Philanthropy is an investment of the heart.
It is about giving time, energy, ideas and actions to the betterment of one's community.
It is about supporting programs and projects that uplift people and provide them with the tools to succeed.
Hot Springs is blessed with many individuals who have championed philanthropic endeavors that have indeed brought hope to the lives of countless individuals and families.
One of those special persons is Ann Carrithers, the recently retired executive director of the Hot Springs Area Community Foundation, which was established in 1991.
Since 1995, when she was named administrator for the nonprofit organization, an affiliate of the Arkansas Community Foundation, Carrithers has fully committed herself to its mission -- "engaging people, connecting resources and inspiring solutions to build community."
She has done so with grace and determination, with wit and wisdom, with empathy and insight.
In the early years of her tenure, Carrithers, HSACF Board Chair Loren Mahoney, and numerous members of the board, told the foundation story through a series of personal presentations to civic and other nonprofits, during an informative seminar for professional financial advisers, via a semi-annual newsletter, and with a yearly reception to acknowledge the generous donors and contributors.
Carrithers has continued to acquaint Hot Springs citizens with the work of the foundation in meeting a range of needs across the city and county and also in neighboring communities that have benefited greatly from the largesse of local residents.
She has been a philanthropic role model for area high school students who participate in the Youth Advisory Council (YAC), a permanent committee of the foundation. Carrithers and two adult advisers teach these students the importance of grant-making and of finding ways to enhance the quality of life for men, women and children.
An efficient time-manager, a willing listener, a good and faithful steward of the foundation's gifts and endowments, Carrithers remains steadfast in her efforts to increase awareness and understanding about philanthropy and the good that can be accomplished right here in our hometown.
Her uncommon leadership skills have been validated by the Arkansas Community Foundation's 2001 Luminaria Award for Outstanding Service to a Local Affiliate and by the ACF's 2002 and 2007 Outstanding Affiliate Awards to the Hot Springs Area Community Foundation. In January 2016, Carrithers was named Woman of the Year by the Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce.
Passion and selflessness have always defined the manner in which she approaches every role she has undertaken -- wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, friend, neighbor and volunteer.
Her positive influence is irrefutable and immeasurable.
Hot Springs is indeed fortunate to have Ann Carrithers as an indefatigable advocate.
Editorial on 08/11/2016