The annual Fort Smith Public Schools United Way Campaign is officially underway and once again, employees have the opportunity to support the local organization and its 34 community partner agencies. District employees can participate in payroll deduction, make a one-time donation or choose to be billed directly for their contribution. Employees also have the ability to designate their gift to a particular agency, impact area or specific county. 

FSPS had a record-breaking year in 2011, raising more than $79,000 for United Way. This was a 5% increase from the previous year’s total. Fourteen schools and centers also had 100% employee participation, while the District posted an 83% participation rate. 

Schools are strongly encouraged to involve their students and to host school fundraising activities. Dollars raised from such events will be counted toward goal totals. However, only employee contributions will be used to determine the winner of the Helping Hand Award. In 2011, Cavanaugh was honored with the award for the ninth time.

United Way of Fort Smith Area focuses on programs that tackle issues related to education, income and health. United Way and many of its agencies partner with the District to provide services and supplies to children and their families. Every summer, United Way coordinates the Stuff the Bus school supply drive that directly benefits children throughout the District. The organization also partners with Parents as Teachers to enroll preschool age children in its Dolly Parton's Imagination Library program.