Former Razorback and Dallas Cowboy Darren McFadden will be the keynote speaker for the Wolfe Street Foundation’s 25th Annual Red Carpet Recovery Gala.
On Thursday, April 25, at The Venue at Westwind in North Little Rock, the gala will raise funds to support the recovery center located in downtown Little Rock. To support its mission to create a safe space for those in recovery, there will once again be no alcohol at the event.
“We are thrilled to welcome former Razorback and NFL superstar Darren McFadden as the keynote speaker for this year’s Red Carpet Recovery Gala,” said Justin Buck, executive director of the Wolfe Street Foundation. “Darren’s impact on and off the field, coupled with his inspiring journey through recovery, aligns perfectly with our mission to create a safe space for those seeking recovery.”
On Wednesday, April 24, Darren McFadden will be at Mosaic Templars Cultural Center allowing fans to meet and take photos with him. Tickets to the special meet & greet opportunity can be purchased online at https://app.theauxilia.com/
Recovery Leadership Awards will also be presented to Curtis Barnett and Rebecca Pittillo at the gala.
“As leaders of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas, respectively, their commitment to supporting recovery initiatives in our community is truly commendable,” Buck added. “This year’s gala promises to be a transformative event, bringing together individuals dedicated to positively impacting the lives of those in recovery.”
About Darren McFadden:
Darren McFadden is an Arkansas native who made a significant impact in the NFL as a dynamic running back, notably playing for the Oakland Raiders and the Dallas Cowboys. Before going pro, he gained acclaim as a Razorback at the University of Arkansas. He also showcased exceptional skills and versatility on the field as a two-time Heisman Trophy finalist and consensus All-American.
Recently, McFadden has been transparent about his personal journey, overcoming challenges related to addiction. His commitment to a sober lifestyle reflects resilience and determination, inspiring others facing similar struggles. Today, McFadden continues to contribute to the football community, showcasing that success extends beyond the field to include personal triumphs and transformations.
About Curtis Barnett:
Barnett, a leader in the health care sector, has spearheaded initiatives within Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and nationally to foster a culture of support and understanding for individuals in recovery and those struggling with mental health conditions. He’s challenged his company to be a leader in providing innovative approaches for improving behavioral health awareness, access and outcomes for the members and communities it serves. This work includes employing certified peer support specialists, who are using their lived experience to help improve the overall health of those in recovery, as part of the Arkansas Blue Cross behavioral health care management team.
Barnett has created an environment that encourages openness, destigmatizes mental health discussions and offers crucial resources for those in need. His advocacy for improving access to behavioral health care reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between physical and mental well-being. Barnett’s personal experience with a close family member’s struggle with addiction underscores his empathy and commitment to driving change. Through his leadership and advocacy efforts, Barnett exemplifies the spirit of recovery leadership, offering hope and support to individuals and families navigating the path to recovery in Arkansas.
About Rebecca Pittillo:
Under Pittillo’s leadership, the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas has provided substantial funding, totaling more than $1 million in the past three years, to support various projects at Wolfe Street, including the transformative Youth Empowerment Project. This initiative empowers young people to navigate their journey to recovery, fostering healthy relationships and resilience as they transition into adulthood.
Pittillo’s advocacy extends beyond financial support, as evidenced by her heartfelt personal story of loss and resilience. Following the tragic loss of her son to suicide, Pittillo turned her grief into a driving force for change, becoming a passionate advocate for mental health and behavioral health care. By addressing the root causes of substance use and mental health challenges, Pittillo’s work embodies the spirit of recovery leadership and offers hope for a brighter future for individuals and families across the state.
The event will include a live and silent auction, live entertainment, dinner and mocktails curated by Mocktail Mo. Tickets are available for $225 per individual or $400 per couple. Tickets can be purchased online at wolfestreet.org/redcarpet.
Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to include information about a meet & greet opportunity with Darren McFadden.
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