Special Events

Throughout the year, the Community Service Youth Foundation hosts several special events. The funds from these events help support CSI’s youth programs across North, Northwest, and Central Arkansas. These programs help youth overcome challenges, empower them with knowledge, and help them succeed in life whether it is at school, in their homes, vocations, or communities.

Steve Willbanks was the President and CEO of Community Service, Inc. (CSI) for over 40 years. During that time, Mr. Willbanks prioritized that youth services be at the forefront of communities. He wanted to ensure youth and their families had access to services regardless of payment. A bill was never sent to a family for services provided by CSI. CSI continues that mission today.

Mr. Willbanks passed away in 2011. After his passing, the Steve Willbanks Tribute was implemented to recognize an individual in Conway County who shares Mr. Willbanks’ passion and commitment to youth. Each year, an individual who stands out in Conway County is selected to be the Steve Willbanks Tribute Honoree.

Past Award Winners

2025 – Mr. Keith Zackery
2024 – Mr. Shawn Halbrook
2023 – Mrs. Phyllis Gordon
2022 – Mr. Ray Moll
2021 – Mr. and Mrs. Todd and Leann Haynes
2020 – Event Not Held Due to Pandemic
2019 – Mr. John Maus
2018 – Mr. Raymond Chambers
2017 – Mrs. Judy Calhoun
2016 – Mrs. Gwen Massingill
2015 – Ms. Katherine Foust
2014 – Judge Jimmy Hart
2013 – Mr. Charles Penick
2012 – Attorney General Dustin McDaniel
2011 – Mr. John Gibson

 

In 2020, CSI offices expanded into Northwest Arkansas. Since the expansion of CSI, there have been individuals who have gone above and beyond to bring brighter days to youth in NWA. Each year, an individual in Northwest Arkansas is honored during an event that celebrates all the work they have done over the years. Brighter Days was established in 2021. We are looking forward to honoring those who have brought Brighter Days to youth throughout Northwest Arkansas.

In 2025, the Community Service Youth Foundation created a new fundraising event that is held in Conway. CSI honors individuals who create hope for youth, who bring them brighter days and those who help empower the futures of youth. In 2025, Empowering Futures honored its first honoree, Thelma Moton. Mrs. Moton, founder and CEO of Choosing to Excel, has empowered the futures of many youths over the years throughout Conway. We are excited to continue this event throughout the upcoming years.

Our first ever Lanes of Hope bowling tournament was hosted in Harrison in 2025. The Community Service Youth Foundation, in collaboration with the local bowling alley and several teams from the community, brought hope to youth through raising awareness and funds to support youth programs. Lanes of Hope could be coming to a bowling alley near you!