Walmart earlier today announced a $450,000 grant provided to the Northwest Arkansas Council for projects that foster economic development, diversity and inclusion in the local community. The grant is part of a commitment by Walmart to fund growth and development in Northwest Arkansas, as it is doing with the world-class LPGA event being held this week in Rogers at Pinnacle Country Club.
A donation ceremony was held earlier today during the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G.
“At Walmart, we are dedicated to fostering growth and prosperity in our hometown of Northwest Arkansas,” said Kathleen McLaughlin, senior vice president of corporate affairs for Walmart and president of the Walmart Foundation. “That’s why we provide support to organizations like the Northwest Arkansas Council, so we can help further economic development here at home.”
The grant will impact more than 500,000 local residents throughout the region. The work being accomplished focuses on improving education, job opportunities, quality of life and infrastructure.
The Northwest Arkansas Council is a private, nonprofit organization committed to sustaining and improving the region as a great place to live and conduct business. Walmart founder Sam Walton was instrumental in establishing the Council in 1990, and the organization played an active role in many of the region’s most notable successes over the past 20 years.
Walmart and Sam’s Club associates remain actively involved in many of the projects being pursued by the Council by volunteering hundreds of hours to participate in Northwest Arkansas-focused meetings and initiatives.
Walmart’s financial support is benefiting the region as the Council continues to work on the Greater Northwest Arkansas Development Strategy, a five-year regional improvement plan.
“We’re excited to see Walmart and the Walmart Foundation continue to positively impact the lives of all people who live in Northwest Arkansas,” said Mike Malone, president and CEO of the Northwest Arkansas Council. “Their contribution helps us in our work to improve schools, create job opportunities and improve quality of life here. Walmart is a fantastic partner in all of the goals we pursue.”
The Council’s overall program includes more than 50 strategic actions, and those funded by Walmart focus on economic development, and diversity and inclusion.
