Havenwood Hosts 20th Annual Angel Gala

Havenwood hosted it's 20th annual Angel Gala on Saturday (Feb. 22) at the Doubletree Suites in Bentonville. 235 guests attended the event, which featured cocktails, silent and live auctions, raffles, a formal dinner, and dancing. All funds raised at the event will benefit Havenwood, with a specific focus in expanding the organization’s case management program.

“Havenwood helps single parents who are in crisis and who are homeless transition out of their situation and work to empower them to transform their future,” said Rachel Cox, Havenwood’s Director of Development and Marketing.

Guest speaker DeLinda Mace shared her perspective of growing up as a child who could have used something like Havenwood.

“When you know better, you do better,” said Mace. “No matter what your childhood is like, it’s just a baseline and it won’t define you long term. Once you get help, like with what Havenwood does, you can move forward,” she added.

“This program is wonderful to get resources to people who otherwise might not get them. I think it’s wonderful for everyone to see that their money and efforts toward Havenwood do go into success stories,” said Crystal Harry, a former Havenwood resident. “Havenwood got me those resources. I hadn’t even thought about going to college and Havenwood opened those doors for me,” she added.

“I’m learning that community involvement is a huge key. I hope that guests see the amazing things that are going on at Havenwood” said Kailey Wever, AmeriCorps volunteer coordinator for the Children’s Program.

“This program really explains so much about and exemplifies what we as a community in Northwest Arkansas can really do to help out and to better our community,” said Channing Barker, a KNWA News reporter, and emcee of the event.