Even in a relatively prosperous area of the state like Northwest Arkansas, many thousands of children live in poverty. As AACF outlined in conjunction with our most recent child poverty report, Northwest Arkansas was not immune to the state's growth in poverty over the last few decades. Since 1990, during a time of economic growth for the region, the number of children living in poverty has grown faster than the population. In the 3rd Congressional District, which includes some of the state's most prosperous cities, child poverty grew from 20 to 25 percent in one year, from 2008 to 2009. It is now at 28 percent, which is higher than the state average.

It's more important than ever to provide a voice for children in this region. AACF's Northwest Arkansas Office opened in September 2008 after years of planning and effort by AACF staff and board members. The office serves the community through researching the needs of children in the area and spreading that knowledge to help better the lives of children and families.

      
                                                                                                                                            Northwest Arkansas Director
                                                                                                                                            Laura Kellams

Laura Kellams, AACF's Northwest Arkansas Director, spent the first year on the job conducting a "listening tour" to learn about the specific challenges that low-income children in the area face. Read about the highlights of the findings in her "Profile of Northwest Arkansas Children." 

RECENT EVENTS

NWA Soup Sunday 2013 - Thanks to everyone for coming out!

Our office is located in the Center for Nonprofits/JTL Shop in Springdale:
614 E. Emma Avenue, Suite 107
Springdale, AR 72764
(479) 927-9800