Hope, Ark. – The United Way of Hempstead County is proud to announce the return of its combined signature fundraising events—the United Way Golf & Gala—set for Thursday, October 16 and Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Hope Country Club.
Now in its third year as a combined event, this two-day celebration continues to grow in impact and excitement. The United Way Gala, launched in 2022, will be held Thursday evening with this year’s theme, Caribbean Nights, offering guests an elegant evening of tropical charm and high-energy fun. Guests will enjoy a red-carpet welcome, a seated dinner, live music by DJ Stanley, interactive Treasure Trivia games, a raffle, silent auction, and many fantastic prize opportunities throughout the evening.
The celebration continues Friday with the Glen Woodruff Memorial Golf Tournament, now in its second year under this special name, honoring the lasting contributions of a beloved community leader. This friendly tournament offers players a chance to compete while supporting a great cause with even more fun and games.
“United Way’s mission is to improve lives by uniting the caring power of our community," said Gina Perkins, Executive Director of United Way Hempstead County. "We strive for a world where everyone has access to education, financial stability, and good health. The Annual Golf & Gala helps us reach those goals by raising funds, building partnerships, and recognizing those who make a difference.”
Each year, the Gala highlights not only the agencies supported by United Way but also the volunteers and community champions who make its mission possible. Honorees from the 2024 Gala included:
• Woman of the Year: Grace Kirkpatrick
• Man of the Year (in memory of Glen Woodruff)
• Paul Henley Volunteer of the Year: Dr. Brent Bennett
• Agency of the Year: Hempstead County 4-H
United Way of Hempstead County supports several essential community agencies, including:
Christian Charitable Medical Clinic, First 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 Texarkana and Hope, The Byrd House, and The CALL.
“Our generous supporters continue to amaze us year after year,” said Shelly Short, Gala Chair. “Thanks to their contributions, we are able to fund essential services and programs for our neighbors throughout Hempstead County.”
Sponsorship opportunities for the 2025 Golf & Gala will be available soon. For information about supporting the event or getting involved, please contact:
Gina Perkins, Executive Director
Email: gina.perkins@swaec.org
Summer Powell, Gala Co-chair
Nicki Purifoy, Golf Chair
Email nickipurifoy@gmail.com
Shelly Short, Gala chair
Email: shelly@swark.today