One doesn’t have to look long in Arkansas to see evidence of philanthropist Pat Walker’s generosity. The Willard and Pat Walker Charitable Foundation has donated millions of dollars to promote health and education in the state and region over the years.
The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation’s Legends Dinner Friday is in Walker’s honor. Vickie Burlsworth, executive director of the foundation, said Walker was selected because “she has been a constant supporter of the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, and she embodies what we look for in the legends that we honor. She and her late husband Willard have donated more than $150 million to organizations in Arkansas, and she continues to make a difference.”
Past recipients have been Frank Broyles, former U.S. Rep. John Paul Hammerschmidt and U.S. Sen. John Boozman.
Proceeds from the dinner will go toward the programs offered by the foundation created and named in memory of Brandon Burlsworth. A Razorback football walk-on, Brandon went on to become a standout player and was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts.
He was killed in an auto accident 10 days after the draft.
The Eyes of a Champion program, started in 2007, is a nod to the black glasses Brandon was known for wearing. The program is the only one in the state that works through school nurses and counselors to provide eye care for preschoolers through high school seniors whose families can not afford it. The group will reach its 4,000th pair of glasses given to children in need in Arkansas this year.
Other foundation offerings include the Brandon Burlsworth Memorial Scholarships for graduate students, Burls Kids and the Burlsworth Trophy, which is given annually to a college football standout who started his career as a walk-on.
AT A GLANCE Legends Dinner
What: Brandon Burlsworth Foundation fundraiser will honor philanthropist Pat Walker
When: 6 p.m. Friday
Where: Northwest Arkansas Convention Center in Springdale
Tickets: $200
Attire: Business
Information: 866-534-2875 or brandonburlsworth.org
Style, Pages 21 on 01/09/2014