GO Chamber Q4 2017

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

FROM THE CHAMBER Welcome to the Fourth Quarter edition

business leaders are enriched with

of GO Chamber! This time of year we

opportunities to use their time, talent

pause to reflect on how thankful we are

and treasure to help those less fortunate

to live in a community that truly gives back and cares.

This edition focuses on an aspect

CANDANCE CASTLEN BRAKE President & CEO

of the community for which we are particularly thankful -- the work of non-profits and foundations in our chamber. We like to say that our chamber represents the fabric of Owensboro and that we serve all kinds of community organizations. Our nonprofits have found that their Chamber membership translates to their ability to connect with the business community and to build relationships with new friends and new champions.

WADE JENKINS Board Chair

and to truly make a difference where it is so desperately needed.

These pages are filled with story after story of people who wake up every morning to serve others. We are inspired. We hope you are too!

Thank you for the privilege of serving you in 2017!

Candance Castlen Brake, Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Wade Jenkins, 2017 Chamber Board Chair,

But they are not the only winners! Our

Market President, Old National Bank

ON THE COVER: Owensboro is a generous community. This photo represents the interconnectedness of philanthropy: When individuals and businesses donate to foundations, those foundations support non-profits, which strengthen our community.

The editing effect of this panoramic view of downtown Owensboro is known in the industry as a “tiny planet.” Multiple photos shot with a DJI Inspire 2 drone were combined into one panoramic image. Then using Photoshop, the image was distorted and then blended together to create “Planet Owensboro.”

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

PUBLISHER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jason Tanner jason@tannerwest.com

FEATURES:

4TH QUARTER 2017

MANAGING EDITOR

Danny May danny@tannerpublishing.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com

COPY EDITOR

Ashley Gleason

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COMMUNITY DENTAL CLINIC

8 18 26

THE CHAMBER REPORT

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2017 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR SPOTLIGHT

GRAPHIC DESIGN Jamie Alexander Jason Tanner Taylor West

LAYOUT DESIGN

DREAM RIDERS EXPERT ADVICE ON END-OF-YEAR GIVING Special Advertising Section

Boulware Mission Keller Williams, Kelly Anne Harris Team

Andrea Roberson

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FOUNDATIONS FOR PHILANTHROPIC GRANTS

PRINTING

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GIVE BACK DAY AT ST. JOSEPH PEACE MISSION

CONTACT INFORMATION:

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10 QUESTIONS

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THE FINAL ANALYSIS

PHOTOGRAPHERS Jamie Alexander David Grinnell Taylor West

BLESSINGS IN A BACKPACK

Greenwell Chisholm Owensboro, Kentucky Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce 200 E. 3rd St., Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-1860 chamber.owensboro.com

TANNER PUBLISHING CO.

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OWENSBORO SHELTERS

Rodney Berry

Jaclyn Graves

DID ?

YOU

KNOW

The Red Cross celebrates 100 years in Owensboro this year. Goodfellows turned 100 last year and Rotary Club turned 100 in 2015. But can you name an existing non-profit Chamber Member that opened its doors in 1877?

FIND OUT ON PAGE 49 7

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

THE CHAMBER REPORT

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION OF YOUR INTERNSHIP? Emily - I was excited to start something new and get more involved with my community.

MEET THE

CHAMBER INTERNS EMILY CASTLEN (L) Owensboro High School

MORGAN HILDEBRANT (R) Western Kentucky University

Morgan - The first day of my internship happened to also be the day before Rooster Booster, so I quickly came to realize just how busy the Chamber is. But they handle every situation and event with such class and professionalism.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT INTERNING FOR THE CHAMBER? Morgan - The people I have had the opportunity to meet.

Emily - The women we work with make it a fun and enthusiastic atmosphere.

Morgan - I agree. The ladies have been such a tremendous help; they have made every day a joy and a learning experience. I have

also enjoyed meeting and learning about Chamber members who make our city what it is.

WHAT HAS MOST SURPRISED YOU ABOUT THE CHAMBER? Emily - I was most surprised by how much hard work and dedication that had to be put into the Rooster Booster breakfast each month.

