Razorbacks Hoop It Up for the United Way

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When more than 19,200 fans packed Bud Walton Arena to cheer on the Razorback men's basketball team to a thrilling 81-77 overtime exhibition game victory over Purdue, it was more than just the Hogs that came out as big winners.

In conjunction with the U of A's United Way campaign, Razorback Athletics supplemented its annual support of the campaign with proceeds from the highly anticipated game. As a result of that commitment and with the help of Razorback fans, proceeds totaling $254,694 were generated to support the Arkansas 211 program of the United Way of NWA.

"Razorback Athletics is proud to be a part of the University of Arkansas' annual United Way campaign that supports people throughout Arkansas," said Hunter Yurachek, vice chancellor and director of athletics. "When we identified the opportunity to host an exhibition game with a marquee opponent to bolster our support for the campus campaign and Arkansas 211, it was something that we simply couldn't pass up. I am grateful to our university campaign leadership, those with United Way and Purdue University who worked alongside us to make this special event possible. I also want to thank Razorback fans who helped make the day, not just a memorable win at Bud Walton Arena, but a meaningful investment into the lives of those living in our community and state."

On Monday, a special ceremony was held during the Arkansas men's basketball game against Furman at Bud Walton Arena to present a check in support of Arkansas 211 and the United Way of Northwest Arkansas.

"We are profoundly grateful to Razorback Athletics for choosing Arkansas 211, a program headquartered at United Way of Northwest Arkansas, as the benefactor of the charity game," said Jackie Hancock, president and CEO of United Way of Northwest Arkansas. "This partnership exemplifies the spirit of community and compassion, and together, we are making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need throughout our state. The support from Razorback Athletics will enhance our ability to serve our neighbors. We extend our appreciation to everyone involved for their commitment to making a positive difference throughout Arkansas."

The United Way of Northwest Arkansas has served the region since 1931 with the purpose of harnessing the collective strength and generosity of the community to empower everyone in the region to thrive. Donations fund direct support for programs that help meet the needs of community members by increasing access to vital resources such as housing, education, childhood development and more.

In 1935, students at the U of A mobilized to help United Way raise funds for community programs. That was the start of a lasting friendship between the campus community and United Way of Northwest Arkansas. Campaign co-chairs this year were Peter MacKeith, dean of the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design; Suzanne McCray, vice provost of Enrollment Services; and Elvis Moya, associate athletics director of community outreach and fan engagement.