Stories That Matter

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.