Weaving NWA to offer difference-maker awards

Weaving NWA is seeking nominations for a new award that recognizes Northwest Arkansas residents or organizations that are “bringing together neighbors to make a difference in their communities,” according to a news release.

Weaving NWA is affiliated with Weave: The Social Fabric Project, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit of the Aspen Institute that’s supported by the Walton Family Foundation and Walmart Foundation.

“Weave aims to solve the problem of broken social trust that’s left Americans divided along many lines, isolated and unable to address our common needs,” the release shows.

The 2025 Weaver Awards will provide $5,000 and other resources to 20 people or organizations in Benton or Washington counties. The money and resources will support efforts to build trust, foster connections and lead relationship-based work that addresses shared challenges.

“Weaving NWA exists because we are living through a crisis of loneliness, disconnection and polarization,” said April Kennedy, Weaving NWA local liaison. “Many folks can’t even talk to their neighbors anymore. To rebuild social trust it takes care, time, and people who show up and connect with one another — as they say, trust moves at the speed of relationships. These awards honor the neighbors doing that work every day, often without recognition or resources. It’s a reminder that you don’t need credentials to build community — you just need to care and show up.”

The nomination deadline is July 13 and is open to Northwest Arkansas residents who are at least 18 years old. Nominees must lead a project that brings neighbors together and strengthens relationships, make the project open and inclusive to the community, and address a shared need among neighbors.

Link here for more information.