Let's Say Thanks! Village Employees Benefit Fund. Donate Now!

In 1999, a devasting ice storm completely paralyzed Hot Springs Village. Pine trees snapped and were pushed over throughout the Village. Roads became impassable and very dangerous. Our POA employees, regardless of their normal job description, responded immediately clearing the roads to ensure emergency vehicles could reach residents. The massive cleanup was a heroic effort, way beyond the normal call of duty. 

After the ice storm, three individuals (Bud Holt, Bob Smith, and Bill Brusenhan) met to find a way to say “THANK YOU” to each of the POA employees whose work so directly impacts the quality of our lives. 

As a result, the Village Employees Benefit Fund was founded. It is a separate entity—not part of the POA or tied to POA employee benefits—to recognize and thank hourly workers for their service. Monies come from the generous donations of people and businesses in the Village.

The first year, the founders were able to raise donations from their friends so that each employee was given a $16 “THANK YOU” holiday gift from the Fund. 

In 2023, thanks to the generosity of over a thousand Villagers and nearly three dozen local business sponsors, the VEBF was able to provide a cash gift of $320 for every full-time hourly employee, and $160 for every part-time hourly employee. Funds were distributed by VEBF board members at the annual POA Employee holiday luncheon with a note of appreciation from Villagers and local business sponsors. 

In addition to the annual cash appreciation gift to hourly employees, the VEBF has provided emergency assistance to several employees during times of crisis in their personal lives. While the amounts were not large, the timing was critical for these employees. 

Every Villager who has ever required a service from the POA knows our workers will do everything possible to ensure the problem is corrected quickly. Whether you’ve donated to VEBF in the past, or you’re making a donation for the first time, your gift really makes a difference in our workers’ lives.

Nothing happens in Hot Springs Village until a POA employee comes to work.

Join us in supporting our workers for a job well done, not just today, but 365 days a year, to make Hot Springs Village a great place to live.