We’re midway through October—still without a Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions for Fiscal Year 2026—yet still as determined as ever to keep our doors open in welcome.
Please join us on Friday, October 24th from 12–1 p.m. for a special webinar where Canopy’s leadership team will share updates on the current state of national refugee resettlement policy, recent federal funding changes, and what these shifts mean for refugee families and the Long Welcome here in Arkansas.
This month also marks the start of our ninth cohort of entrepreneurs in the Plan It class! Follow along on our social media channels for details about the upcoming Pitch Competition andEntrepreneurship Expo, featuring newly launched local businesses later this fall. In the meantime, explore Canopy’s Entrepreneurship Directory and Inspired Hands to discover the diversity of refugee-owned businesses right here in Northwest Arkansas—and maybe order delicious baklava while you’re at it.
We also launched Chai & Chat, a new series of gatherings designed to build belonging in our community. Over a relaxed cup of tea, this month’s theme was volunteerism. We celebrated our dedicated Canopy volunteers and connected with neighbors about how they like to serve locally. A huge thank-you to Ozark Natural Foods for hosting our first event! We look forward to bringing Chai & Chat to neighborhoods across NWA.
Have an idea for a venue or want to request a speaker? We’d love to hear from you—reach us here.
With gratitude, Joanna Krause
Upcoming Events...
State of Canopy Webinar (virtual)
As mentioned above, join us for this special conversation with Canopy leadership to discuss the national updates for refugee resettlement, recent funding changes, and what it all means for Canopy moving forward into 2026.
Inspired Hands Pop Up @ Pedal Park Come out and enjoy an evening filled with flavor, artistry, and community. Inspired Hands will be serving up a variety of delicious foods, including warm naan, sweet baklava, flavorful chutneys, and more! All available for purchase. You’ll also have the chance to experience the beauty of henna art from a local artist.
It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, support local talent, and enjoy a wonderful evening together.
📅 Date: October 30th ⏰ Time: 6-8pm
Fayetteville Farmer's Market
Join us at the Fayetteville Farmers Market! Stop by our table to learn more about Canopy NWA’s work supporting refugees as they build new lives and become part of our shared community. We’d love to see you there and share how you can get involved in welcoming our newest neighbors.
📅 Date: Saturday October 25th ⏰ Time: 8am-1pm
Canopy's International Food Tour
We’re thrilled to announce that Inspired Hands has sold out for the November 14th International Food Tour! A huge thank you to everyone who registered. We can’t wait to share this delicious and cultural experience with you. If you missed out this time, don’t worry! Keep an eye out for when we announce our next Tour coming in the New Year, and be ready to join us for another unforgettable culinary adventure.
📅 Date:SOLD OUT ⏰ Time: SOLD OUT
Impact Story
When new neighbors arrive in Northwest Arkansas, Canopy’s Circle of Welcome volunteers are the first to greet them. They turn apartments into homes, offer friendship, and walk beside families as they build new lives.
In our latest blog, Kimberly Elder reflects on the heart of this program and the incredible volunteers who keep the welcome going, no matter what.
Canopy Northwest Arkansas is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization under the Internal Revenue Code. All donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law. EIN: 81-1305235
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