Local Charities in Louisville, KY

If you’re a Louisville, Kentucky, native, you know that this community is one of the most giving and generous in the nation. If you want to give back to the community, you can volunteer with or support countless charities. So where should you focus your resources? Get to know 10 local charities in Louisville and learn how to get involved.

Image via Unsplash by jmuniz

Active Heroes

Active Heroes is on a mission to support active members of the military, veterans, and their family members. This organization strives to keep heroes active through a variety of physical programs and educational workshops, with the ultimate goal of eliminating military and veteran suicide.

Although Active Heroes holds events and offers peer mentorship in every state, it’s headquartered here in Louisville. The organization also has a community center in the Louisville Athletic Club and a retreat center in Shepherdsville. You can give back by volunteering to serve as a peer mentor or an ambassador athlete or by coordinating events in Louisville or Shepherdsville.

Frazier Rehab Ironman Housing Fund

When Jason Dierking’s Ironman training colleague experienced a serious bike accident and struggled with the logistics of his treatment, he wanted to help. Dierking started the Frazier Rehab Ironman Housing Fund to ensure that other rehab patients could have a safe, comfortable, and convenient place to stay while completing their treatments.

You can contribute to the fund by making a donation or by launching an independent fundraiser. Athletes often run races or join competitions to raise funds for the Frazier Rehab Ironman Housing Fund.

Jill’s Wish Foundation

When Jill Conley was diagnosed with breast cancer at 31 years old, she experienced firsthand the monumental costs of treating the disease. Although she sadly passed away after a lengthy battle, her legacy lives on through her namesake, Jill’s Wish Foundation. The organization provides breast cancer patients with financial assistance as they undergo treatment so they can focus on their health instead of paying bills.

To support this cause, you can make a one-time donation or set up recurring donations to Jill’s Wish. Funds go toward granting wishes and organizing events in the Louisville area.

Kentuckiana Stroke Association

The Kentuckiana Stroke Association is on a mission to prevent strokes via increased awareness and enhanced education. To carry out its mission, the organization oversees several virtual and in-person support groups and hosts a variety of annual events in the Kentucky and Southern Indiana areas.

To get involved, you can participate in one of the association’s many signature events, such as Stroke of Luck, Heartstrings Dinner and Dance, and Strides for Stroke Walk. You can also make donations online or mail checks to support the organization’s efforts.

Kentucky Harvest

Kentucky Harvest aims to eliminate hunger in the Louisville area. To carry out its mission, Kentucky Harvest provides more than 2 million pounds of donated food to partner organizations every year. The organization also retrieves unwanted or unneeded food from restaurants and catering companies to address food insecurity.

You can help by donating food or funds. Make your donation online or fill out the online form to coordinate your donation. You can also volunteer by using your vehicle to transport food donations.

Kentucky Humane Society

The Kentucky Humane Society is an animal welfare organization that dates back to 1884. The organization has a veterinary clinic, a spay and neuter service, and dog and cat training. It also offers pet daycare, grooming, and boarding.

You have several options to support the Kentucky Human Society. You can help by participating in paid programs or by booking a spot in one of the organization’s training courses or pet resorts. You can make one-time or recurring donations, or you can make a special donation in honor of a loved one. If you’d rather volunteer time, contact the organization to learn more about its annual programs.

My Dog Eats First

Like the Kentucky Humane Society, My Dog Eats First also benefits animals. However, My Dog Eats First supports the pets of homeless and underserved community members. The organization uses its resources to provide pet food, supplies, and vaccinations every week. Through its Waggle Wednesday program, the organization distributes its donations to people and pets in need.

You can join by volunteering to pick up donations, portion out food and supplies, or hand out donations. Alternatively, you can donate money, food, or supplies to the organization.

Salaam Network

Founded in 2016, the Salaam Network strives to improve harmony and understanding in the diverse areas of Louisville and Southern Indiana. The organization hosts educational events and programs in community spaces throughout the Louisville area, including history seminars and programs on Islamic culture. To support this organization, you can make donations online.

Shirley’s Way

Like Jill’s Wish Foundation, Shirley’s Way also strives to support cancer patients financially. The association was founded in memory of Shirley, the organizers’ beloved mother who passed away due to cancer. Since 2013, the organization has granted over $300,000 to cover patients’ mortgages, utility bills, and medical costs.

It’s easy to contribute to Shirley’s Way. You can play the pull-tab machines at Shirley’s Way Gaming Room and give back while you game. You can also donate online to help support cancer patients throughout the Louisville area.

USA Cares

USA Cares is dedicated to alleviating the burden that many members of the military and their families experience. To that end, this organization offers financial help and advocacy for post-9/11 military members, veterans, and their families. Also known as Kentuckiana Cares, this organization focuses on those in need in the Louisville area.

You can help by making an online donation or hosting a fundraiser for military families. You can also pay to attend an event or volunteer your time at one of the organization’s many events throughout the year.

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