Morgan - I was most surprised by the amount of events, meetings, and projects that are led by the Chamber. The amount of work they do for not only their members but for the community is astounding and I wish more people could see firsthand all of the hard work they put in.

WHICH SIX WORDS BEST DESCRIBE THE CHAMBER? Morgan - insightful, diligent, engaged, considerable, ambitious, and ingenious Emily - diligent, creative, familiar, community, and stimulating

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR JENEAN HAMPTON VISITS OWENSBORO

Lt. Governor Jenean Hampton kicked off the 2018 Entrepreneurship Challenge in Owensboro with a stop at Daviess County High School. Earlier in the day, Hampton visited with local business leaders at Hollison. “Small business is the backbone of the American economy,” said Lt. Gov. Hampton. “It is critical for Kentucky students not only to learn about and experience entrepreneurship but also for them to see themselves as the next generation of small business owners.”

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EXECUTIVE ANSWERS

ON THE RECORD

Non-profits face numerous challenges. How do you maintain a positive attitude amidst budget crunches, staff shortages, and other struggles in the non-profit sector?

RICK SEARCY

ROSEMARY CONDER

SHELLY NICHOLS

I stay positive because what I do matters to the people I serve and to myself.

I believe constantly looking at our mission statement to advocate for the innocent child victims of abuse and neglect empowers and encourages us to stay positive and committed.

My passion for OASIS is immeasurable. It is this cause of eliminating violence that has been my life’s work.

VP OF COMMUNITY LIVING OPTIONS WENDELL FOSTER

I feel like working in the non-profit sector is such an amazing opportunity to be able to help people better their lives. No one ever said it would be easy, but God will always provide if you keep Him in the equation.

Money cuts, short staff, and other hurdles can be overcome by caring enough not to allow those things to stop you, but make you stronger.

Those challenges are frustrating but they also give you an opportunity to be creative and grow to better yourself, and in turn better the people you serve, as well as your community.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CASA OF OHIO VALLEY, INC.

I usually see the glass as half full, and try to keep a positive attitude in all life situations. Our community is generous and caring, especially with issues that affect our children.

I am inspired by so many wonderful, selfless people who give their time, talent and resources every day. Their actions keep me positive! I know we are making a positive impact on the children we serve. Our volunteers, Board Members, staff, donors, and supporters make my job enjoyable. And seeing the commitment of the social workers, foster parents, therapists, attorneys, judges and law enforcement, all working together for the best interest of the child makes the challenges of running a small, local non-profit an honor.

When we seek financial support we remind our grantors and donors of the importance and urgency of CASA. We encourage them to see their funding to us not only as a tax-deductible gift, but also as a critical investment in the future of our community.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OASIS, INC.

I believe that along with passion for the cause, dedication and focus are imperative.

Keeping a positive and driven team also helps with the day-to-day stressors. We strive to make this world a safer place, and all the while we are fighting for every dollar we get. There is so much sadness today that I look for the small victories to keep me strong and positive.

It’s the mother of three who gets her first job or the family that finally finds safe and affordable housing.

I always keep in mind that in this scary and sometimes crazy world, we live in a community that loves and supports its own.

That’s what keeps me going.

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THE CHAMBER REPORT

CHAMBER BEHIND THE SCENES:

PHOTOS BY DANNY MAY

LEGISLATIVE PRESENTATION CAPITOL ANNEX, FRANKFORT

Several Chamber members enjoyed a visit to the State Capitol in Frankfort on September 27, 2017, at Senator Joe Bowen’s request. Senator Bowen invited a representation of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s 40Under40 group to speak before the Joint Committee on Local Government.

gatherings and networking events attract new members and encourage involvement.

The contingency met at the Owensboro Sportscenter and traveled by chartered bus to the State Capitol annex building, where Senator Bowen introduced the group to the Joint Committee. As a media presentation played overhead, delegates from the group addressed the committee about the exciting things that are happening in the community of Owensboro.

