In today’s increasingly complex and resource-constrained environment, nonprofit organizations are doing more than ever before, often with limited funding, staffing, and institutional support. As a result, spaces and organizations that provide nonprofits with connections, professional development, and practical tools for sustainability are not just valuable, they are vital to the work of today’s nonprofits. One such initiative is the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith’s (UAFS) Center for Nonprofits.
Established in April 2025 within the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith’s Center for Economic Development, the Center for Nonprofits represents a major investment in the future of the River Valley region’s nonprofit sector. Backed by a $7.5 million endowment, the Center for Nonprofits, under the leadership of Director Emily Treadway, is designed to serve as a regional hub dedicated to strengthening nonprofit organizations throughout the River Valley.
“The Center connects community partners with university expertise to help nonprofits expand their impact, build sustainable organizations, and develop future leaders,” said Treadway. Currently, it’s the only Arkansas-based representative of the National Council of Nonprofits, reflecting an important commitment to community development, leadership, and long-term impact.
At the heart of the Center’s initiative is its focus on capacity-building through real-world application. The Center provides a range of resources, including workshops, consulting services, nonprofit leadership education, and professional development opportunities, to equip nonprofit leaders with the skills needed to navigate the challenges of working in the public sector.
It’s also a training and support hub, providing resources for governance and financial management by bringing experienced experts in fundraising and nonprofit financing. These programs are designed to translate directly into stronger, more effective nonprofits in the region.
What makes the UAFS Center for Nonprofits particularly impactful is its emphasis on collaboration and accessibility. Through free memberships for nonprofit organizations serving Fort Smith and the River Valley residents, member organizations gain access to national-level resources, peer networks, and even exclusive mini-grant funding to support strategic initiatives that help strengthen community impact. By lowering the barrier to entry, the Center helps ensure that nonprofits of all sizes, especially those with limited resources, can benefit from high-quality support. At the same time, networking events and peer learning opportunities bring leaders together, fostering partnerships and shared solutions across the public sector.
One of the Center’s more defining aspects is its integration of student learning and hands-on experience. “The Center collaborates closely with UAFS students and faculty to create meaningful connections between academic learning and community impact,” Treadway shared.
Through this hands-on work, the Center creates opportunities for students to engage directly with nonprofit organizations, applying their classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. This approach not only helps strengthen local nonprofits but also prepares the next generation of public sector leaders.
Equally important is the Center’s role in strengthening the broader community. By investing in the capacity and sustainability of after-school programs, faith-based organizations, museums, and cultural institutions–which are often on the front lines of addressing issues such as homelessness, food insecurity, and addiction recovery- the UAFS Center for Nonprofits is uplifting organizations to expand services and impact across the region.
The work of the UAFS Center for Nonprofits reminds us that strong communities are built through strong organizations and that meaningful change happens when education, collaboration, and service come together.
To learn more about the UAFS Center for Nonprofits, visit UAFS.edu/CED/CNP
This article is part of the Engage Arkansas 2026 Civic Challenge. The Civic Challenge focuses on one vital impact area affecting Arkansans statewide each month. In April, Engage Arkansas highlighted the importance of volunteerism and community action. To learn more about Engage Arkansas, visit EngageArkansas.org.
Axton Tackett, April 2026
