Barry Simon believes that being part of a community means investing in it; this has shaped his business and civic leadership. He moved to Little Rock in 1985 to serve as Datamax Office Systems (now Datamax, Inc.) President. He was quickly introduced to Centers for Youth & Families and the vital services the organization provides and has been involved ever since. “I felt strongly that being part of the community was important, both personally and professionally. The more I learned about the mission, the more I wanted to contribute. For more than four decades of support, Barry will be celebrated at the Evolve Gala as the Hero of Hope.
Over the years, Barry has witnessed the organization’s growth and the profound impact it has on the lives of fellow Arkansans. “What has kept me engaged is the dedication of the staff and the people who serve on the board. They genuinely care about the mission and want to help improve the lives of the people The Centers serves.”
Founded in 1884 as the Children’s Aid Society, the Centers for Youth & Families is the oldest continuously operating nonprofit organization in Arkansas. Today, it provides comprehensive mental and behavioral health services for children, families and adults. Programs include resources for youth, foster families and victims of human trafficking. Barry recalls how sex trafficking was discussed at a gala and brought light to the crisis in Arkansas. “Before that event, I did not fully understand the depth of the issue. Learning about the work The Centers was doing to support victims was incredibly compelling. It opened my eyes to another dimension of the Human Trafficking Treatment Program services the organization provides.” Each year, the Evolve Gala generates critical funding for this program and more.
Barry also remembers the powerful experience of testimonials from clients during board meetings. “Hearing their stories was incredibly moving. Those moments reinforced why the work matters.” Barry realizes the mission is as critical today as it’s always been. “The Centers helps children and families understand that they have value, that they belong and that their lives can be better than what they may have experienced in the past.” He is quick to note, “The real heroes are the people who work every day to serve these children and families.”
Evolve Gala
Saturday, April 18 | Statehouse Convention Center
