Munro honored for years of service
Past and present board members of the Hot Springs Area Community Foundation, representatives of the Giving Circle, and members of the community gathered Tuesday to honor local philanthropist Don Munro at a luncheon celebrating his retirement from the foundation’s board.
Munro’s philanthropic efforts span across a variety of local organizations, with a lengthy charitable history that stretches across 40 years of service to the community, his supporters noted.
Munro was one of the founding members of the HSACF, and has served on its board of directors since it was founded in 1991. He was also the co-founder of both the Giving Circle and the Hot Springs Cultural Alliance.
“He is the most genuine caring person I’ve ever been around. His whole life (has been) giving to others,” said board Chairwoman Charleen Copeland.
Dozens of guests crowded around Munro as he made his entrance to the luncheon at Special Touch Catering, 600 Main St., attempting to steal a hug and drop a few congratulatory words.
Although Munro has officially retired, he said he plans to keep up business as usual and continue his charitable efforts throughout the community.
“(Retiring) feels terrible. I hate leaving a wonderful group like this,” Munro said.
“The community foundation plays a big part in my fondest memories from the past 40 years,” he said.
Outside of his philanthropic efforts, Munro founded one of America’s largest shoe manufacturing companies, Munro & Co. Inc. The several manufacturing plants across the state have employed thousands of Arkansans over the years.
Munro’s dedication to service has reached far and wide across the community. He served as a board member of the Arkansas Arts Center, Arkansas Nature Conservancy, National Park Community College Foundation and an array of other charitable organizations.
“I’m still here, 40 years later, and intend to continue working with organizations to (improve Hot Springs),” he said.