Jordyn Wieber, Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics and University of Arkansas gymnastics coach, was the featured speaker at the Partners+Prevention Luncheon Feb. 25 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Fayetteville. The event benefited the Children's Safety Center of Washington County.
Arkansas first lady Susan Hutchinson spoke of the need for safety centers and thanked those gathered, saying, "I'm always encouraged when I get out to this. You understand childhood should not be interrupted."
At a Glance
Partners+Prevention luncheon
Who: Children’s Safety Center of Washington County
What: Jordyn Weiber, Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics and University of Arkansas gymnastics coach, was the featured speaker.
When: Feb. 25
Where: Hilton Garden Inn in Fayetteville
Next: Pinwheels for Prevention, April 1 and 2
Information: (479) 872-6183 or childrenssafetycent…
Arts Rising: Once Upon a Gala
Who: Arts Center of the Ozarks
What: The group lauded three longtime supporters.
When: Feb. 29
Where: The arts center in Springdale
Information: (479) 751-5441 or acozarks.org
The Children's Safety Center coordinates investigation, prosecution and treatment services in child abuse cases with law enforcement, child protective services, victim service providers, prosecutors, medical personnel, mental health professionals and volunteers. In 2019, 804 children received services. The nonprofit organization has helped more than 9,000 people since opening in 1997.
The group presented awards to:
• Mercy Northwest Arkansas -- Partners+Prevention Award;
• Terra Stephenson, senior deputy prosecutor Washington County -- Ordinary Hero Award; and
• Nickalus White, detective special investigations unit Fayetteville Police Department.
The safety center will kick off Child Abuse Prevention Month with Pinwheels for Prevention on April 1 and 2.
Serving on the Children's Safety Center's Board of Directors are Chris Thornton, Jordan Greer, Dan Prier, Brittney Duke, Susan Antony, Dale Brown, Rick Hall, Vanessa Harper, Matt Bumgarner, Ananda Rosa, Patrick Tenney, Richard Watkins and Sarah White.
Arts Rising: Once Upon a Gala on Feb. 29 boosted the Arts Center of the Ozarks as the nonprofit organization lauded three supporters for their continued dedication and commitment.
"Volunteer of the Year Denise Richards has played in 25 consecutive summer musicals, is the accompanist for our ACO Chorale, treasurer for the Friends of the ACO and has volunteered her time and talent in so many ways. She blesses us with her talents daily.
"Star Award recipients Chris and Debby Weiser have been longtime supporters of the ACO, pouring time, talent and treasure into all we do. Debby has served as president of our Board of Directors twice and has been one of the first to always help get things done."
Debby's family surprised her that evening with the announcement that the center's dance studio will now bear her name.
For more event photos -- nwadg.com/photos/society.
Columnist Carin Schoppmeyer can be reached by email at cschoppmeyer@nwadg.com.
NAN Profiles on 03/08/2020