04 Sep 2024 United Way of Central Arkansas hosts annual Community Awards Luncheon

United Way of Central Arkansas honored outstanding nonprofit organizations and businesses on July 23 at its annual Community Awards Luncheon which was held in the McCastlain Ballroom at the University of Central Arkansas.

“Our community is stronger because of these incredible organizations and individuals,” said Jessica Clawson, executive director. “We are honored to celebrate their contributions.”

More than 115 people attended, including local business leaders, nonprofit executives, community volunteers and government officials. UCA President Houston Davis was the keynote speaker, inspiring the audience with insights on community development and the importance of collaborative efforts in driving positive change. Clawson said the event underscored the vital role that nonprofits and businesses play in fostering a vibrant and resilient community.

-Leather Brothers received the Excellence in Giving, Small Business Category Award, and Conway Corp received the Excellence in Giving, Large Business Category Award. 

Conway Corp Telecommunication Systems Manager Tommy Nolen called the award an honor.

“It has been an honor to serve as the Conway Corp campaign coordinator for the past 12 years,” Nolen said. “The United Way has such a positive impact in our community, I couldn’t imagine what our community would look like without their presence.”

Conway Corp employees donated approximately ^$30,000 last year and corporate donations have contributed more than ^$738,000 in total to United Way since the program began. 

Impact Giving recipients honored at the luncheon include Bethlehem House, Boys & Girls Club of Faulkner County, Children’s Advocacy Alliance, CAPCA, Community Connections, Community Service Inc., Conway Cradle Care, Conway Ministry Center, Smile Savers-Conway Public Schools and Conway Regional Foundation, Deliver Hope, Faulkner County Council on Aging, Milestones, Morrilton Human Relations Council, Rise House and Van Buren County Aging Program.

United Way of Central Arkansas serves Faulkner, Conway, Perry and Van Buren countries. Its mission is “to impact our community members by fostering a greater quality of life through initiatives focused on education, health and financial stability.” For more information, visit uwcark.org.