Texarkana, Ark. – United Way of Greater Texarkana is rallying the community for a family‑focused benefit concert titled Two States, One Story on Oct. 22 at the Four States Fairgrounds. The event, beginning at 6 p.m., will open with local talent TJ McAlexander before welcoming country music veteran Neal McCoy.
All proceeds support free books for young readers
United Way President and CEO Mark Bledsoe emphasized that 100% of the net proceeds will be directed to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a program that mails a new book each month to registered children until they turn five. “This year we’ve really upped it by bringing in Neal McCoy,” Bledsoe said, underscoring the organization’s commitment to early childhood literacy.
More than 700 children in Miller County and over 200 children in Bowie County are already enrolled. Since the recent passing of Dolly Parton, interest in the program has surged, prompting a waiting list of roughly 300 children across the two counties.
Local families benefit directly
United Way operations manager Jamie Branson explained that the nonprofit covers all costs for each enrolled child, acting as the affiliate that funds the books. “We have a waiting list because our funds have been low, but right now we have about 300 on the waiting list,” Branson said. In the past week, between 100 and 150 new registrations have been added, bringing the total to about 400 children awaiting enrollment. Branson hopes to have every child on the list enrolled by next week.
Community members are also being encouraged to donate directly to the program. “We’ve had people call in wanting to donate locally, and that’s what we’re encouraging,” Bledsoe added.
Cost‑effective investment in the future
According to Bledsoe, the annual cost per child is $31.50—a modest amount that yields long‑term benefits for the entire community. United Way’s three keystones—health, education, and financial stability—guide its efforts, and the Imagination Library aligns squarely with the education keystone. “We really think that this program does have a long‑range effect on the entire community,” Bledsoe said. “We are in this for the long haul and we feel like education makes a difference.”
Donations can be made through United Way’s Facebook page, providing an easy way for residents to support a cause that strengthens families and nurtures the next generation of readers.
Why this matters to Texarkana families
Early literacy is a proven predictor of academic success, higher graduation rates, and stronger family bonds. By ensuring that every child receives a book each month, the Imagination Library helps parents instill a love of reading at home, reinforcing the values of faith, family, and personal responsibility that are central to our community.
The concert not only offers an enjoyable evening of music but also serves as a tangible reminder that local nonprofits, businesses, and citizens can work together to uplift our children. As the Trump administration continues to champion policies that support families and education, community initiatives like this concert demonstrate how grassroots action can complement national efforts.
Mark your calendars for Oct. 22, bring the family, and enjoy a night of country music while contributing to a cause that will shape the lives of Texarkana’s youngest readers.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