Jason Tanner, Owner of Tanner+West & Tanner Publishing Co., commented on how Owensboro is becoming more welcoming and supportive of young business owners.

Agenda: Joe Berry, Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, spoke on the downtown redevelopment initiatives and how Owensboro’s downtown was intentionally planned as a place to attract talent.

Andrew Howard, Independence Bank Commercial Loan Officer, shared about the rebirth of Chamber Young Professionals.

Erica Yartz, Thacker Hodskins and Knight, represented the community service and philanthropy aspect of CYP. Dave Kirk, Owensboro Public Schools Public Information Officer, talked about how CYP social

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Jessica Kirk, Chamber Programs Manager, explained Leadership Owensboro, regional alliances, and other community partnerships.

Martha Maradiaga-Stone, Ph.D., Hollison Food Safety Manager, Hollison, offered comments on how the innovation sector is helping recruit talent in Greater Owensboro.

Bart Darrell, Kentucky Wesleyan College President, talked about four-year colleges and their role in talent recruitment and development.

Board Chair Wade Jenkins, Old National Bank President, briefly discussed the role of the Chamber board in fostering talent and leadership.

Candance Castlen Brake, Chamber CEO and President, offered the introduction and closing remarks.

Following the presentation, Senator Bowen invited the group to speak further in his office, joined by Representatives D.J. Johnson and Robby Mills.

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS Angela Clark, Tony Clark Realtors Vector Engineers, Inc Elevator Solutions, Inc. Balance Health + Body Center For Cosmetic and General Dentistry Horn & France Insurance Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey Vid Monster Productions, LLC Centre Court -- ODCTA Yazatel Elevation Painting Tally’s Towing & Service Kentucky Farm Bureau Daviess County North Commonwealth Concrete Coatings, LLC ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Consumer Mall Meagan Aull, DMD, PLLC Longhorn Steakhouse Donatos Pizza Budget Blinds of Owensboro New Life Thrift McDonald’s People Plus, Inc. Ely Wireless LLC, T-Mobile Merry Maids of Owensboro Say It Southern Monograms & More 11

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

THE CHAMBER REPORT

SELECTED WORKS (ON DUTIES, ON OLD AGE, SECOND PHILLIPPIC)

AUTHOR: MARCUS TULLIUS CICERO (106 BCE – 43 BCE)

Overview: Written during a time of brutal political change, Cicero’s writings formed the foundation of the Western tradition and a cornerstone of a liberal arts education. At the core of his work, he instructs as to how leaders should handle situations when doing what is morally right and doing what is advantageous clash.

THE

READING LIST

Reviewed By: Dr. Nicholas Brake, Ph.D. Superintendent Owensboro Public Schools

The Takeaway: I teach the classical Greek and Roman history for WKU Owensboro as a way to stay connected to teaching and to think outside of the rigors of my day job as superintendent. As a result, I spend a lot of time reading these classics.

Cicero was a great statesman and an eloquent orator during a very volatile time in the history of the Roman Republic. His writing is especially poignant today in a time of such political polarization by showing us how to disagree and why it is important to fight for political rights that he saw being stripped away at the hands of a tyrannical leader.

H A N D - P I C K E D What is the first non-profit board you served on?

UNITED WAY & JUNIOR LEAGUE (THEN KNOWN AS THE JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE) - Suzie Tyler DIRECTOR, WESTERN KENTUCKY

GREEN RIVER DISTRICT HEALTH DEPARTMENT’S CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD ON NUTRITION - Carl Greenwell PRESIDENT, GREENWELL CHISHOLM

BOTANICAL GARDEN

CLIFF HAGAN BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB BOARD - Shelly Nichols

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KIWANIS CLUB OF OWENSBORO - Kevin Gibson VICE PRESIDENT/BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, SOUTH

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, OASIS, INC.

CENTRAL BANK, INC.

LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO BOARD

AMERICAN GOLD STAR MOTHERS, INC.

