The spirit of teamwork was on full display as Entergy Arkansas employees took to the water and volunteered behind the scenes during the River Cities Dragon Boat Festival, held at Lake Willastein Park in Maumelle, benefiting the Children’s Protection Center.
The event brought together community members from across central Arkansas to raise awareness and support for the Children’s Protection Center, which provides advocacy, safety and hope for children and families facing difficult circumstances.
For Entergy Arkansas Customer Service Manager Amanda Killingsworth, the event represented an opportunity to support a meaningful cause while strengthening relationships with coworkers outside the workplace.
“This was my second year to enter the race,” Killingsworth said. “I am always happy to volunteer to help our Entergy team show up in places that matter, especially for organizations like the Children’s Protection Center that makes such a meaningful impact in our communities.”
While some employees raced on the water, others volunteered their time helping set up and support the event. Together, they demonstrated Entergy Arkansas’s commitment to community involvement and service.
Killingsworth said the teamwork required to successfully compete in a dragon boat race closely resembles what employees experience every day on the job.
“Competing with my coworkers feels a lot like a day at work,” she said. “We face challenges every day, many of them new and unexpected, but we always show up ready to work together and get the job done. The race is a great reminder of the teamwork and determination we demonstrate every day.”
That teamwork was evident in every aspect of the competition. Dragon boat racing requires dozens of paddlers to move in perfect rhythm, relying on communication, trust and coordination to propel the boat forward.
“It is all teamwork,” Killingsworth said. “You can’t afford to have one person out of sync. Every paddle plays an important role, and success depends on communication, trust and a shared commitment to the goal.”
Although the Entergy Arkansas team did not take home the gold medal this year, they still had plenty to celebrate. The team earned recognition for having the best T-shirt design at the festival, showcasing their creativity, enthusiasm and team spirit. The award added to the fun of the day and reflected the pride employees take in representing Entergy Arkansas both on and off the water.
Beyond the competition, employees were motivated by the opportunity to support children and families in Arkansas.
“Children are some of the most vulnerable members of our communities, and organizations like the Children’s Protection Center provide safety, advocacy and hope when it’s needed most,” Killingsworth said. “I believe caring for children should be one of our highest priorities because they often depend on adults to be their voice and support system.”
For Killingsworth, participating in the festival reinforced what makes Entergy Arkansas employees special.
“I work with humans willing to show up in the warmest, wettest, strenuous conditions to help others,” she said. “Representing Entergy at an event like this is an honor because it reflects who we are beyond providing electricity. We are people who care deeply about our communities and look for opportunities to serve.”
Whether restoring power after storms, volunteering with nonprofit organizations or paddling in a dragon boat race, Entergy Arkansas employees continue demonstrating their commitment to powering life and making a positive difference across the state.
“Being involved in our communities shows that Entergy is more than a utility company,” Killingsworth said. “We are neighbors, volunteers, advocates and partners in creating stronger, safer and thriving communities. It’s about helping power people, progress and possibilities.”
