Girls Inc. of Fort Smith hopes to brew up support for the nonprofit organization with the “Fest of Ale” set for Saturday at the Starlight Event Center by MovieLounge.
The annual beer-tasting benefit will feature some 1,000 craft and big-name brews, hors d’oeuvres from area restaurants and a VIP area with wine tasting and bites from AJ’s Oyster House.
The group received permission to show via live stream the University of Arkansas Razorbacks during the event, so fans can still catch the team’s football game.
Girls Inc. of Fort Smith serves approximately 1,400 girls annually, according to Amanda Daniels, executive director. Girls are kindergarten through 18 years old, with the majority served being elementary-school age.
Proceeds from the event will support the group’s programs, including an after-school program, summer camp and outreach initiatives, Daniels said. The after-school program provides homework help, art and cooking classes and other activities throughout the year. The group’s summer day camp in June and July gives girls the opportunity to swim, play tennis and golf and gain leadership skills.
The group for girls’ development tailors programs to “focus on girls’ needs and provide exposure to a wide variety of experiences.”
Daniels said the “pro-girl, girls-only” environment “allows girls to be themselves and not worry about boys.”
— CARIN SCHOPPMEYER
Fest of Ale
What: Hors d’oeuvres, some 1,000 beers and ales, live-streaming of Razorback game
When: 5-9 p.m. Saturday
Where: Starlight Event Center by MovieLounge in Fort Smith
Tickets: General admission, $45; VIP, $75
Information: (479) 782-0375.