About Our Programs

Program managers are responsible for developing and implementing plans specific to their programs, ensuring alignment with the overall mission of the Arkansas Freedom Fund (AFF). Directors focus on planning, organizing, and executing fundraising events that support AFF’s vision, including setting realistic goals, managing budgets, meeting deadlines, and adhering to best practices.

Transparency is crucial to AFF’s relationship with its members and community partners, and program managers play a key role in maintaining it. They must be strategic thinkers capable of leading and developing teams dedicated to serving veterans and the communities in which they operate.​​

To apply to any of the open program director positions, please email: [email protected]
Hunting Program
Program Director: Mark Sandridge
Vice Hunting Director: Chris Archer
Assistant: Brandy Sullivan
Program Director: Mark Sandridge
​Vice Hunting Director: Chris Archer
Assistant: Brandy Sullivan

About the Program: 
The Hunting Program provides veterans with an incredible opportunity to engage in outdoor recreation, connect with nature, and build strong bonds with fellow veterans and the community. Our hunting trips are designed to accommodate veterans of all abilities, offering adaptive equipment and accessible hunting blinds to ensure that everyone can participate.
These hunting trips not only promote physical activity but also offer a peaceful environment where veterans can experience the therapeutic benefits of nature. Whether it's through small game or large game hunts, veterans have the chance to decompress, challenge themselves, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with shared outdoor experiences.
Our program is focused on fostering relaxation, healing, and connection, giving veterans the opportunity to engage in a meaningful, outdoor activity that supports both their physical and mental well-being.
Fishing Program
Program Director: OPEN
​Program Director: OPEN
The Fishing Program Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the planning, organization, and execution of fishing-related activities, all while aligning with the mission of the Arkansas Freedom Fund (AFF). This includes setting achievable goals, managing budgets, coordinating event logistics, and ensuring the program meets the needs of veterans and community partners. Transparency, especially in program operations and reporting, is essential to maintaining trust with participants and supporters.

About the Fishing Program:
The Fishing Program offers a unique opportunity for veterans to connect with nature, enjoy outdoor recreation, and bond with fellow veterans and the community. Fishing trips and events are designed to promote relaxation, healing, and camaraderie, offering a peaceful way for veterans to decompress and enjoy the outdoors.

Opportunities for Veterans with Approved Organizations:
Hooked on Heroes provides fishing opportunities through tournaments in the state.  Contact: Roger at (501)381-4456 or Email [email protected]​.

The United Methodist Mens Group leads the Summer John Pickell Memorial Red River Fishing Day at Lobo Landing.
Martial Arts
Martial Arts Director: Anthony Smith
Program Director: Anthony Smith

A key part of the Arkansas Freedom Fund's (AFF) budget is dedicated to supporting our Martial Arts Program, where we strive to help veterans achieve their full potential. One of our standout participants, Anthony Smith Sr., a retired U.S. Army veteran, competes globally and holds a world ranking in martial arts.

Anthony not only excels in competition but also serves as a motivational speaker, providing inspiring talks and demonstrations to schools and civic groups across the country. His dedication to martial arts and his extensive travels to defend his world championships showcase the discipline, perseverance, and resilience that he embodies.

We invite you to join us in supporting Anthony as he continues to pursue excellence both on and off the mat. Your contribution helps us empower him and others to reach new heights.
Cycling Program
Cycling Program Director: Matthew Newby
Program Director: Matthew Newby

About the Cycling Program: 
A key program at the Arkansas Freedom Fund (AFF) is our  Cycling Program, designed to help veterans of all abilities stay active, healthy, and engaged. Through bikes and equipment, veterans can participate in cycling regardless of physical limitations, offering a sense of freedom and accomplishment. 

One of the core values of the program is inclusivity, ensuring that every veteran, no matter their physical condition, can experience the joy and benefits of cycling. Our adaptive bikes are specially designed to accommodate various needs, making the program accessible to all.

The Cycling Program not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters camaraderie among veterans. Group rides and events provide opportunities for veterans to connect with each other and the community, building supportive networks while enjoying the outdoors.

Help us keep the wheels turning by supporting this transformative program. Your contributions allow us to maintain and expand our fleet of adaptive bikes, ensuring that more veterans across Arkansas can participate, stay active, and achieve their personal fitness goals. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our veterans.
Golf Program
Program Director (Open)
Assistant Program Director (Open)
Program Director: OPEN
The Golf Program Director must fulfill the responsibilities of a director as outlined, which includes planning, organizing, and executing events within the broader mission of the Arkansas Freedom Fund (AFF). This role requires setting achievable goals, managing budgets, adhering to deadlines, and ensuring transparency in all program operations. The director must also foster relationships with community partners, veterans, and members to ensure the success of the program.

About the Golf Program: 
The Golf Program is an excellent way to bring together Arkansas veterans and the community in a supportive, recreational environment. The program not only promotes physical activity and camaraderie but also provides access to specialized golf equipment. Veterans can check out this equipment on a first-come, first-served basis, making the game accessible to players of all abilities. By participating, veterans can enjoy a relaxing and rehabilitative activity while building connections with fellow veterans and community members.

Annual Freedom Scramble: Dates and Info Announced Soon!

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Hiking Program
Hiking Program Director (OPEN)
Program Director: OPEN

The Hiking and Camping Program Director is responsible for overseeing the planning, organization, and execution of fishing-related activities, all while aligning with the mission of the Arkansas Freedom Fund (AFF). This includes setting achievable goals, managing budgets, coordinating event logistics, and ensuring the program meets the needs of veterans and community partners. Transparency, especially in program operations and reporting, is essential to maintaining trust with participants and supporters. The Hiking and Camping Director can also manage the Kayaking program.

About the Program:
The Hiking Program offers veterans a unique opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy outdoor recreation, and build meaningful bonds with fellow veterans and the community. Through guided hikes on various trails across Arkansas, veterans can experience the beauty of the outdoors while improving their physical and mental well-being.
The program is open to veterans of all abilities, with hikes designed to accommodate varying levels of fitness and experience. Whether it’s a casual walk through scenic trails or a more challenging trek, each hike provides an opportunity for veterans to engage in physical activity, find relaxation, and experience the therapeutic benefits of nature.​
 Kayaking Program
Kayaking Equipment Manager: OPEN
Equipment Manager: OPEN

The Kayaking Program Director is responsible for overseeing the planning, organization, and execution of fishing-related activities, all while aligning with the mission of the Arkansas Freedom Fund (AFF). This includes setting achievable goals, managing budgets, coordinating event logistics, and ensuring the program meets the needs of veterans and community partners. Transparency, especially in program operations and reporting, is essential to maintaining trust with participants and supporters.

About the Program: 
The Kayaking Program offers veterans a chance to connect with nature, stay active, and experience the tranquility of Arkansas’s beautiful waterways. AFF owns a fleet of kayaks that veterans can check out on a first-come, first-served basis, making the program accessible to all skill levels and abilities. Whether paddling on calm lakes or exploring gentle rivers, these kayaking trips offer both adventure and relaxation.

In addition to providing kayaks, we are actively seeking donations to expand our fleet and position more kayaks throughout the state. This will allow more veterans across Arkansas to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of kayaking, promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, and camaraderie. Your support will help us ensure that all veterans have the opportunity to participate and connect with others through this rewarding outdoor activity.