Methodist Foundation for Arkansas to subsidize portion of cost for participants
LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas (July 31, 2025)—The application window is now open for the Methodist Foundation for Arkansas Civil Rights Journey for Laity, planned for April 21-25, 2026.
The Methodist Foundation for Arkansas offers study/travel opportunities rooted in its commitment to resourcing leadership development and spiritual growth for United Methodist laity and clergy. This Civil Rights Journey for Laity builds upon the Arkansas Conference UMC’s Dismantling Racism Initiative. The Foundation will subsidize 50% of each selected participant’s cost for the five-day experience, which includes:
- Hotel accommodations in Tulsa, Memphis, Birmingham, and Montgomery
- Breakfast and dinner each day
- Private motor coach transportation
- Tours of more than a dozen museums, memorials, and historic sites spanning Arkansas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Alabama
- Group conversation with at least one leader in the Civil Rights Movement (Ms. Joanne Bland or Ms. Linda Blackmon Lowry)
Applications are due by October 1, 2025; applicants will learn their selection status by November 1. Those selected will need to secure their reservation with a $300 deposit by December 3. The remaining balance will depend upon the final size of the group: $415 for 30 or more participants or $287.50 for 50 or more participants. Pricing is based on shared hotel accommodations; participants may upgrade to private lodging for an additional fee. The balance of the participant cost will be due in March 2026.
The Foundation has partnered with Educational Travel Adventures, which specializes in experiential learning tours, to plan and manage the group’s travels. ETA provides a dedicated tour manager to travel with the group and access to 24/7 support for the duration of the journey.
If you’re feeling called to pursue this immersive opportunity, apply using the form linked below or contact Cathy Hall with questions:
