Supporters of the Helen R. Walton Child Enrichment Center in Bentonville will pay tribute to the legacy of the center’s namesake with “Recess at the Hive” on Feb. 25 at 21c Museum Hotel in Bentonville. The fundraiser is planned to earn money for the construction of a facility for the Helen R. Walton Early Childhood Initiative Center
The evening will include signature cocktails, a multi-course dinner from Chef Matt McClure and a keynote speech from Menna Demessie of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. Organizers said Demessie will discuss the many ways Walton’s “commitment to early childhood education has made an impact and continues to enrich the lives of youth in our community and beyond.”
The “After Hours Dance Party” will feature dance music from DJ Brock.
Proceeds from the benefit will go to the nonprofit organization’s capital campaign to raise nearly $15 million to break ground and start construction on the new campus in Bentonville.
David Lightfoot, Recess co-chairman, said the organization is nearing the end of its capital campaign, with $1.45 million left to raise.
The new facility will help the center leadership work toward its goal of “providing outreach to help [child care] facilities achieve high quality accreditation.” Center staff currently trains representatives of more than 240 child development centers, six days a week in one training room. The new center will have dedicated training areas, as well as classrooms for children at the center.
Lightfoot said the new center is “a beautiful project because its effects will be local, regional, state and nationwide.”
The organization currently provides care and pre-kindergarten education for children from 6 weeks old through pre-kindergarten.
Recess at the Hive
and After Hours
Dance Party
What: Dinner, conversation, tribute to Helen R. Walton When: 5 p.m. Feb. 25 Where: 21c Museum Hotel in Bentonville Tickets: Recess, $150; After House, $25 Information: (479) 273-3552, recessathive.eventbrite.com
— CARIN SCHOPPMEYER [email protected]