About Town

It’s the Season to Give, Share, Live United

Heart of Arkansas United Way Board of Directors Member Kelly McConnell shares season’s greetings with a holiday wish that supports so many Central Arkansas nonprofit organizations…

2020 began for me with an exciting new role: as a member of the Heart of Arkansas United Way Board of Directors. I’d supported United Way and many of its partners for several years, and felt honored to have the opportunity to offer my voice and leadership to United Way’s future.

Of course, that has looked far different than I anticipated.

Not long after COVID-19 arrived in Arkansas, the Heart of Arkansas United Way opened a fund to support those on the front lines of addressing this crisis. Alongside other board members and volunteers, I reviewed requests from organizations all across our community, and I’m proud to say we invested more than $85,000 in 16 organizations in our community. COVID-19 has threatened the immediate needs of many of our neighbors more than ever, and United Way responded with support for food, rent and mortgage assistance, PPE and cleaning supplies, and building capacity for telehealth and remote tutoring programs. In this season of gratitude and giving, that’s something to celebrate.

This holiday season will be one we never forget. As you make your list (and check it twice) of those you want to celebrate with a gift this year, I invite you to join me in giving to United Way in honor of those friends, family members, coworkers or clients. As a realtor for Jon Underhill Real Estate, I know my clients are looking not only for a home, but a community that is thriving. By giving a gift in their honor to United Way, I’m a part of building that strong community. The United Way team makes it easy for those on your list to receive a holiday card with your personalized message, and you can complete your gift from the comfort and safety of your own home.

To learn more, I hope you’ll visit heartaruw.org/HolidayGiving. Wishing you and yours a safe a joyous holiday, from all of us at United Way.

Inviting Arkansas

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