University of Arkansas to Sponsor United Way Community Agency Fair

The University of Arkansas is joining forces with Wal-Mart/SAM'S CLUB, Tyson Foods, J.B. Hunt and the Jones Center for Families as sponsors of the first ever United Way Community Agency Fair.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - The University of Arkansas is joining forces with Wal-Mart/SAM'S CLUB, Tyson Foods, J.B. Hunt and the Jones Center for Families as sponsors of the first ever United Way Community Agency Fair.

The event is a joint venture between the United Way of Benton and Washington counties and is planned in conjunction with the Jones Center's Free Summer Concert Series, "Jammin' at the Jones Center." The fair begins at 5 p.m. Saturday, June 18, at the Jones Center in Springdale, and the band Trout Fishing in America will perform from 7-9 p.m.

Local agencies will be on hand to display examples of how they have benefited from the support of the United Way of Northwest Arkansas. A booth competition will also take place, and refreshments will be available for patrons.

"The United Way of Benton and Washington counties offer a number of programs and services that benefit so many residents of this area," said Earlene Baker, UA assistant vice chancellor for finance and administration and United Way board member. "This community fair showcases these wonderful programs and offers residents an opportunity to learn more about resources available through local United Way agencies."

In 2004, the university raised a record $136,339.79 as part of United Way's annual campaign and was named the "Community Hero" award winner for the year.

United Way is the national organization dedicated to leading the United Way movement in making a measurable impact in every community in America. The United Way movement includes approximately 1,400 community-based United Way organizations. Each is independent, separately incorporated and governed by local volunteers.

United Way raises money for more than 90 organizations in Washington and Benton counties.

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Earlene Baker, assistant vice chancellor, Finance and Administration, (479) 575-5828, earleneb@uark.edu

Charles Crowson, manager of media relations, University Relations, (479) 575-3583, ccrowso@uark.edu