This month, we are proud to feature the United Way Fort Smith Area, a cornerstone of service and support for Sebastian, Scott, Crawford, Franklin, and Logan Counties in Arkansas. With a mission to enhance health, education, financial stability, and crisis support, United Way has touched more than 200,000 lives annually for an incredible 96 years.
A Legacy of Service
Founded in 1928, United Way Fort Smith Area has grown to serve six counties, including two in Eastern Oklahoma. With 31 partner organizations, they take a holistic approach to meeting community needs, from supporting youth programs like Boys & Girls Clubs to aiding senior services like Meals on Wheels. Their commitment to all age groups reflects a deep-rooted dedication to fostering healthier, stronger communities.
Partnering for Literacy: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
In 2007, United Way Fort Smith Area became the local program partner for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, starting with Sebastian County. Today, the program has expanded to all five Arkansas counties, providing free, high-quality books to children under five. The impact on early childhood literacy is undeniable, with studies showing increased cognitive development and better school readiness for children enrolled.
Through presentations and outreach, United Way Fort Smith Area continues to raise awareness and funds for this transformative program, alleviating financial burdens for families while fostering a love of reading in children.
Powerful Community Impact
United Way Fort Smith Area is not only about measurable outcomes but also about the countless moments of joy the Imagination Library brings to families. Parents frequently share how the program has inspired their children to love books and develop critical early literacy skills. These stories, though immeasurable, are powerful reminders of the program’s importance.
The benefits of this program extend beyond education. By providing free books, the program supports families financially, ensuring every child has access to literacy resources regardless of their circumstances.
Motivated by Impact
The United Way Fort Smith Area team is driven by their passion for service and their ability to see lives transformed by their work. Whether it’s delivering books to young readers or connecting families to vital resources during tough times, their dedication remains unwavering.
Get Involved
Interested in supporting or learning more about United Way Fort Smith Area? Visit their website at unitedwayfortsmith.org, call them at (479) 782-1311, or follow them on Facebook at United Way Fort Smith. Together, we can continue making a difference—one family, one book, one story at a time.