04 Aug 2025 Mayflower youth program celebrates 40 years with open house

MAYFLOWER — The Youth Advocate and Resource Network (YARN) continues its 40th anniversary celebration with a special Garden Program Open House and Dedication Reception. This milestone event will showcase the expanded YARN Garden and honor community partners who have made it possible. YARN invites families and community members to join the celebration, explore the garden, and learn more about YARN’s mission and youth programs. Attendees will also have the opportunity to register children for upcoming programming. To RSVP,  email [email protected].

The YARN Garden is designed to inspire and engage children with hands-on learning experiences that promote healthy eating habits and the benefits of growing fruits and vegetables. The garden has recently undergone significant improvements, including the addition of a greenhouse, a fenced perimeter to ensure child safety and a new outdoor cooking area.

The event is possible because of support of community partners including Buff Blass, Simmons First Foundation, Simmons Bank, The Adcock Family Foundation, Faulkner County Conservation District, Centennial Bank, First Security Bank, Arkansas Cancer Coalition, Arkansas Arts Council, Arkansas Community Foundation, Mayflower High School FFA and Coordinator Morgan Seymore, ARVEST Bank, the YARN Board of Directors, local churches and dedicated community members.

Founded in 1985, the Youth Advocate and Resource Network (YARN) is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to motivating and supporting youth in rural Arkansas. Through a wide range of educational and enrichment programs—including tutoring, cultural awareness initiatives, and the annual Art and Garden Camp—YARN equips young people with the tools they need to make informed, healthy life choices. To date, YARN has positively impacted more than 4,060 youth and families, thanks to the support of its volunteers, business partners, and community organizations.

Ongoing Programs and Initiatives include Art & Garden to Table Camp, Early Childhood Literacy Programs, Free Tutoring Services, Youth Conferences and Seminars, Travel N’ Learn Educational Tours and Arkansas Author’s Children’s Book Festival.

To sponsor, volunteer, donate, or learn more about YARN’s mission and impact, visit yarnkids.com, email [email protected], or call 501.336.4726. All donations are tax-deductible.