4th annual NWA Gives event expects nearly 300 nonprofits to participate

The 4th annual NWA Gives event will take place on Thursday, April 8 and will include fundraising efforts for nearly 300 regional nonprofits. A pre-event rally will take place on Tuesday, April 6 in the rose garden of the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville at 11:30 a.m.

The 12 hour giving event on Thursday seeks to raise the profile of regional nonprofits and connect them with potential donors.

During the pandemic last year, the NWA Gives event raised a total of $525,671, benefitting 202 nonprofits through the contributions of 2,457 donors. This year, 298 nonprofits are participating.

“Every year, the generosity of the Northwest Arkansas community exceeds our expectations,” said Chris Haas, chairman of the board at NWA Gives. “This year in particular, we are excited to see the community rally behind our local nonprofit organizations who have navigated significant hurdles to continue providing vital services throughout a challenging year.”

Prize money sponsor First Security Bank said it expects to give away $10,000 at this year’s event.

At the pre-event rally, Brock Short will provide live entertainment and a series of cash prizes will be given to select nonprofit organizations in attendance. State health guidance will be followed, including the requirement for attendees to wear face coverings and practice social distancing.

“We want to lift everyone’s spirits, put a smile on their faces, and remind them how amazing it is to live here,” Haas said. “When we invest in these nonprofits, we’re building our culture, empowering underserved people, and strengthening our cities. This is a time when we get to put love into every corner of Northwest Arkansas through donations to these incredible charities. So whatever you have a heart for, you can showcase it during an event like NWA Gives.”

Anyone interested in supporting registered charities on April 8 can go online at NWAGives.org to find a nonprofit or discover new organizations to donate to.

NWA Gives was launched in the spring of 2018. Current sponsors for the 2021 NWA Gives event include the Walton Family Foundation, First Security Bank, Pure Charity, Freedom5:one Ministries, Intercut Productions, 3W Magazine, 90.9 KLRC, Lamar and the Walton Arts Center.