Division of Enrollment Services Provides Holiday Gifts for Families in Need at Children’s House

Staff members unload gifts for Children's House.

Kathleen Davidson adds more gifts to take to Children's House.

Suzanne McCray and Kathleen Davidson search for more space.

Kathleen Davidson adds one of more than 75 gifts donated to EOA.

Terri Teters of Children's House and Kathleen Davidson of the university check the gifts.

Photo Submitted

Representatives from the University of Arkansas Division of Enrollment Services deliver gifts for families to the EOA Children’s House in Fayetteville. Pictured left to right are Kathleen Davidson, the assistant to the vice provost of enrollment; Terri Teters, the assistant director of Children’s House; Suzanne McCray, vice provost of enrollment; and Wendy Stouffer, interim director of academic scholarships.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The University of Arkansas Division of Enrollment Services joined forces with Economic Opportunity Agency’s Children’s House this holiday season to provide gifts for families in need. The enrollment services staff adopted two families purchasing enough gifts to fill two vans for delivery to Children’s House.

“We raised the money to purchase all these toys and clothing through our Jeans Day,” said Kathleen Davidson, assistant to the vice provost for enrollment. “We have a day twice a month when staff can wear jeans for a $2 donation. We are involved in various community efforts, but this is certainly a favorite for staff.”

“Working with Children’s House began with the office of admissions in 2005,” said Suzanne McCray, vice provost for enrollment. “We have now expanded that effort across the division, with approximately 90 people participating, allowing us to raise more funds as well as share the excitement with our larger community.”

“Everyone in the office of the registrar appreciated the chance to occasionally wear jeans to work for a good cause,” said Dave Dawson, registrar. “Our staff are very giving, and they appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the families of Children’s House.”

“Even though we only donated a few dollars at a time, it really added up,” stated Holly Moore, admissions counselor and volunteer gift wrapper. “It was so inspiring to see how much we were able to give to the families and to know that every little bit truly does count. Wrapping the 75 presents was the best part! The entire time I couldn’t help but think of the smiles on the children’s faces and the joy that our gifts would bring to them. It is a wonderful thing when you can team up with your coworkers and do something to better the community.”

EOA Children’s House was established through concerned community members recognizing a need for comprehensive care in a therapeutic setting for abused and neglected children.  Each day children between the ages of 18 months through five years of age are provided care in a home-like environment where they receive coordinated services to meet their educational, developmental, psychological and social needs.