Year in Review, Fiscal Year 2024-2025
For more than 80 years, Easterseals Arkansas has been rooted in compassion and driven by innovation. Our mission has always been to create opportunities for independence, inclusion, and empowerment, helping people live, learn, work, and thrive in their communities.
As we look back on this past year, we celebrate not only how far we’ve come but also the bright horizon ahead. It was a year of remarkable growth and meaningful milestones, a time of building, both literally and figuratively, for the future of Easterseals Arkansas. Construction on our new Academy school took center stage, a project made possible through the incredible generosity of our donors and supporters who believed in the vision of our capital campaign.
Beyond bricks and mortar, our programs flourished. Phase 2 Young Adult Program continued to expand, and our innovative Roommate Housing initiative gained exciting momentum, offering new pathways to independence.
Our signature events — Art & Soul, Fashion Event, and Arkansan of the Year — once again brought our mission to life. They served as joyful celebrations of the people we serve, powerful showcases of their talents, and opportunities to welcome new friends and champions into the Easterseals family.
As we move forward, we do so with enthusiasm and gratitude, continuing construction on our Roommate Housing model home, fostering the first year of operation of our new Academy, and expanding programs statewide. Together, we are building a future where every person, regardless of ability, can experience the fullness of life.
Campus Enhancement & Expansion
The new Academy and Roommate Housing four-bedroom model home represent a transformative step forward for Easterseals and the community we serve. This innovative project demonstrates how we can expand opportunities for independence, education, and inclusion, all within one dynamic, connected space. By investing in this effort, supporters are investing in the transformation of lives, empowering individuals with disabilities to reach their fullest potential. It’s an incredible opportunity. Just imagine the hundreds of people whose lives will be touched and strengthened right here within this one-square-mile area.
Academy Ribbon Cutting
The ribbon cutting for the new Academy was a momentous occasion, marking a bold new chapter for Easterseals Arkansas. With Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and other community leaders in attendance, the event celebrated the opening of a state-of-the-art educational space designed to empower students with disabilities to reach new heights in learning, independence, and personal growth. The Academy stands as a symbol of innovation and inclusion. It’s an inspiring testament to what’s possible when our community comes together to invest in brighter futures.
Roommate Housing
Roommate Housing empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live more independently through shared homes and tailored supports. Designed for individuals on the Community and Employment Supports Waiver, the program currently serves over 20 adults in shared living spaces.
Each home features smart technology, such as locks, thermostats, medication dispensers, and personalized apps, customized to each resident’s needs. Remote monitoring tools like video doorbells, motion, and stove sensors enhance safety, allowing one support professional to oversee up to ten homes and provide real-time assistance through a communication portal.
Our Roommate Housing team has traveled across the country, sharing this innovative living model and is working hard to expand throughout the state.
Fundraising Highlights
Art & Soul
Fashion Event
Arkansan of the Year
Honoring Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who was instrumental in securing state funding for our new Academy.
