Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Arkansas backers went big for the mentoring program, helping the group raise some $170,000 at The Big Event on Sept. 29 at the Barn at the Springs in Springdale.
Nearly 250 Northwest Arkansas children ages 6 through 18 -- "Littles" -- are currently matched with adult volunteers, "Bigs." After going through a background check and interview process, Bigs spend a few hours a month with their Littles, doing ordinary things like playing sports, reading, hiking or just having pizza.
At a Glance
The Big Event
Who: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Arkansas
What: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Arkansas backers went big for the mentoring program, helping the group raise some $170,000 at The Big Event.
When: Sept. 29
Where: Barn at the Springs in Springdale
Information: (479) 966-4366
Bill Fleeman Gentlemen of Distinction
Who: Hope Cancer Resources
What: The group welcomed some 512 supporters for the annual fashion show, dinner and auction.
When: Sept. 30
Where: John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers
Information: (479) 361-5847
Cameron Smith told those gathered about the benefits he received from having a Big Brother while being raised by a single mother. He said his Big and he "talked about everything -- girls, school, friends."
He encouraged support for the organization from guests, saying, "He built self-esteem, confidence in me. This program works."
Each site-based match (the Big goes to the Little's school or Boys & Girls Club) costs the group $500 and community-based matches (Big coordinates activities with Little's parent) are $1,000. There are 40 children on the waiting list to be matched, most of the boys, according to Sarah Van Vleck, development director, meaning there's a great need for Big Brothers.
Those going big for Big Brothers Big Sisters included Kerry Robinson, Kirsten Evans, Bob Baker, John Carney, Alicia Fultz, Kelley and Chad Atchley, Amy and Jeff Greer, Kathy and Joe Farnan, Jeff Smolinski, Dave Wurm, Dustin Van Straten, Leanna and Jacob Rogers, Jeff Hendrix, Sharon Belto, Kate Howard, Heather and Zach Swanson, Kate and Ross Cully and Marty Englander.
Silvia Azrai Kawas and Rob Burns served as co-hosts for the evening.
Hope Cancer Resources welcomed some 512 supporters for the annual Gentlemen of Distinction fashion show, dinner and auction Sept. 30 at the John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers. The more than $205,000 raised from the benefit will help the nonprofit organization help cancer patients and their families with financial support for prescriptions, gasoline cards, nutritional supplement and living expenses.
The group presented the 2016 Bill Fleeman Gentleman of Distinction Award to Pierce Osborne II, DDS. Dr. Osborne has practiced with Arkansas Periodontal and Implant Associates in Fayetteville and Rogers since 2001. He was recognized for the help he's provided the nonprofit organization when a patient needed treatment quickly.
This year's distinguished models taking the catwalk in support of Hope Cancer Resources were John Acoach, Hollis Rogers III, Dallas Areceneaux, Josh Roller, Clay Carlton, Andrew Shelor, Kyle Cupp, Scott Shepherd, Andrew Curtis, Kelly Sudduth, Breck Kelley, Martin Swope, Dean Payton, Gus Vitt, Kevin Pope and Jon Williams.
For more event photos -- nwadg.com/photos/society.
Columnist Carin Schoppmeyer can be reached by email at [email protected].
NAN Profiles on 10/09/2016