- Dr. Nick Brake

- Cathy Mullins

SUPERINTENDENT, OWENSBORO

PRESIDENT, BRANDON SCOTT

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MULLINS MEMORIAL FOUNDATION

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

THE DANIEL PITINO SHELTER

- Sarah Murphy Ford VICE PRESIDENT, HARTZ CONTRACTING, LLC

HOSPICE OF WESTERN KENTUCKY - Mark Martin

VP RATES AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS, ATMOS ENERGY CORPORATION

THEATRE WORKSHOP OF OWENSBORO - Cindy Fiorella

VICE PRESIDENT OF WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS, OWENSBORO COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE

OWENSBORO CITIZENS COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

- Malcolm Bryant

PRESIDENT, THE MALCOLM BRYANT CORPORATION

OWENSBORO FAMILY YMCA - Andrew Howard

COMMERCIAL LOAN OFFICER, INDEPENDENCE BANK

AMERICAN ORTHOTIC AND PROSTHETIC ASSOCIATION - Mayor Tom Watson

CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

MARCH OF DIMES

CO-OWNER, DAHL & GROEZINGER, INC.

SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, REPUBLIC BANK

- Drew Kirkland

- Robert Whitaker

PHOTOS BY JESSICA KIRK

TEACHERS IN THE WORKPLACE: SEPTEMBER 13, 2017 KIMBERLY CLARK CORP. / METALSA

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT - Kirk Kirkpatrick BOARD MEMBER, FRIDAY AFTER 5

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF OWENSBORO - Jennifer Keller REGIONAL SALES COORDINATOR, AFLAC KENTUCKY

DAVIESS COUNTY EXTENSION BOARD - Joan Hayden

HAYDEN ELECTRIC & HAYDEN

- Darrell Higginbotham

- Wade Jenkins MARKET PRESIDENT, OLD NATIONAL BANK

FARMS

THE WENDELL FOSTER CENTER. AFTER THAT, THEATER WORKSHOP OF OWENSBORO - Roxi Witt

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,

SPRINGFIELD-WASHINGTON COUNTY (KY) CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

LIONS CLUB

ELIZABETH MUNDY SENIOR CENTER BOARD - Jack Wells

OWNER, WELLS HEALTH SYSTEMS; CEO, CANTEEN

RIVERPARK CENTER

UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE ALUMNI BOARD

PRESIDENT, INDEPENDENCE

- Jim Gilles

BANK

HILL VIEW FARMS

HOUSTON YOUNG LAWYERS ASSOCIATION - Mark S. Snell

PRESIDENT & CEO, GREATER OWENSBORO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

REQUIREMENTS FOR BECOMING A LYFT DRIVER: • You must be at least 21 and own an iPhone or Android phone • Possess an in-state driver’s license that’s at least a year old • Undergo a DMV check, plus a national and county background check.

• Your car needs to have four external door handles and at least five total seat belts.

• You must be a covered party on your car’s in-state insurance, and have in-state license plates.

Chamber Young Professionals is hosting an informational session on the process of becoming a Lyft driver Saturday, December 9, 2017, at 10am at the O.Z. Tyler Distillery.

The session is open to everyone.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

THE CHAMBER REPORT

LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO RETREAT

PHOTOS BY DAVE KIRK

SEPTEMBER 28-29, 2017

THE BIG PICTURE

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Habitat for Humanity just completed its 131st house in Owensboro/Daviess County thanks to the ongoing support of many local businesses and volunteers who contribute in-kind donations and man hours to the organization.

But you don’t have to be on-site to help with construction!

H E R E I S W H AT Y O U R B U S I N E S S O R P E R S O N A L C O N T R I B U T I O N C A N P U R C H A S E T O W A R D A H A B I TAT H O U S E :

$50,000 $25,000

$5,000

Entire House

Half House

Site Sponsorship

$1,000

$500

$130

$100

$75

Roof Trusses

Toilet

Paint

Sink

Window

$50

Bucket of Nails

TO MAKE A DONATION OR PLEDGE, PLEASE MAIL CHECKS TO HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF OWENSBORO/DAVIESS COUNTY AT 1702 MOSELEY STREET, OWENSBORO, KY 42303.

