Kentucky Cares

Stories That Matter

From small acts of kindness to lasting impact, discover the people and moments behind Kentucky Cares.

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Kentucky Cares

In Action

Our Story

Our Story

The heart behind Kentucky Cares and the vision that turned one act of generosity into something much bigger.

Kentucky Cares was founded on a simple yet powerful belief: that meaningful change begins with compassion, and that philanthropy should be woven into everyday life.

What began in 2021 as a small holiday toy drive — resulting in the collection of thousands of toys for children in need — quickly grew into something far more impactful. Inspired by a shared commitment to service, Jeremy and Maggie Delk invited friends and partners to join them in supporting local families, creating an overwhelming outpouring of generosity.

Building on that momentum, the initiative evolved in 2022, when Justin Peterson joined the effort, helping transform a single-day initiative into a broader and more structured fundraiser. Over the following years, the annual holiday initiative expanded significantly, uniting individuals, families, and businesses around a shared purpose.

By 2025, the event was raising more than $250,000 annually in support of organizations serving children and families across the community.

In 2026, Delk and Peterson partnered with Madison Carey, whose extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising strategy, and NIL partnerships introduced a new level of scale and vision. Together, they recognized an opportunity to build something enduring — a nonprofit organization designed to create year-round impact.

At its core, Kentucky Cares is a family-driven organization dedicated to supporting children, empowering women, and advancing animal welfare — led by the Delk, Peterson, and Carey families and rooted in the belief that generosity should be continuous, not seasonal.

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The Holiday Toy Drive

The Holiday Toy Drive

Where it all began — rallying community, collecting thousands of toys, and delivering joy to families in need.

What started as a simple idea — to bring families together through giving — quickly became one of the most impactful initiatives in our community.

Through our annual toy drives, we’ve partnered with local organizations, businesses, and families to create something far greater than a single event — a movement rooted in generosity. From packed rooms filled with donated toys to community-wide events bringing hundreds together, each year has built on the last.

Over $70,000 raised for local charities, with support from Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Nest, Step by Step, and Dream Factory.

What makes this initiative truly special isn’t just the outcome — it’s the experience. Families showing up together. Kids learning the importance of giving. A community coming together around something bigger than themselves. And each year, that impact continues to grow.

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Cards for a Cause

Cards for a Cause

A community-driven effort designed to turn connection, generosity, and shared purpose into meaningful impact.

Cards for a Cause was created to bring people together through a more intentional and elevated approach to giving. Hosted at The Vine in downtown Lexington, the evening was designed as a fully curated philanthropic experience — blending community, atmosphere, and purpose into one meaningful night.

Guests gathered for a thoughtfully designed four-course dinner, creating space for connection, conversation, and a shared sense of impact. The setting was intimate yet elevated, allowing every detail of the evening to feel purposeful. A private charity auction served as a defining moment — bringing energy, generosity, and purpose together in support of the cause.

Over $150,000 raised for local families and charities — including Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Nest, Step by Step, Dream Factory, and Hoop Dreams.

But what makes Cards for a Cause truly special isn’t just what it raises — it’s what it creates: connection, intention, and a space where giving feels personal again. And as this event continues to grow year after year, so does its impact.

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Partner Impact Stories

Partner Impact Stories

Stories of collaboration with local nonprofits and the lasting difference created when people come together.

Kentucky Cares works alongside local nonprofits and organizations to create meaningful, family-driven opportunities to give back. Each partnership brings something different — from direct community support to experiences that create lasting impact for families across Kentucky.

Step By Step
Step By Step
“They have consistently elevated the voices and dignity of the families we serve.
“With Kentucky being #4 in the nation for teen births, Step By Step, Inc. is deeply grateful for the partnership we have found in Kentucky Cares. Through their Cards for a Cause event, they have raised critical funds and awareness for the complex issues facing young single mothers ages 12 to 24 and their children. Their influence and connections expanded our network of patrons and advocates in ways we could not have anticipated. Our partnership continues to grow into something even greater — together, we are engaged in long-term initiatives with the potential to transform how our community addresses homelessness for its most vulnerable members. We are grateful Kentucky Cares exists, and we look forward to the impact we will build together.”

— Tanya Thorp, Step By Step, Inc.
Dream Factory
Dream Factory
“Without generous partners like you, we simply wouldn’t be able to turn dreams into reality.
“We are incredibly grateful to Kentucky Cares for their continued support of the Lexington Dream Factory. As an all-volunteer nonprofit, we simply wouldn’t be able to send our dreamers to Disney or create once-in-a-lifetime moments — like meeting their favorite basketball player — without generous partners like you. Thank you for helping us turn dreams into reality for children who need it most.”

— Jennifer Hurst, Lexington Dream Factory
The Nest
The Nest
“Reminding our families they are seen, valued, and cared for during some of their most challenging times.”
“Kentucky Cares has made a meaningful impact on the families we serve at The Nest. Through their Annual Cards for a Cause Charity Event, they help ensure that families facing adversity continue to receive critical services across all four of our programs at no cost. Their support of our Reindeer Express also brings joy and hope to children during the holiday season — reminding our families they are seen, valued, and cared for during some of their most challenging times.”

— JoEllen Wilhoite, The Nest
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