ARVAC, Inc.

Overview

The Arkansas River Valley Area Council, Inc. (ARVAC) is a nonprofit community action agency established in 1965. It is dedicated to promoting economic and social development in the Arkansas River Valley region. ARVAC serves a nine-county area, including Conway, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Perry, Polk, Pope, Scott, and Yell counties.

History

ARVAC was formed as part of President Lyndon Johnson's War on Poverty initiative, which aimed to address pervasive indigence in Central Arkansas. Initially, ARVAC was involved with the Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) program, focusing on local economic development and issues related to flood control and navigation of the Arkansas River. Over time, ARVAC expanded its scope to address broader social issues.

Programs and Services

ARVAC offers a variety of programs designed to assist low-income families in achieving self-sufficiency. These services include:

• Substance Abuse Treatment: ARVAC operates a residential alcohol, drug, and treatment service known as Freedom House, which has helped thousands of community members.
• Education: Comprehensive early childhood education programs are available for children ages 0-5.
• Emergency Assistance: Services such as food pantries and assistance with heating bills are provided to support vulnerable populations.
• Housing Initiatives: ARVAC has been involved in housing development for low-income families, utilizing community-driven approaches.

Financial Overview

As of recent years, ARVAC has reported revenues of approximately $18.1 million and expenses of about $18.6 million annually. The organization's total assets and liabilities are $12 million and $4.32 million, respectively. Contributions make up a significant portion of ARVAC's revenue.

Mission and Vision

ARVAC's mission is to promote self-sufficiency and provide pathways out of poverty for individuals, families, and communities. Its vision involves creating thoughtfully designed services that empower communities economically through education, health, and additional support structures.