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BY THE NUMBERS

PHILANTHROPY CONTRIBUTIONS OWENSBORO HEALTH

JUNIOR LEAGUE

$696,866

has been volunteering and contributing financially to Greater Owensboro for

C O M M U N I T Y H E A LT H INVESTMENT GRANTS

grant allocation for 2018 to

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organizations covering

OF OWENSBORO

40 years

(Formerly called “Cotillion Club” from 1937-1974)

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community initiatives, which will impact

516,899 lives.

OWENSBORO NATIONAL BANK’S

100 MEN WHO COOK

INDEPENDENCE BANK

has sponsored or participated in over

175 events

to help different organizations in 2017 (so far).

F U N D R A I S I N G T O TA L S :

PAY IT FORWARD APPS Looking for a fun way to donate? Check out these seven apps or sites for an interesting take on giving.

COMMONKINDNESS.COM Choose a nonprofit. Print and redeem coupons. CommonKindness then contributes the savings to your chosen nonprofit.

CATCHAFIRE.COM Catchafire matches skilled professional volunteers with nonprofits to help them increase their capacity and achieve their missions. Find a project or post a project.

WAKE OR DONATE APP

2015: $81,000

GOODFELLOWS CLUB

2016: $82,000

has been serving children since 1916. This is the 102nd year.

Now serving between

2017: $116,000

1,500-2,000 children each year.

A charitable alarm clock app that makes iPhone users donate to charity if they press snooze.

FREERICE.COM An online trivia game that donates 10 grains of rice to the World Food Program for each correct answer.

Total: $279,000

VISOGIVE

IMPACT 100 GRANTS

YouTube’s nonprofit channel. Find out about charities that are making a difference and show that you care by subscribing and sharing.

Total amount of IMPACT 100 grants to Greater Owensboro non-profits to date:

$2.582 million

AID THE HOMELESS has raised

$278,370.94 over the past 6 years, providing funding for

7 shelters

GIVELIFY This mobile app helps you donate to charity or tithe to your church in three taps. (Also allows nonprofits to receive donations.)

VOLUNTEEROWENSBORO.COM

UNITED WAY OF THE OHIO VALLEY

$1,142,534 in Daviess County agencies, including 9 educational initiatives that served 4,916 children and youth; 4 financial stability & emergency services initiatives that served 11,020 people; and 9 health initiatives that offered services to 3,076 people. invested

To make a difference locally, visit VolunteerOwensboro.com. The site has a comprehensive listing of local shelters, agencies, and facilities for those who want to volunteer or donate.

GREATNONPROFITS.ORG Serves as a database of 1.8 million nonprofits and charities for donors, volunteers, and funders. Searchable by name and city.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

THE CHAMBER REPORT

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS KEEFORCE WELCOMES JAMES BOYT KeeFORCE, the outsourced IT Department for over 125 companies in the region, announced that James Boyt has joined their team as a Senior Support Specialist.

Located in the Owensboro office, Boyt will be responsible for providing clients with daily support for a wide variety of technology solutions offered by KeeFORCE. Boyt comes to KeeFORCE from Alphateck Solutions, where he served the past 12 years as a System Administrator. He is a highly decorated IT professional with certifications from Microsoft, CompTIA and HP. Boyt comments, “I am excited to join the incredibly experienced and dedicated team of professionals at KeeFORCE. I’m looking forward to working for a dynamic company that offers an opportunity to contribute and grow. With my experience and qualifications, I am able to hit the ground running.”

MATT HAYDEN/JACK WELLS ANNOUNCE THE SHOPPES AT 3800 FREDERICA The Shoppes at 3800 Frederica, LLC is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Purchase Agreement with the City of Owensboro Public School System to acquire the former Texas Gas building at 3800 South Frederica, as well as the surrounding acreage and buildings.

