Giving Back In Fort Smith: Local Causes To Support This Season

Giving Tuesday is a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities, typically through charitable donations, volunteer work or acts of kindness. It takes place annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the U.S., right after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While it's celebrated widely, the real impact happens when we do good right at home by supporting local businesses, causes and organizations working to uplift our own communities.

We've rounded up a list of some great organizations, causes and initiatives in the Fort Smith area. Please keep in mind, this is by no means an exhaustive list — just a starting point for discovering amazing local opportunities to give back, not only on Giving Tuesday but year-round! Be sure to contact each organization directly to find out about their hours or the best ways you can contribute.

The Arc River Valley

The Arc River Valley provides support services and programming to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization also prioritizes advocacy for its program participants and broader community education around disabilities.
Learn more: arcrivervalley.org

Dylan’s Closet

Named in memory of 7-year-old Dylan James, a beloved member of the community, Dylan’s Closet provides quality secondhand clothing to those in need across the River Valley. The nonprofit accepts donations of gently used clothing and shoes, as well as volunteers to help carry and sort through donation boxes.
Learn more: dylanscloset7.wixsite.com/dylanscloset

Kitties and Kanines

Kitties and Kanines offers affordable veterinary care, including spay and neuter services, across the River Valley area. Those who wish to give back can donate cleaning and pet care supplies, volunteer their time or make a monetary contribution to the organization.
Learn more: kittiesandkanines.com

Ronald McDonald House - Fort Smith

The Ronald McDonald House of Fort Smith provides a home away from home for families of hospitalized children. The Fort Smith house, located on the Mercy Hospital campus, offers lodging, dinner and amenities at no cost to families.
Learn more: rmhcofarkoma.org/what-we-do/ronald-mcdonald-house-fortsmith

United Way of Fort Smith Area

The United Way of Fort Smith Area focuses on addressing the needs of those in Crawford, Franklin, LeFlore, Logan, Sebastian and Sequoyah Counties. The organization invests in and mobilizes the community to support local programs that provide necessary education, child care, food and shelter.
Learn more: unitedwayfortsmith.org

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