After more than two decades of service to the community, the beloved annual fundraiser Festival of Chairs is evolving into the Festival of Hope, reflecting a renewed mission of empowerment, healing, and justice for children in need. Hosted by the Children’s Advocacy Alliance (CAA), this fundraiser supports critical programs that protect children and provide them with the care they deserve.
For over 23 years, the Festival of Chairs has brought together individuals and businesses from Conway and the surrounding areas to support the region’s most vulnerable children. The Festival of Chairs earned its name from its iconic live auction of hand-painted chairs, but as the event and its mission have grown, so has the need for a name that better reflects the heart of the cause.
“We’re proud of our history as the Festival of Chairs,” said Will Smothers, Board President. “But as we look to the future, we want a name that truly speaks to our mission—hope. The Festival of Hope will continue the work we’ve always done while embracing a more meaningful focus on the future of the children we serve.”
About the Children’s Advocacy Alliance
The Festival of Hope is hosted by the Children’s Advocacy Alliance (CAA), an independent nonprofit serving Faulkner, Van Buren, Searcy, Perry, and Conway counties. Founded in 2000 as CASA of the 20th Judicial District, CAA oversees both the Central Arkansas Children’s Advocacy Center and Central Arkansas CASA. These programs provide essential support to children who have experienced trauma, offering services ranging from investigative and treatment interventions to court-appointed advocacy ensuring their long-term safety and well-being.
The Central Arkansas Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) works alongside law enforcement and child protective services to coordinate investigations, providing forensic interviews, medical evaluations, and mental health services in a safe and supportive environment. Advocacy is at the core of the CAC’s work, ensuring that each child’s voice is heard throughout the process.
The Central Arkansas CASA program recruits and trains local advocates to stand in the gap for children, providing consistency as they navigate the foster care system. These advocates ensure that children have a consistent adult presence in their lives—critical in a system where they are often moved between foster homes and facilities. CASA advocates follow children from placement to placement, ensuring their medical, educational, and therapeutic needs are not interrupted.
A Legacy of Community Support
The Festival of Hope remains deeply connected to its roots here in Central Arkansas. Through the years, local businesses, schools, and residents have come together to make a lasting impact on the lives of children in need. This year’s event will feature a silent and live auction, live music, guest speakers, and great food, all aimed at raising funds for these life-changing programs.
As part of the rebranding, we’re introducing a new visual identity and messaging to better communicate our purpose, but we remain dedicated to the same cause that has driven us for over two decades—empowering children to reach their full potential.
Save the Date
The Festival of Hope will take place on November 8th, 2024 at St. Joseph School Spiritan Center. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit the programs run by the Children’s Advocacy Alliance, providing children and families with the resources, care, and support they need to heal and thrive.
For more information about the Festival of Hope, ticketing, and how you can support the cause, visit https://hopeandjustice.networkforgood.com/events/75602-festival-of-hope-2024
