Northwest Arkansas is blessed with a large number of nonprofit agencies that, together, work to meet just about every need. These organizations are supported by the generosity of the community.
In the coming weeks -- in keeping with a holiday tradition -- the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette will share "wish lists" of local charitable agencies.
Northwest Arkansas is a great community in many ways. One of them is that because of the number of well-run, well-targeted nonprofits, the regions' residents do a phenomenal job of "taking care of our own."
Art Ventures
What: Art Ventures promotes the visual arts in Northwest Arkansas by actively collaborating with the community, supporting artists working to the highest standards, encouraging education and public engagement in the arts and providing accessibility to under-represented communities.
Where: 101 W. Mountain St., Fayetteville
Website: artventuresnwa.org
Contact: (479) 871-2722
Wish list: Standing easels, round-trip bus rides for 14 from JTL building in Springdale to 101 W. Mountain St. in Fayetteville, white track lighting, energy-saving LED bulbs and volunteers.
Ozark Literacy Council
What: The mission of the Ozark Literacy Council is to improve lives through expanding and promoting literacy in the community, and the vision is to ensure that all people in Washington County possess literacy and language skills that enhance their lives and empower them to become full, participating members of the community.
Where: 2596 N. Keystone Crossing, Fayetteville
Website: ozarkliteracy.org
Contact: (479) 521-8250, [email protected]
Wish list: Volunteers are needed as tutors and teachers for more than 370 students. Also needed are dry-erase markers, copy paper, coffee and tea.
Washington County Animal Shelter
What: The Lester C. Howick Animal Shelter of Washington County works to lower the number of animal nuisance problems in the county and to increase the number of animals returned to their homes or adopted into loving homes.
Upcoming donation drive: Anytime Fitness at Nelson's Crossing, 745 E. Joyce Blvd., Suite 215, in Fayetteville, will be collecting pet food and supplies through Dec. 22.
Where: 801 W. Clydesdale Drive, Fayetteville
Website: co.washington.ar.us/government/departments-a-e/animal-shelter
Contact: (479) 695-3450
Wish list: Purina Dog Chow Complete, Pedigree canned dog food, Friskies canned cat food, Purina Puppy Chow Complete, hand sanitizer, dog and cat treats and toys, pet beds, scratching posts, Dawn dishwashing soap, fabric softener sheets, liquid laundry soap, Simple Green, 1-inch masking tape, scouring pads and bleach.
Five & Dime Drama Collective
What: Five & Dime Drama Collective brings new dramatic works, never previously produced, to the stage, so the artists can receive feedback to develop their visions.
Where: Eureka Springs
Website: fiveanddimedramacollective.org
Contact: [email protected]
Wish list: Video projector to allow the collective to incorporate visual multi-media into stage performances. A portable sound system to allow incorporation of sound effects and pre-recorded tracks into stage performances.
Boys & Girls Club of Fayetteville
What: The mission of the Boys & Girls Club of Fayetteville is to provide a safe place during hours out of school where children have opportunities to reach their full potentials and are encouraged to pursue their dreams.
Where: 560 N. Rupple Road, Fayetteville
Website: fayettevillekids.org
Contact: (479) 442-9242, [email protected]
Wish list: Board games, fooseballs, ping pong paddles and balls, basketballs, footballs, kick balls, volleyballs, packs of cards, crayons, markers, coloring books, paint brushes, water-based paint, construction paper, sidewalk chalk, kites, frisbees, jump ropes, sketch pads, scissors, poster board, pens, video game console, games, locking storage cabinet, healthy snacks.
Boys & Girls Club of Benton County
What: Boys & Girls Club of Benton County enables all young people, especially those who need most, reach their full potentials as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
Upcoming fundraisers: Youth of the Year Celebration, March 8; Sip, Savor and Support, August; Fall Golf Classic, Oct. 5
Where: 28001 N. Walker St. in Bentonville
Website: bgcbentoncounty.org
Contact: (479) 273-7187
Wish list: Monetary donations at bgcbentoncounty.org/donate.
NAN Our Town on 12/14/2017