The Shoppes intend to create a mixeduse development, with a combination of retail, office and potentially residential components, which will revitalize the main Frederica Street corridor inside of the Wendell Ford Expressway. The Shoppes will immediately begin its due diligence and analysis of the existing structures to determine what can be rehabilitated to new uses. The Shoppes is owned by Matthew Hayden and Jack T. Wells, who are in the process of completing another rehabilitation project involving the former BB&T Bank building at 234 Frederica Street, which houses an Alorica, Inc. call center and Bar

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Louie, which opened this fall.

SEARCY & POOLE NAMED WENDELL FOSTER VICE PRESIDENTS Wendell Foster has announced the appointment of Rick Searcy as its Vice President for Community Living Options. He assumed the position in early October.

Searcy was previously the Executive Director of the H.L. Neblett Community Center, a position he held since 2013.

Prior to coming to Neblett in 2012 as its After School Coordinator, Searcy worked in services for disadvantaged and disabled youth at the Job Corps and at the Owensboro Treatment Center, as well as serving as Offensive Coordinator for the Kentucky Wesleyan College football team.

Searcy is a graduate of Kentucky Wesleyan College and Ft. Campbell High School. He has served on several local volunteer boards and is currently serving on the Owensboro Housing Authority Commission board, the RiverPark Center board , as Past President of the United Way agency directors group and also serves as a Greater Owensboro Mentorship Network adviser. In addition, Searcy was recently selected by the Chamber of Commerce as one of Owensboro’s “40Under40” group of young community leaders.

In his new position, Searcy will be overseeing Wendell Foster operations in several community and residential services areas including case management, adult day programming, supported employment and Medicaid Waiver funded individualized community and in-home supports for individuals with developmental disabilities.

In addition, he will be overseeing Wendell Foster community residential programs including supported living homes, adult foster care and several independent living homes.

Sarah Poole was named Vice President for Intermediate Care Facility services, effective

November 1. Poole will be responsible for the management of Wendell Foster’s longterm care facility that provides residential and active treatment services to 63 individuals who have severe developmental disabilities. Poole replaces Bob Tarrants who has held the position since 2002 and who is leaving Wendell Foster at the end of October for a position elsewhere.

Poole has held several prior positions at Wendell Foster since she went to work there in 2006 doing direct support work with clients. From that experience, she progressed to positions as an Assistant Program Director, Education and Training Supervisor, Interim Program Director, Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional, Director of Scheduling and Employee Development Specialist. During that time, Poole has also worked as a middle and high school soccer coach. A graduate of Owensboro High School, Poole holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with an emphasis in special education as well as a master’s degree in teacher leadership, both from Brescia University.

OPS WINS NATIONAL INNOVATION AWARD The Successful Practices Network (SPN) and The School Superintendent’s Association (AASA) have selected Owensboro Public Schools as one of 25 national models of Innovative Practices. As a selected model, the SPN will collaborate with OPS to learn more about its work and highlight lessons OPS has learned to share with school and district leaders around the United States.

The site visit is scheduled for November.

MARSHALL VENTURES MAKES FIRST LOCAL INVESTMENT IN GRYPHON ENVIRONMENTAL Marshall Ventures announced a $200,000 investment in Owensboro-based Gryphon Environmental. This is Marshall Ventures’ first investment in an Owensboro-based company.

Gryphon Environmental supplies large-scale drying products used to reduce suspensions

in the municipal, industrial, agricultural and food and beverage industries. Gryphon has made it possible to use mass transfer and heat transfer to remove water from a suspension. The result is efficient and low-cost drying technology that makes it more affordable to dry biomass, biosolids, sludge, rendering byproducts and proteins. Gryphon dryers provide the most advanced drying solutions available and are able to easily scale and rapidly produce due to their repeatable, sectional designs.

Fund Manager, John Marshall Moore, said, “We feel fortunate to have this opportunity to invest in an Owensboro-based company with such great prospects. Tid and his team have developed a product that puts Gryphon in a position to be the market leader. We expect this investment to not only be a great asset for our investors, but also our community.”

LATANZIO NAMED CIT OFFICER OF THE YEAR The Owensboro Police Department is pleased to note that Officer Rick Latanzio, an 18-year veteran of the department, was recognized as CIT Officer of the Year for his efforts stemming from a 2017 call for service involving a distraught female.

