10/21/2026
✨ Heroes of Hope 2026 ✨
What an incredible night of celebrating hope, healing, and justice - and the remarkable people who dedicate themselves to making all three possible.
This year, we were honored to celebrate an incredible group of nominees whose dedication to children and our community inspires us all.
We were also reminded of the profound impact one person can have on the lives of others.
Earlier this year, our MDT family lost an extraordinary partner and friend, Miller County Sheriff’s Department Detective Wesley Penny. For more than 20 years, Detective Penny faithfully served his community with courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. His dedication to children and families was evident in the way he served, and his commitment was recognized when he was named the 2025 Arkansas Hero of Hope Award recipient.
It was especially meaningful to welcome members of Detective Penny’s family to this year’s celebration. His sons, Bryar and Brett Penny, joined us to present the 2026 Arkansas Hero of Hope Award in their father’s honor - a beautiful reminder that his legacy of service, compassion, and hope continues.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make Heroes of Hope 2026 such a meaningful evening—our sponsors, vendors, donors, nominees, MDT partners, and guests. Your support allows us to continue honoring those who make a difference in the lives of children and families across our communities.
And now, with great pride, we congratulate our 2026 Hero of Hope Award recipients:
🏆 2026 Arkansas Hero of Hope
Ben Hale
Arkansas 8th North Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney
🏆 2026 Texas Hero of Hope
Judie Townsend
(Ret.) Department of Family & Protective Services & Bowie County Juvenile Probation
Congratulations to our 2026 Heroes of Hope!
Your dedication matters. Your service matters. And the lives you touch matter. ❤️
