Wal-Mart awards $450,000 to the Northwest Arkansas Council

The Northwest Arkansas Council received a $450,000 grant from Wal-Mart to foster economic development, diversity and inclusion in the local community. The gift was presented in conjunction with the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship — LPGA event held this week in Rogers.

“At Wal-Mart, we are dedicated to fostering growth and prosperity in our hometown of Northwest Arkansas,” said Kathleen McLaughlin, senior vice president, corporate affairs, and president, Walmart Foundation. “That’s why we provide support to organizations like the Northwest Arkansas Council, so we can help further economic development here at home.” 

The grant will impact more than 500,000 local residents throughout the region. The work being accomplished focuses on improving education, job opportunities, quality of life and infrastructure.

The Northwest Arkansas Council is a private, nonprofit organization committed to sustaining and improving the region as a great place to live and conduct business. Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton was instrumental in establishing the Council in 1990, and the organization played an active role in many of the region’s most notable successes over the past 20 years.

Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club employees remain actively involved in many of the projects being pursued by the NWA Council by volunteering hundreds of hours to participate in regionally-focused meetings and initiatives.

Wal-Mart’s financial support is benefiting the region as the NWA Council continues to work on the Greater Northwest Arkansas Development Strategy, a five-year regional improvement plan.

“We’re excited to see Wal-Mart and the Walmart Foundation continue to positively impact the lives of all people who live in Northwest Arkansas,” said Mike Malone, president and CEO of the Northwest Arkansas Council. “Their contribution helps us in our work to improve schools, create job opportunities and improve quality of life here. Wal-Mart is a fantastic partner in all of the goals we pursue.”