Fort Smith, AR – The Junior League of Fort Smith (JLFS) is excited to announce the return of its spring fundraising event, Day at the Derby, on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Hardscrabble Country Club. This fun-filled event is a celebration of Southern elegance, festive fashion, and community impact—all while supporting JLFS’s mission to empower women and uplift the Fort Smith community.
Why We Host Day at the Derby: Supporting Our Mission
At JLFS, our mission is to empower women through leadership development and training. We are particularly dedicated to addressing the issue of childhood poverty in Arkansas, where 1 in 5 children lives in poverty. Our efforts focus on community education, advocacy, and partnerships to support children and families in need.
Day at the Derby is a vital part of our mission. This fundraiser allows us to:
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Provide Leadership Development: Create leadership and training opportunities for our members, ensuring they have the skills to lead and serve with impact.
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Support Children in Poverty: Promote education, advocacy, and partnerships aimed at addressing childhood poverty.
By attending, sponsoring, or donating to Day at the Derby, you help us build a brighter future for our entire community—one child and one leader at a time.
Event Highlights:
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🏇 Cornhole Competition and BINGO
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🥂 Signature Derby Cocktails & Lunch
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🧙🏻♀️ Best Dressed & Best Hat Contests
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🎟️ Silent Auction & Raffle Prizes
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🥂 Bourbon and Cigar Tasting
“Day at the Derby is a great way to enjoy an afternoon of fun, food, and games with friends while celebrating our community,” said Shannon Stoddard, Co-Chair of Day at the Derby. “Get ready for exciting competitions, delicious drinks, and plenty of chances to show off your best Derby style!”
Event Details:
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Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
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Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
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Location: Hardscrabble Country Club, Fort Smith, AR
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Tickets: Available now at www.jlfs.org/dayatthederby
Proceeds from Day at the Derby will directly support JLFS’s Dignity for Alland Done in a Day community impact projects, as well as leadership development programs for our members.
Join the Fun and Support Our Cause!
Don’t miss your chance to don your best Derby attire, sip a signature cocktail, and enjoy an afternoon of fun and philanthropy. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available! For more information, sponsorship inquiries, or to donate to our silent auction, please contact Shannon Stoddard.
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Follow Us on Social Media for Updates:
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Facebook & Instagram: @JLFS Day at the Derby
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About the Junior League of Fort Smith:
The Junior League of Fort Smith is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. Learn more atwww.jlfs.org.
Media Contact: Shannon Stoddard shannon.m.stoddard@gmail.com (or jlfsdayatthederby@gmail.com)
