A Community to Call Home
Learn more about why Northwest Arkansas is one of the top places to live in the country
Northwest Arkansas
The cities and towns of Northwest Arkansas are connected by a shared history, culture and geography – and community-minded residents who are working to improve the quality of life for all. At the Walton Family Foundation, we’re proud to support those committed to building a region with great schools, vibrant downtowns, diverse arts and culture, access to trails and nature and a flourishing entrepreneurial spirit.
What is the essence of a thriving community – a place you’d want to call home? At the Walton Family Foundation, we believe it starts with people working alongside their neighbors to improve quality of life for all. Across Northwest Arkansas and in the Delta region of Arkansas and Mississippi, we’re proud to support those committed to building towns and cities with great schools, vibrant downtowns, diverse arts and culture, access to trails and nature and a flourishing entrepreneurial spirit.
Arts & Culture
Learn more about the art, artists and musicians that bring vibrancy to the region
August 1, 2019
A new exhibit at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art examines how artists shape understanding of the natural world.
July 11, 2019
A regional arts organization makes its debut in Northwest Arkansas
June 17, 2019
Ra-Ve Cultural Foundation is increasing access to traditional Indian dance and music
March 21, 2019
One organization helps budding designers create a vibrant fashion scene in Northwest Arkansas
In Springdale, Arkansas, a new collaborative space for the region’s youth offers a creative sanctuary and jump-off for community engagement.
Sense of Place
February 7, 2018
In Northwest Arkansas, growing populations, increased vitality characterize city cores
January 10, 2018
When mountain biker Tandie Bailey signed up for the first Slaughter Pen Jam race in Bentonville, Arkansas a decade ago, she recalls “there weren’t very many girls, maybe three others” with her at the starting line.
December 19, 2017
The National Interscholastic Cycling Association aims to expand the sport's popularity among young women in Northwest Arkansas
December 13, 2017
A Volunteer’s Guide to Maintaining Mountain Bike Trails in Northwest Arkansas
How Colorado State University and the City of Fort Collins teamed up to build a more bike-friendly community
Entrepreneurship & Innovation
March 2, 2017
By the time Omar Kasim graduated from high school in 2012, the Tulsa, Oklahoma student had already mapped out a clear course for his life. He intended to study business management at the University of Arkansas, then head off to law school after earning his undergraduate degree.
January 26, 2017
Regional venture team aids new businesses with no-cost mentoring, training
June 8, 2015
Innovating for high-quality schools in Indianapolis
Education
July 6, 2022
The award-winning artist, actor, author and activist says school helped him discover his potential. Now he’s helping students from his hometown find theirs
March 11, 2022
In his new book, “The Opportunity to Rise,” Bruno V. Manno shares his “rational optimism” about the future of K-12 education in America
January 7, 2020
Great schools open a world of opportunity for students. In Northwest Arkansas, the Walton Family Foundation is working to ensure all students receive a high-quality education at the school where they can learn best, while giving teachers the freedom and flexibility to put kids first. Because the region’s future belongs to its children, we’re supporting innovators, school leaders and teachers who are creating vibrant and dynamic educational options that meet the individual needs of students.
February 23, 2022
In a region where high-quality teachers are in high demand, Teach Plus helps educators advocate for changes so they – and their students – can thrive
We must bring everyone to the table for solutions that meet student needs inside and outside of school
By the Numbers
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September 12, 2019View flashcards from the latest Quality of Life survey -
March 29, 2018Learn how cycling and trails impact the quality of life. -
February 7, 2018Examining the challenges and opportunities of the region
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Press Releases
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January 29, 2025More than 100 architecture, landscape architecture, urban design and planning firms now shaping the future of public spaces in Northwest Arkansas -
December 16, 2024Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission and Bentonville Public Schools awarded planning grants to advance regional connectivity and educational excellence
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August 1, 2024Shows a slight decline since 2018, identifies challenges in transportation and affordability