Officer Latanzio responded to the downtown area after hearing that a suicidal female was standing on the ledge of a multi-story building on E. 2nd Street. After nearly 30 minutes of contact with the female, Officer Latanzio was able to gain her trust and talked her to safety.

The next time you meet an OPD officer, look for the wings pinned to their uniform. It’s a symbol used by CIT to show that the officer is ready to help.

METALSA’S $36.5 MILLION EXPANSION ADDING 113 JOBS IN OWENSBORO Automotive frame manufacturer Metalsa Structural Products Inc. will add 113 jobs at its Owensboro facility with a $36.5 million expansion to produce a new line of stamped and welded components.

“We are grateful for this additional expansion and these new jobs. This will strengthen Kentucky’s economy and further propel us toward our goal of being the American center of engineering and manufacturing excellence,” Gov. Bevin said. “We welcome this growth and congratulate both Metalsa and the Owensboro community on their success.”

The $36.5 million will include investment in robotic welding cells, assembly line robots, infrastructure and building expansions to increase the facility’s square footage to accommodate the new production line and additional warehouse space. The expansion began this summer and hiring is for September 2018 through June 2019. Company leaders expect production to begin in March 2019.

MAJOR J.D. MARKSBERRY NAMED DEPUTY OF THE YEAR Recently retired Major J.D. Marksberry, of the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, was honored as Deputy of the Year at the Kentucky Sheriff’s Association Conference on September 14, 2017.

Marksberry began his career at the sheriff’s office in 1990 as a patrol deputy. His work ethic and diligence carried with him throughout his 27-year career. He held every ranking position within the sheriff’s office and performed every duty the office had to offer. His accomplishments and professionalism over the last 27 years have helped in making the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office a success.

Prior to his law enforcement career, J.D. earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky and then followed his love of aviation by obtaining his pilot license. J.D. worked for several years as a pilot before applying with the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy. He began his career with the sheriff’s office in 1990 and has been an exceptional employee and representative of law enforcement since.

While serving the citizens of Daviess County, J.D. has received a file full of letters of gratitude and accolades for his service.

J.D. has always treated

everyone with great respect and has gone out of his way to accommodate citizen need.

OWENSBORO NAMED #11 TOP CITY FOR MILLENNIAL HOME BUYERS The City of Owensboro has been named one of the top cities for Millennial home buyers according to a USA Today article published on October 8th. The study, conducted by Ellie Mae, used a ‘Millennial Tracker’ to record cities that have a high mortgage close percentage for people ages 25-34. According to the article, older Millennials make up 30% of existing homebuyers making it a very important demographic in the real estate market.

Owensboro came in as number 11 on the list citing proximity to several large cities and a reinvented downtown as some of the reasons Millennials are planting roots.

UNIFIRST OPENS ON-SITE HEALTH CLINIC IN OWENSBORO DISTRIBUTION CENTER UniFirst opened its new UniFirst Health and Wellness Center located within its corporate distribution center in Owensboro, KY. This new medical facility offers free on-site health care and wellness coaching for its employee Team Partners. The clinic is part of a comprehensive initiative to increase employee focus on prevention and wellness.

A partnership between UniFirst and local health provider Owensboro Health will provide primary, preventive, and urgent medical services with no co-pays or deductibles to Owensboro employee Team Partners who are enrolled in the UniFirst company health plan, Monday through Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (CST).

“The opening of this clinic demonstrates UniFirst’s ongoing commitment to helping our employee Team Partners maintain overall wellness and a healthy lifestyle,” says UniFirst general manager, David Roberts. “We’re thrilled to extend our comprehensive benefit offerings to now include on-site medical care that helps our Team Partners offset medical costs while providing a convenient way to access health care.”

