FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hope, AR. -
The United Way of Hempstead County is proud to announce the return of its signature fundraising events, The United Way Golf & Gala, set for Thursday, October 22 and Friday, October 23 at the Hope Country Club.
Now in its fourth year as a combined event, this two-day celebration continues to grow in both impact and community support. The United Way Gala, launched in 2022, will take place Thursday evening with this year’s theme, Moonlight & Magnolias, offering guests an elegant evening rooted in Southern charm and timeless style.
Guests will enjoy a red carpet welcome, a seated dinner, an evening of music, dancing, and entertainment, along with a raffle and auction, all coming together to create a memorable night in support of a meaningful cause.
The celebration continues Friday with the Glenn Woodruff Memorial Golf Tournament, honoring the legacy of a respected community leader. This friendly tournament provides participants the opportunity to enjoy a day on the course while supporting a cause that directly impacts Hempstead County.
“United Way’s mission is to improve lives by uniting the caring power of our community. In the past five years, the Annual Golf & Gala has transformed into a cornerstone of that mission, fueling growth, deepening partnerships, and empowering our agencies to serve more people than ever before. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier Hempstead County,"Gina Perkins, Executive Director of United Way shared.
Shelly Short, Golf & Gala Chair added, “Last year was my first year serving as Gala Chair, and what stood out most wasn’t just the event itself, but the incredible support from our community. I am so proud of our community partners and the Golf & Gala Committee, whose dedication and generosity make this impact possible. It was a beautiful night, but more importantly, it was a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together. I’m truly grateful to be part of United Way and the opportunity to help give back in such a meaningful way."
Each year, the Gala highlights not only the agencies supported by United Way but also the volunteers and community leaders who make its mission possible. Honorees from the 2025 Gala included:
• Person of the Year: Steve and Ceila Montgomery
• Volunteer of the Year: Dr. Dale Goins
• Agency of the Year: The CALL of Hempstead and Nevada County
United Way of Hempstead County supports several essential community agencies, including Christian Charitable Medical Clinic, Hope’s 1st Choice Pregnancy Resource Center, Hope in Action 1 & 2, Hempstead County 4-H, Junior Auxiliary of Hope, Senior Adult Center, Domestic Violence Prevention, Harvest Regional Food Bank, Hospice of Hope and Texarkana, The Byrd House, and The CALL.
Sponsorship opportunities will be available soon. For information about supporting the event or getting involved, check out our website https://www.hempsteadunitedway.org/ or please contact:
Gina Perkins, Executive Director
Nicki Purifoy, Golf Chair
Summer Chambers, Gala Co-Chair
Shelly Short, Gala Chair
