Jones Trust NWA has opened its event hosting program to local nonprofits, community groups, and civic organizations in Northwest Arkansas. The initiative offers access to meeting spaces and administrative support for groups planning public-facing events such as fundraisers, workshops, and community forums.
The trust, established in 2019 with a focus on supporting charitable causes in Benton and Washington counties, is offering the service at no cost to vetted organizations. Priority is given to events that align with the trust’s mission areas: education, health, human services, and community development.
Organizations interested in hosting an event through the program must first complete an application and receive approval from the trust’s board. Approved applicants gain access to fully furnished spaces in Bentonville and Fayetteville, equipped with tables, chairs, audio-visual capabilities, and basic event supplies. The trust also provides limited staffing support for setup, check-in, and day-of-event coordination.
Who Can Apply
Eligible groups include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and government entities based in Northwest Arkansas. For-profit businesses and individuals are not eligible. Events must be open to the public or serve a demonstrable community need, such as job training, youth mentorship, or health education.
Preference is given to first-time applicants and organizations with annual budgets under $500,000. Previous recipients of Jones Trust grants are not disqualified but are encouraged to highlight how the event hosting opportunity will expand their reach or impact.
The trust does not cover external vendors, catering, or promotional costs. Groups are responsible for securing their own insurance and permits, where applicable.
How to Apply
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with decisions typically rendered within two weeks. Groups must submit a completed form via the Jones Trust website, along with a detailed event plan, expected attendance estimate, and proof of organizational status. A final site visit may be required before approval.
Event dates are subject to availability. The trust currently maintains two facilities: one in downtown Bentonville and another in central Fayetteville. Both locations are ADA compliant and can accommodate between 20 and 100 attendees, depending on layout.
Organizations that have previously partnered with Jones Trust include the Northwest Arkansas Food Pantry Network, the Boys & Girls Club of Springdale, and the Fayetteville Public Library Foundation. Past events have ranged from financial literacy seminars to back-to-school supply drives and community health screenings.
For groups seeking space for private functions—such as board meetings or volunteer trainings—the trust may offer discounted hourly rates on a case-by-case basis.
Supporting Local Impact
Jones Trust NWA was founded through the estate of local philanthropist Helen Jones, who directed that a portion of her assets be used to strengthen community infrastructure in the region. Since its inception, the trust has awarded over $2.3 million in grants and in-kind support to more than 120 organizations across Northwest Arkansas.
The event hosting program builds on that legacy by removing logistical barriers for smaller organizations that often lack access to affordable venues. In 2023, the trust piloted the service with five local groups, resulting in an estimated 1,200 community members reached through hosted events.
Groups using the space are required to submit a post-event report detailing attendance, outcomes, and any follow-up actions. These reports help the trust measure impact and inform future programming decisions.
Source: Jones Trust NWA
