United Way of North Central Arkansas, under the leadership of President John
Kunkel, proudly celebrates its continued commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals and
families across the region. Serving the counties of Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard, Sharp,
and Stone, United Way of North Central Arkansas is dedicated to creating opportunities for
education, financial stability, and health for all community members.
United Way of North Central Arkansas has recently transitioned from a paid Executive Director
position to a working and engaged Board of Directors as part of its evolving vision. This shift enables
the organization to invest even more directly in its communities, maximizing donor contributions’
impact and enhancing support for vital programs throughout we serve.
On Thursday, November 7, United Way of North Central Arkansas held its inaugural Night.of.Impact
at Lyon College in Batesville. This inspiring event brought together community leaders, partners,
and supporters to celebrate the organization’s impact and recognize those who have significantly
contributed to United Way’s mission. Substantial donations from Bruce and Pat Rutherford and
Arkansas State Representative for District 40, Shad Pearce, kicked off the 2025 campaign, setting a
strong foundation for the year’s fundraising goals.
In 2024, United Way of North Central Arkansas awarded grants to several local agencies, each
receiving $5,000 to advance essential programs that provide critical support to the most vulnerable
members of our community. These agencies include Family Violence Prevention, Help and Hope,
Independence County Senior Center, Mission of Hope, and the Ozark Foothills Literacy Project.
United Way’s contributions empower these organizations to expand their impact, delivering
essential services to those in need.
In addition to the agency grants, United Way of North Central Arkansas is proud to recognize our
valued partners and individual supporters through our Business Donor Pillar and Individual Donor
Pillar Awards. The following businesses have shown exemplary commitment to our mission:
• First Community Bank
• LaCroix Precision Optics
• Future Fuel
• Intimidator Toro Group
These businesses play an instrumental role in furthering our mission by ensuring our programs
reach those who most need them. Additionally, we are deeply grateful to the individual donors
whose generosity enables our continued impact:
• Platinum Donors: Dale & Gayle Cole, Boris & Pam Dover, Ray & Diane LaCroix
• Gold Donor: Kirk & Michelle Warden
• Silver Donors: Justin & Raya Tracy, Jeff Reves, Bill and Karen Campbell, Maggie Williams
This year, the Dolly.Parton.Imagination.Library.Award was presented to White River Health in
recognition of its outstanding commitment to promoting early childhood literacy. White River
Health goes above and beyond by signing up and sponsoring every child born at the hospital to
receive a book each month through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program. Each child gets a
book monthly from birth until age five, fostering a love for reading and providing access to quality
literature from an early age.
Reflecting on the organization’s mission, President John Kunkel stated, “Our mission is more than
just words—it is the lifeline that many in our community rely on during times of hardship. We are
here to stand beside those who need us most, and we believe that together we can transform lives
and build a stronger, more resilient community.”
United Way’s vision focuses on the transformative pillars of Education, Financial Stability, and
Health. Through educational support programs, individuals gain the skills needed to thrive; through
financial stability initiatives, families find pathways to independence; and through health services,
the organization ensures that all residents have access to the care necessary for a fulfilling life.
“We are deeply grateful to our donors and community partners who stand with us in this mission,”
Kunkel continued. “Their generosity and unwavering support make our work possible and allow us
to reach countless families who may find themselves needing a helping hand at a moment’s
notice.”
United Way of North Central Arkansas is also launching its 2025 Workplace Campaign, inviting
local businesses and individuals to join in making a difference. This campaign provides a
straightforward and impactful way for employees to contribute to their community, with donations
directly supporting essential local programs.
If you are interested in learning more about United Way of North Central Arkansas, hosting a
workplace campaign, or making a donation, please contact John Kunkel at 479-621-3500. Together,
we can continue building a stronger North Central Arkansas for all.
Contact: John Kunkel, President
Phone: 479-621-3500
[email protected]
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