Small Town, Big Voice: A River Valley Benefit for ALS
The Heart of the Project
My name is Amy M. Ward. As a screenwriter, I’ve spent the last year immersed in a story called "In Her Words" - a script about a fierce, sharp-witted woman navigating an ALS diagnosis and the daughter who becomes her voice. Recently, this story was recognized as a Semi-Finalist at the Cannes Table Read My Screenplay competition—but now, I want the "words" to do some real-world good.
On May 30, 2026, on the historic Ozark Square, we are bringing this story to life through a live community table read festival. But this event isn't just about a script; it’s about ensuring that no Arkansan has to face an ALS diagnosis alone, regardless of where they live in our state.
Where Your Money Goes
We believe in radical transparency. Our goal is to ensure that the vast majority of every dollar raised goes exactly where it's needed most: to the ALS Association Arkansas Chapter.
The 20% (The Platform): A small portion of our goal covers the bare-bones costs of the event—permits for the Square, sound equipment so the community can hear the story, and accessibility features for attendees with mobility challenges. Western Edge Productions is donating all professional time and labor to ensure these costs stay as low as possible.
The 80% (The Mission):Everything else goes directly to the ALS Association.
This funding supports:
- Care Services: Providing medical equipment (like wheelchairs and communication devices) to families in the River Valley.
- Support Groups: Helping local caregivers find the community they need.
- Research: Funding the global search for a cure.
Why the River Valley?
ALS doesn't discriminate by zip code. Families in our communities, are fighting this disease every day, often far from major medical hubs. By hosting this event on the Square, we are bringing the resources to them.
Be the "Words" They Need
Whether you give $10 or $100, you are providing a "voice" for those who are losing theirs.
- $25 can help provide a specialized meal for a patient.
- $50 can contribute to a transportation grant for a clinic visit.
- $100 helps fund a multidisciplinary care team for a local family.
The "In Her Words" live event is our gift to the community.
Your donation is your gift to the families who need us most.
Please join us in Ozark on May 30th from 4 pm till 7 pm.
If you can’t donate, your "share" of this page is just as valuable in spreading the word.
With grit, grace, and tremendous gratitude,
Amy M. Ward
Founder, Western Edge Productions