Growing Stronger Communities Together

The Cornerstone Foundation is proud to share the impact of The Acorn Project, a donor advised fund established by Patterson Federal Credit Union in 2024. This initiative embodies our mission of empowering credit unions to uplift their communities.

Hunger affects learning. The Acorn Project funds the Arkadelphia School District’s backpack program, sending 225–250 food bags home each week with children in need. At $3 per bag, that’s more than $25,000 annually to keep kids fed on weekends and school breaks.

Impact So Far:

• Seeded with $10,000 and bolstered by $8,638 in sponsorships and a $1,200 grant.
• Every dollar goes back to local students.
• Packing parties bring together church youth groups, civic clubs, police, sports teams, and business volunteers to prepare 500 bags at a time.

Momentum Building: In August, The Acorn Project launched a recurring donor drive aiming for $3,600/month by year’s end. Already, $900/month is pledged—each donor proudly sporting an Acorn Project shirt.

In Their Words:

• “The Acorn Project has been a game changer for our students, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals.” —De’Shae Craig, elementary counselor
• “No school counselor faces the responsibility of sourcing, packing, or distributing food alone.” —Elizabeth Morris, high school counselor

What’s Next: With Patterson’s expansion into six more counties, The Acorn Project is poised to support even more children across Arkansas communities.

The Bottom Line: Donor-advised funds demonstrate how credit unions, with the Foundation’s support, can create lasting community impact. Is your credit union interested in starting a nonprofit foundation or charity? Learn more about how the Cornerstone Foundation can help.