Hope, Ark. –   The United Way of Hempstead County will hold its 2nd annual fundraising gala on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at the Hope Country Club. This year is a combined event by bringing back the United Way Golf Tournament on Friday, October 12, 2023, also at the Hope Country Club.

“We really wanted to bring awareness to more local residents regarding United Way and the work we do in our area,” said Gina Perkins, United Way of Hempstead County Executive Director.

The first annual red carpet event was designed to spotlight the important community agencies supported by the local United Way, including: Christian Charitable Medical Clinic, First Choice Pregnancy Resource Center of Hope, Hope in Action 1 & 2, Hempstead County 4-H, Junior Auxiliary of Hope, Senior Adult Center, Domestic Violence Prevention, Hope for Paws, and Harvest Regional Food Bank.

Over 200 people were in attendance for the Gala which featured catering courtesy of Sheba’s Family Restaurant in Hope; wine courtesy of Bodiddle’s in Benton, AR; entertainment from the Shadow Singers which was a local take on the “Masked Singer;” silent auction items including Touchdown Club tickets from David Bazzel, a live event painting, and a priceless garnet jewelry set; an exclusive $2,500  raffle drawing from Hourglass Aesthetics and Wellness Center; an interactive photo booth from Smile on the Line; and the Red Carpet Raffle where guests bid through ticket purchases and won prizes ranging from Arkansas Travelers tickets to a custom hunting knife to diamond earrings and designer handbags to a 55” TV and so much more. Last year’s event raised almost $20,000 through generous sponsorships from over 45 businesses and individuals. A complete listing of sponsors can be found at https://www.uwhcgala.com/blog/sponsors-show-up-for-1st-annual-gala.

Award winners last year were Michael Winarta from New Millennium Building Systems in Hope who was named “Person of the Year,” Paul Henley was awarded the inaugural “Paul Henley Volunteer of the Year Award” for his 50+ years of service to our community, and the Christian Charitable Medical Clinic was named the “Agency of the Year.”

“Being able to shine a light on where our contributions go was an important part of this event,” said Perkins. “These organizations help so many people and it’s a special way to thank those volunteers who put in the work each day.”

“I love the purpose behind this event; it creates an avenue for local businesses and individuals to invest in our community,” said Amanda Lance, Gala Chair. “By adding the golf tournament back into the mix this year, we truly have something for everyone: golf, gala, awareness, awards, and, of course, fundraising.”

The Committee will be delivering sponsorship opportunities in the coming weeks. This year’s event will also feature a seated dinner and awards ceremony to fully highlight those being honored.

For any questions about the 2nd Annual United Way of Hempstead County Golf & Gala,  please contact Amanda Lance at [email protected] or 870-703-3074; and for information about the important work being done through United Way of Hempstead County, please contact Gina Perkins, Executive Director at [email protected].

United Way of Hempstead County social sites:

Website: https://www.uwhcgala.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/United-Way-of-Hempstead-County-113693003818361