests could then raise their paddle to directly support life-changing research and resources for people with T1D. More than $530,000 was raised in the fight to find a cure for T1D. www.breakthrought1d.org/arkansas
Heroes Gala
On April 25, Sheep Dog Impact Assistance hosted its annual Heroes Gala at the Rogers Convention Center. The event kicked off with a moment of silence, posting of the colors by the Roger Police Department and the national anthem sung by Tisa Colson. Approximately 600 guests enjoyed dinner, live and silent auctions, and dancing. Guests also heard from keynote speaker Rob O’Neill of Navy SEAL Team SIX, U.S. Air Force Veteran Denise Sharpe, and actor and activist Dean Cain. John Laney, executive vice president of the foods division at Walmart, was the honorary chair for the event and joined in a fireside chat with Tracy Dufault, SDIA board member and fellow Walmart executive. Sheep Dog of the Year awards were presented to Ron Redding of Arkansas (Military), James Hurn of North Carolina (Law Enforcement), Jerry Puga of California (Fire and Rescue) and Melissa White of Arkansas (EMS). The event raised more than $250,000 for the organization, which supports military, veterans, first responders, and their Families to #GetOfftheCouch and live the lives they deserve through post-traumatic growth. Visit the website for more information on how to become a Sheep Dog member or supporter. www.sheepdogia.org
Celebration of Excellence
On April 29, the Fayetteville Public Education Foundation celebrated its 26th annual Celebration of Excellence at Ozark Music Hall in Fayetteville, highlighting its commitment to the enrichment of Fayetteville Public Schools. The foundation awarded $208,879 across all grants and scholarships in 2026, generating a total of 27,184 student experiences throughout the community. In partnership with the Fred J. Brunner Foundation, the FPEF distributed $29,189 in Maureen Shireman Literacy Grants, supporting 3,716 student experiences centered on reading and literacy development. In addition, the foundation recently appointed Tony Moten Jr as the new executive director. www.fayedfoundation.org
Plant-a-Seed Soirée
On May 1, the NorthWest Arkansas Community College Foundation hosted its annual Plant-a-Seed Soirée at Heroncrest in Elm Springs, presented by Cheez-It. Approximately 240 guests enjoyed live entertainment by NWACC alumni DJ Leon Jamison, a fabulous dinner prepared by Brightwater chefs and the Culinary Capstone class of 2026, and a live and silent auction. Emceed by Ashlyn Brothers of KNWA, guests also heard from current NWACC student Ronald P. Fuentes Constanza and alumna Matthew Fann. The floral-themed event hit a record-setting milestone, raising more than $142,000 to support NWACC Foundation scholarships. nwaccfoundation.org
Mini Derby
On May 2, Equestrian Bridges in Rogers came alive with joy, laughter and the unmistakable sound of tiny hooves during the 14th Annual Mini Derby. More than 450 guests gathered to celebrate a day filled with purpose, play and powerful community connection. Guests sipped on signature mint juleps provided by presenting sponsor Sazerac and savored gourmet offerings from Cowboy Catering Company. With the excitement of miniature horse races, an open bar, best-dressed contests, raffle drawings, silent and live auctions, and a larger-than-life Kentucky Derby watch party, the atmosphere was nothing short of magical. The event raised an incredible $133,482 in support of Equestrian Bridges and its equine-assisted services and wellness programs. These funds will directly support expanding opportunities for children, veterans, first responders, individuals with disabilities, and families across Northwest Arkansas to experience healing, growth and connection through horses. This beloved event was not just about racing or hats — it was about harnessing the power of horses and community to change lives. www.equestrianbridges.org
Kentucky Derby Party
On May 2, EverHope hosted its fourth annual Kentucky Derby Party, presented by The Hershey Company, at Heroncrest in Elm Springs. Approximately 425 guests were welcomed by Heather Seymore, vice president of salty snacks at Walmart, who served as honorary chair for the event. The night included Kentucky Derby-inspired drinks, a silent auction, horse racing games and delicious food provided by Loma, Waldo’s Chicken and Beer, and Brothers Meethouse. More than $331,000 was raised at the event to support the trauma-centered programs for children and families at EverHope www.everhope.org
Gala for Education and Access
TheatreSquared hosted its 20th Anniversary Gala for Education and Access on May 7 at the Fayetteville Public Library. Nearly 400 people were in attendance for the golden spotlight-inspired event. Guests enjoyed a three-course dinner prepared by chef Michael Robertshaw of Pizzeria Ruby and a performance by Jonathan Arana, accompanied by a jazz quartet led by Jason Burrow. TheatreSquared honored George and Rosemary Faucette with the Arts Advocate Award for their dedication to the arts and education, and Jordan Haynes of Fayetteville High School received the Arts Educator Award. The presiding co-chairs for the evening were Maya Bowie and Monique Carswell and presenting sponsors were Bob and Becky Alexander. In total, the event raised more than $320,000. This support will allow T2 to reach 25,000 students, teachers and underserved community members across Arkansas and beyond through free educational programs and ticket access initiatives. www.theatre2.org
