The glitz and glamour of the Caribbean theme set a festive tone. The evening's special touches, including a red-carpet welcome and chauffeured rides from the parking lot to the front door by volunteers Steve Lance and Tom Tom Hughes, made guests feel special from the moment they arrived. Fun was also on the agenda with a trivia game that had a cash prize and raffle drawings for a number of cool gifts, including a 50” flat-screen TV. The guests were treated to an evening of elegance and celebration and were more than pleased to celebrate those honored for their selfless contributions.
The CALL in Hempstead & Nevada Counties was named Agency of the Year for its unwavering commitment to children in foster care. This faith-based organization works to recruit, train, and support foster families, ensuring that every child has a safe and loving home. "There are 3,500 kids in foster care in Arkansas at any given time, and only about 1, 300 open homes... these are Hempstead County babies, Hempstead County kids and Hempstead County teens - these are OUR kids," said Holli Boyett, Affiliate Director for The CALL. "THAT'S why The CALL works to recruit, train and support local foster families." The organization's efforts provide crucial support to families who open their hearts and homes, offering everything from training to "blessing baskets" filled with essentials.
Dr. Dale Goins was honored as the Paul Henley Volunteer of the Year for his nearly three decades of service to the Charitable Christian Medical Clinic. Dr. Goins was instrumental in the clinic's founding after a medical mission trip to Honduras inspired him and a small group to address healthcare needs within their own community. The clinic provides free medical care to those in need, a testament to Dr. Goins' compassionate spirit. Upon accepting his award, Dr. Goins humbly shared credit with his fellow volunteers. "You know, it’s not just me that’s doing that work," he said. "We have a lot of volunteers who do that work at the clinic. And everybody does it, not for the accolades that we would get here, but for the joy that we have when we're serving other people. You find joy when you're out there serving other people." Dr. Goins' diligence to the cause was evident even on this night of celebration. He couldn't even stay for pictures because it was clinic night; so he left early to head back downtown and provide care for those who need it.
Steve and Celia Montgomery were celebrated as the Persons of the Year for their decades of profound generosity and community building in Hope. Arriving in 1991 as the new owners of the Hope and Nashville McDonald's, the Montgomerys quickly became integral members of the community. Their support has extended to numerous organizations, including the Hope Lions Club and the Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce. Their deep faith has been a driving force behind their service at Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Church, and even in retirement, their commitment to Hope remains steadfast. While accepting the award, the Montgomerys expressed their heartfelt gratitude, with Steve noting their appreciation for the community and Celia adding how honored they were to receive the recognition for simply doing what they love: being a part of Hope.
The United Way Gala, now in its third year as a combined event with the Glen Woodruff Memorial Golf Tournament, continues to grow in both excitement and impact. The two-day celebration raises vital funds for 13 nonprofit agencies supported by the United Way of Hempstead County.
“The United Way Gala was truly an incredible night of generosity and community spirit,” said Shelly Short, United Way Gala Chair. “We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, donors, and volunteers whose support makes our work possible. Because of them, we will be able to give back to the 13 nonprofit agencies we support, organizations that touch lives and strengthen our community every single day."
United Way Executive Director Gina Perkins echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the gala's role in raising awareness. "We really wanted to bring awareness to more local residents regarding United Way and the work we do in our area," Perkins said. "Plus, we want people to know where their contributions are going. Events like these shine a spotlight on these organizations and the volunteers who are the heart of United Way.”
The evening was a powerful reminder of the profound impact that dedicated individuals and organizations can have. Not only did guests receive a night of elegance and five-star treatment, they also received inspiration from those whose stories of service and compassion make a real difference in the lives of others each and every day.
