2025 Power of the Purse

United Way of Fort Smith Area Hosts 20th Annual Power of the Purse Featuring Guest Speaker Amy Hannon Fort Smith, AR – [September 11, 2025] – The United Way of Fort Smith Area is excited to announce its 20th Annual Power of the Purse event, taking place on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the ACHE Research Institute, 1000 Fianna Way in Fort Smith. Power of the Purse is a signature fundraising luncheon that brings women together to celebrate community, connection, and philanthropy. Proceeds from this event will be used to purchase books for local children across the United Way of Fort Smith Area’s six-county service area, helping foster a love of reading and providing educational opportunities that last a lifetime. This year’s featured speaker is Amy Nelson Hannon, best-selling author of Gather & Give and Love Welcome Serve. Known as the heart and soul of Euna Mae’s, Amy is a hospitality enthusiast, cookbook author, and inspirational speaker with a broad platform that spans from television hosting to culinary travel. Her newest cookbook, Satisfied: Savories & Sweets that Feed Belly and Soul (November 2024), is already beloved by many. Amy has spoken nationally for organizations including Chick-fil-A, Circle of Life Hospice, and chambers of commerce, while also encouraging and inspiring women in churches across the country. Attendees will also enjoy a delicious lunch and a silent auction featuring themed handbags, making this milestone year even more memorable. “We are thrilled to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Power of the Purse with such an inspiring guest speaker,” said United Way President & CEO, Shea Foldvary. “The impact of this event extends far beyond one day. The books purchased through Power of the Purse will help ignite a love of reading in children across our community.” Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now. For more information or to reserve your seat, contact the United Way of Fort Smith Area office at 479-782-1311.