Charitable Contributions
We love and support the charities of Northwest Arkansas!
The Committee for Mardi Gras, Inc. is a 501C3 Non-Profit organization, and proceeds from our annual event are donated each year to a local charity.
From our Mission Statement:
It is our intent to make what charitable donations we can. When and where possible it is our intent to provide a venue, free of charge, to other public service and charitable organizations.
It is our mission to bring an influx of business to the Dickson Street area at a time of year that is otherwise low on cash flow. To this end it is not our intention to engage in commercial activities in direct competition with those businesses within our areas of operation.
Each year we raise funds from parade registrations, sponsorships, and donations from the community and businesses to pay expenses for the parade, and to support one or more local charities. The charities are chosen each year by our Royalty, and a check is presented at our after-party. Over the years, the Committee for Mardi Gras, Inc. has contributed thousands of dollars to our favorite charities.
Supporting the Fayetteville Mardi Gras means supporting the organizations in our area that make Northwest Arkansas shine!
Here is a list of some of the charities we have contributed to over the years:
7hills Homeless Center
Community Creative Center’s Wheel Mobile
Peace at Home Family Shelter
This Year’s Charity:
Canopy NWA: Welcoming Refugees, Empowering Communities
We are pleased to announce the charity chosen for 2025 by our reigning King & Queen, Dirk and Julie Thibodaux, Canopy NWA! Each year we raise money through sponsorships, and donate them to one local charity, chosen by our royalty. We are thrilled to support Canopy NWA this year. Here’s a little info about them:
In Northwest Arkansas, Canopy NWA stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for refugee families. Since its founding, Canopy has resettled over 900 individuals, helping them transition to life in the United States and equipping them with the tools to thrive. From securing safe housing and employment to offering mental health workshops, youth programs, and entrepreneurship opportunities, Canopy’s comprehensive services ensure that refugees feel supported every step of the way.
One of Canopy’s most innovative initiatives is the Long Welcome program, which extends wrap-around support for up to five years after a refugee family’s arrival. This holistic approach helps families move through four key phases—basic needs, stability, readiness, and thriving. By addressing immediate needs while fostering long-term independence and cultural integration, the Long Welcome ensures that refugee families not only survive but thrive as full, contributing members of their community.
Through the Path to Thriving, refugees achieve milestones like financial independence, access to education and healthcare, and deep social connections. These steps are vital to transforming new arrivals into confident, active participants in Northwest Arkansas’ vibrant community.
Another highlight of Canopy’s work is the Cottage Industry/Inspired Hands initiative, empowering women artisans from Afghanistan and Syria to share their handmade goods with the local market. This program offers a bridge between cultures while promoting financial independence and self-confidence.
With the support of partners like Fayetteville Mardi Gras, Canopy can continue its mission of welcoming families, empowering individuals, and enriching Northwest Arkansas with the diversity and resilience of its newest neighbors. Our partnership helps ensure that every refugee has the chance to build a new life filled with opportunity and belonging.
To learn more about Canopy NWA or support their programs, visit Canopy NWA’s website.
To help support Canopy NWA, please consider becoming a sponsor!
Would you like to make a donation to help Canopy NWA with their mission? Click the button to sign up as a sponsor, or use the form below to make an individual donation. And THANK YOU!