16 Feb 2026 YARN celebrates 41 years of service at March 14 luncheon

Mayflower — Youth Advocate Resource Network (YARN) will celebrate 41 years of dedicated service to children, youth and families with its 41st Anniversary Volunteer Appreciation & Scholarship Awards Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, at the Mayflower High School Cafeteria, 10 Leslie King N. in Mayflower (Faulkner County).

As part of this milestone celebration, YARN will host a silent auction fundraiser to support its wide range of educational programs and the organization’s Annual Travel ‘N Learn Educational Tour, which provides students with hands-on learning experiences, college exposure, cultural enrichment and historical education beyond the classroom.

YARN is a fully volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and 100% of all donations raised directly support educational initiatives serving children and youth ages Pre-K through 18, as well as families in rural communities.

YARN’s Educational Programs Include:

· Free After-School Tutoring Program

· Summer Art & Garden Camp

· Youth Conference and Seminar Programs

· Garden to Table Program

· Annual Travel ‘N Learn Educational Tour

· “Let’s Make Reading Fun” Literacy Program

· Annual Arkansas Authors’ Children’s Book Festival

· Community Safety & Awareness Briefings

· Other educational programs and tours

“When YARN was founded more than four decades ago, the goal was simple — to make sure children and families had access to educational opportunities that would help them succeed,” said Founder Berthenia L. Gill. “Seeing YARN continue to grow, serve, and impact lives after 41 years is a true blessing and testament to the power of community support.”

Founded in 1985, YARN is dedicated to empowering children, youth, and families through education, literacy, mentorship, and community-based programming throughout Arkansas. The organization’s mission is a positive legacy that continues through the leadership of Gill’s daughter, Maria Hoskins, who serves as the nonprofit’s volunteer executive director.

“Thanks to the support of our community partners and corporate sponsors, YARN is able to provide students with exposure to opportunities, professionals, and learning experiences that broaden awareness and open doors — encouraging them to think beyond the barriers they see,” Hoskins said.

Businesses and individuals who donate silent Auction items will be recognized at the event, featured on YARN’s social media platforms, and included on YARN’s official sponsor list. All donations are tax-deductible.

Those interested in contributing to the auction or learning more about YARN’s programs are encouraged to contact Maria Hoskins at 501.336.4726 or at [email protected].

Together, YARN and its supporters continue to create “learning opportunities without limits” for the next generation.