When National Guard soldiers and airmen mobilize during severe weather, disaster response or community emergencies, a question often follows: how can we support those who support us? For Arkansas National Guard Foundation Executive Director Randy Lann, that answer is clear and timely: gratitude through action.
Randy stepped out of retirement to join the Arkansas National Guard Foundation and lead the organization into a new phase of philanthropy. This effort expands support for the thousands of Guard Members who serve across the state. In this role, he breaks what some might consider protocol; Randy does not come from the ranks of retired senior military command. He explains it as a deliberate decision to broaden and strengthen partnerships. “I know a lot of people that can help these guys. Everybody wants to do something for the National Guard, but they just don’t know how.”
The Arkansas National Guard has approximately 8,000 members with about 6,000 in the Army National Guard and 2,000 in the Air National Guard. Established in 1967, the Arkansas National Guard Foundation offers programs to service members. Its mission is broad but focused: to support members, veterans, dependents and survivors while also partnering with other organizations that strengthen the state’s veteran communities. Initiatives include educational opportunities, emergency relief, medical and dental readiness, youth engagement and legacy preservation. Additionally, the foundation has awarded more than $1.8 million in scholarships and provided emergency assistance, survivor services and other resources designed to fortify families.
Randy’s path to the Arkansas National Guard Foundation is rooted in decades of leadership with nonprofit organizations and a lifetime commitment to service. A native of Magnolia, he worked in his family’s furniture business before landing at the Arkansas Home Furnishings Association for more than two decades. His resume also includes 20 years with the Arkansas State Police Foundation Board of Directors. Although Randy was never in the military, he insists that service has always been “in his blood.” He credits his childhood for shaping his philanthropic philosophy. “My dad told me, and I’ll never forget – ‘Randy, always be a giver. Never be a taker.’” This brought him into a new chapter with ambitious goals for the organization’s future. Randy plans to significantly expand educational opportunities for members; currently at 50 academic scholarships and 10 trade school scholarships are available.
A major capital development project, the new Camp Robinson Event Center, is gaining momentum. Randy’s schedule is bustling with activities. Next month, the Arkansas National Guard Foundation will host its inaugural “Doc” Collier Memorial Golf Tournament at Hardscrabble Country Club in Fort Smith. This summer, the foundation will welcome students to Minute Man Youth Camp at Camp Robinson. Designed to educate and inspire young people, the camp expounds on how and why the military protects the nation. Activities include military equipment tours, time with members and a chance to experience the Black Hawk helicopters. “They learn, but they also have fun. It’s something they never forget.” Randy believes the more people understand about the National Guard Foundation, the more they can appreciate the devotion service members make to the National Guard. He insists his mission with the organization is simple: help Arkansans connect their gratitude with meaningful action. “They give us all the service that nobody can even imagine. It’s time to put into action what we can provide to them.”
Arkansas National Guard Foundation
