Fountain of Youth celebrates ‘Divas, Diamonds, and Decadence’

More than 100 ladies came together on Wednesday (April 22) for the Fountain of Youth Adult Day Center's "Divas, Diamonds, and Decadence" luncheon. Hosted at Fianna Hills Country Club in Fort Smith, the event showcased the latest fashions and accessories, topped off with some sweet treats for all to enjoy.

The event kicked off with a lunch that included multiple dessert options. Guests were also gifted with individual "goody" bags that included a variety of chocolate candies. During the meal, Master of Ceremonies Maverick from KTCS welcomed guests and introduced the models for the ladies fashion show.

A number of "summer-ready" looks were included in the show, which featured models from Fort Smith stores Gallivanting Ladies Apparel and Hazel's Haven. Models showcased the latest trends in both clothing and accessories, giving guests a glimpse into the "hot" items for the coming season.

During the program, Executive Director Kristi Graham also announced that the Fountain of Youth was the recipient of a grant from the Pilot Club of Fort Smith. The organization was awarded more than $4,600 which will be used for the new FOYADC kitchen.

Fountain of Youth recently achieved a long-time goal of securing a new, larger facility. The organization celebrated the opening of its new location, at 2801 McKinley Ave. in Fort Smith, on Feb. 1 of this year.

"For years our greatest need had been a larger, and more user-friendly, facility with fenced green space," said Graham. "This new location is more than 9,400 sq/ft and will serve our current population and allow for new growth."

Graham also noted that the organization will make some updates to the space to better suit FOYADC's needs.

"With any new location, there are renovation costs," said Graham. "Fountain of Youth received a $40,000 from the Ghan Family Foundation and hosted a "Raise the Roof" BBQ to help raise additional funds to complete renovations for the February 1 move-in date. Visibility with this new location has increased from approximately 100 cars per day to 18,000 per day (according to the AHTD traffic survey). The new location allows for green space for our clients to enjoy with outdoor activities including games, bird watching, and gardening.”

Following the lunch and fashion show, guests made their way over to the shopping area to browse the numerous vendor booths, which featured apparel, jewelry, home decor, and more. Many ladies also placed their final bids in the silent auction, which included gift certificates, art, accessories and other unique items.

Tickets for the lunch were $35. Organizers hoped to raise between $5,000 and $6,000 from the event. Proceeds support Fountain of Youth, which serves as a "safe haven and loving refuge" for caregiver families. The organization gives seniors and other dependent adults in its care a place to attend where they can enjoy stimulating activities and interaction.

The center also provides nutritious meals for its clients, and a family-friendly environment, while giving caregivers much needed breaks from caring for their loved ones. FOYADC is a United Way of Fort Smith Area Community Partner Agency.