Fort Smith founded and Fort Smith based, the organization is dedicated to the dream-come-true of the founder, the late Gloria White, who worked tirelessly to see that no nursing home resident should live or die alone. Project Compassion began in 1972 as a volunteer one-to-one visitation program. Today, this focus is still the heartbeat of the organization.

Project Compassion volunteers talk with residents, listen to them, encourage them to reminisce and maintain interest in people, activities and events in the nursing home. Some volunteers provide music therapy, pet therapy and help residents with bingo, crafts and other group activities.

The Hearts of Gold collection at Christmas provides lap quilts, pajamas, sweaters and other warm clothing and needed items to residents, especially those without family.

Project Compassion also gives out bunnies during Easter and furnishes clothing protectors to maintain resident's dignity during during mealtimes.