02 Dec 2024 Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches Dinner honors Sissy Jones, raises $190,000

The Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches raised more than $190,000 at its 29th Annual Arkansas Children’s Award Dinner on Oct. 24 in Little Rock, enabling the organization to continue its mission to provide safe, healthy, and loving homes for Arkansas children.

This year’s Arkansas Children’s Award was presented to Sissy Jones, founder of Sissy’s Log Cabin and long-time advocate for Arkansas youth. She embodies the heart and mission of the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches, with a history of caring for at-risk children, a dedication to giving back to communities across the state, and a strong commitment to family values.

“Sissy Jones’ kindness and generosity have touched so many lives here at the Ranch and across Arkansas,” said Nancy Fulton, chief executive officer of Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches. “This event is a reminder of how much people like Sissy mean to our work and how, when we come together as a community, we can create a better future for Arkansas children who need our care.”

The event, held Oct. 23 in the Grand Ballroom at the Little Rock Marriott Hotel, had more than 300 people in attendance. The evening included a reception, dinner, a silent and live auction, and an award presentation. The Master of Ceremonies was former Gov. Mike Beebe, maintaining a tradition he has upheld since the event’s inaugural year. David Bazzel of 103.7 The Buzz hosted the live auction and a giving opportunity to raise additional funds for the organization.

The Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches’ mission is to address, remedy and prevent child abuse and neglect by creating safe, healthy and loving homes for Arkansas children. The organization is a statewide, private 501(c)(3) nonprofit that was founded in 1976 by the Sheriffs of Arkansas to provide a safe, loving shelter for two boys living in a neglectful home. Since then, the Ranch has served more than 2,300 Arkansas boys and girls in need and is still growing to serve more youth. To keep up with news from the Ranch, visit them on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram by using the handle @Youth Ranches.

To make a tax-deductible donation to the mission of the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches, visit YouthRanches.com.