Little Rock Dinner Raises Funds for Youth Ranches
The annual Arkansas Children's Award Dinner generated $237,365 to support homes for children in need.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Philanthropy

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The 31st-annual Arkansas Children's Award Dinner successfully raised $237,365 at the Little Rock Marriott. Over 450 guests gathered to support the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches in its mission to provide safe homes for children.
Why it matters
The funds raised support the ongoing operations of the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches as the organization prepares to mark its 50th anniversary in 2026. These contributions help ensure the group can continue its long-standing mission of providing residential care to children.
The event drew more than 450 supporters to raise a total of $237,365. This fundraiser marked the 31st year of the annual dinner as the organization heads toward its 50th anniversary.
The players
Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches
This organization provides safe homes for children in need and is approaching its 50th year of service.
Laura Landreaux
She serves as the CEO of Entergy Arkansas and received the 2026 Arkansas Children's Award for her contributions.
The details
Attendees gathered at the Grand Ballroom at the Little Rock Marriott to honor Entergy Arkansas CEO Laura Landreaux with the 2026 Arkansas Children's Award. The gala serves as a central effort to sustain the residential services provided by the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches.
Timeline
The Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches was founded in 1976.
The 31st-annual Arkansas Children's Award Dinner occurred in October 2026.
The organization celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026.
Market Landscape
The 31st-annual Arkansas Children's Award Dinner reflects a long-standing pattern of corporate-backed philanthropy in the Little Rock region. This consistent funding cycle supports the stability of local youth services against broader fluctuations in charitable giving.
The funds raised directly support the daily living needs and residential stability of children served by the organization. Local residents and supporters can track the ongoing impact of these contributions through the organization's anniversary outreach programs.
The takeaway
Large-scale community fundraisers remain essential for sustaining long-term social services like the Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches. Participating in or donating to these established annual events helps bridge the gap between organizational operational costs and state-provided resources.
Further reading
Learn more about local community efforts in the Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AMP.
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