Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Charities list wishes
Northwest Arkansas is blessed with a large number of nonprofit agencies that, together, meet just about every need. These organizations are supported by the generosity of the community.
In the coming weeks — in keeping with a holiday tradition — the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette will share “wish lists” of local charitable agencies.
Northwest Arkansas is a great community in many ways. One of them is that because of the number of well-run, well-targeted nonprofits, the regions’ residents do a phenomenal job of “taking care of our own.”
FORT SMITH MUSEUM OF HISTORY
What: The mission of the museum is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of Fort Smith and the surrounding region.
Upcoming fundraiser: Pardi Gras, Feb. 10
Where: 320 Rogers Ave., Fort
Website: fortsmithmuseum.org
Contact: (479) 783-7841, info@fortsmithmuseum.com
Wish list: Updated computers, portable dishwasher, large outdoor flower pots, updated security camera equipment, archival storage boxes and a color printer.
BRIDGES FAMILY CENTER
What: Safely uniting children and parents during difficult and challenging family life transitions.
Where: 5374 N. Crossover Road, Fayetteville
Website: bridgesfamilycenter.org
Contact: (479) 231-6778, info@bridgesnwa.org
Wish list: Scholarships, full-size refrigerator, oven, kitchen items, iPad pointof-sale system with cash box, playground donations, snacks, mini water bottles, juice boxes, copy paper, office supplies, cleaning supplies, seasonal crafts and decor.
FREE GEEK ARKANSAS
What: Free Geek manages e-waste by keeping it out of landfills, with a focus on reuse. Computers are given to those who would not otherwise have access to technology, including other nonprofits. Donations are taken from unwanted electronics that are sold in the thrift shop on site or used as parts to fix other things, create art objects, jewelry, etc. Classes are offered on building, troubleshooting and programming
computers and more.
Where: 521 W. Ash St., Fayetteville
Website: freegeekark ansas.org
Contact: (479) 966-9512, info@freegeekarkansas.org
Wish list: Markers, highlighters, pens, copy paper, card stock, denatured alcohol, sponge-tip swabs, precision tools, self-adjusting wire cutters and strippers, soldering
supplies, flex-shaft rotary tool, multimeters, mechanical keyboard, label printer and labels, pressure washer, ice maker, scissor-lift table, 48-inch ventilation fan, electric winch, a box truck
with lift and an 8-by-12-foot or larger enclosed trailer.
YVONNE RICHARDSON COMMUNITY CENTER
What: The center strives to shape today’s youth for tomorrow’s challenges via educational, recreational and social opportunities.
Where: 240 E. Rock, Fayetteville
Website: friendsofyrcc.org, fayettevillear.gov/yrcc
Contact: (479) 444-3461, yrcc@fayetteville-ar.gov
Wish list: Markers, dry-erase markers, glue sticks, snacks, puzles, coloring books, children’s winter clothing, blankets, hats, scarves, socks, canned goods, hygiene products, laundry supplies, household supplies, paper plates, disposable utensils, disposable cups, napkins, water, board games, crayons, art supplies, greeting cards, thank you cards, etc.
7 HILLS HOMELESS CENTER
What: Working to end homelessness and poverty with education, opportunities and hope.
Upcoming fundraisers: Subway Food Drive, Dec. 1-16; Season of Giving benefit concert, Dec. 16
Where: 1031 N. College
Ave., Fayetteville
Website: 7hillscenter.org Contact: (479) 966-4378, info@7hillscenter.org
Wish list: Walmart gift cards of $10 to $30, tents, canned protein, disposable razors, sleeping bags, long underwear, hats, scarves and gloves.
SAMARITAN COMMUNITY CENTER
What: The center is a grace-driven community service organization that serves the hurting and hungry of Northwest Arkansas through a compassionate community of staff and volunteers.
Upcoming fundraisers: Turkey Drive, Friday; Garden Social, June 9
Where: 1211 W. Hudson Road, Rogers
Website: samcc.org Contact: (479) 636-4198, sgreen@samcc.org
Wish list: Wheelbarrows, metal leaf rakes, hygiene items, toilet paper, zip-top bags, napkins, plastic foam plates and cups, vinegar, oil for salads, dry milk, No. 10 cans of corn, peas and mixed vegetables, and gas cards.