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

DREAM RIDERS

Photos & article by Melody Ann Wallace

“WHILE THE MISSION OF DREAM RIDERS IS TO ‘PROVIDE EQUINEASSISTED THERAPY TO ADULTS AND CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS’…

THE PRIMARY THERAPY IS JOY, A SPIRIT OF HAPPINESS.”

adaptive equipment, others learn how to follow directions and

– Dream Riders co-founder, Mike Clark

they can say,) ‘When I’m at school, I have to look up to people, and

build confidence through grooming and horse therapy. Clark says, “We take kids out of wheelchairs and put them on a big horse (so they look down to me. When I’m on my horse, everyone has to look

Dream Riders is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that began almost 15 years ago with two rubber bands, a pad of paper, and two parents that longed to share their love of horses with their precious young daughters. When most people hear the name Dream Riders, they think of young children with disabilities riding on horses.

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up to me.’”

As a retired teacher and principal for the Daviess County and Catholic School systems, and current DCPS school board president, Mike Clark has been cultivating his love of children over the last 50 years. Suzy Higdon, now a retired DCPS speech pathologist, has

While that is a huge part of their mission, co-founder, Mike Clark,

also devoted her life to young children. Not only have the two spent

says they are actually “in the business of servicing handicapped

their lives educating and inspiring young minds, they also each have

people from three years of age up to ninety-five years of age.”

a daughter with unique needs and a love for horses. That is what

Working with individuals with disabilities is just a small portion of

prompted Mike to call Suzy, and 14 others, in February of 2003 to

what they do for our community. In addition to serving 60 weekly

share this venture. Mike recalls that, out of the 15people he invited

clients on a regular basis, they assist the Cliff Hagan Boys and Girls

to his home that night, 12 showed up, four of which are still with the

Club, offer wagon rides around the property for nursing home

program today. In June 2003, they were able to organize their first

residents, and host a Hospice Camp in the spring to provide horse

ride, despite not having the money, horse trailers, or appropriate

therapy to grieving children and family members.

horses necessary.

Although the age range and ability level of Dream Riders’ clients

In the months and years that followed, Dream Riders would

are incredibly diverse, the heart of who they are is bringing joy and

begin to take shape as a confidence-building environment for a

empowerment to children who have spent their lives in a limited

variety of differently-abled individuals in our community. The

capacity. While some clients work on strength and balance using

first step needed in that process was for the instructors to attend

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

<< MIKE CLARK (L) AND SUZY HIGDON (R) IN THE STABLE AT DREAM RIDERS OF KENTUCKY.

training in Equine-Assisted Therapy in Tennessee. The next was to eventually replace the horses they had borrowed from Cowboys of Kentucky with their own donated horses that met the necessary size and temperament requirements over a 60-day trial period.

However, the biggest challenge by far was finding the right space to house their project. Dream Riders has had several temporary homes, but their dream has always been to own their own building.

In 2014, after renting several properties, their dream finally became a reality with the acquisition of the $250,000 facility situated on the Daviess County Fairgrounds in Philpot. This would never have been possible without generous donations from the community and the sweat equity of their compassionate volunteers.

Dream Riders has always been able to make the most of what they have by doing as much of the building and grounds maintenance as they can themselves, and being incredibly frugal with the generous donations they receive. With horses that need to be fed and cared for 365 days a year, that can sometimes present a challenge, so Mike and Suzy do not draw salaries, and only pay three part-time employees, including the executive director. Suzy says it is the volunteers and donations from individuals and businesses that keep them going. “We are fortunate to live in Owensboro…they have been very generous, and we are grateful.”

HOW YOU CAN HELP Volunteers are an invaluable part of Dream Riders and drive everything they do. If you are over 14 years of age, have a heart for children, horses, or a servant’s heart in general, Dream Riders would love to have your help. While the work is incredibly rewarding, it is not for the faint of heart.

Volunteers need to be physically able to walk with horses, shovel manure, and stand for longer periods of time. Suzy Higdon says, “While the work may be physically demanding, it is great exercise.”

The current program is coming to a close, but training will be offered again in March for those who are interested.

Dream Riders is also in need of financial donations to cover horse care and property maintenance. They are also seeking individuals or businesses willing to finance or sponsor a roof for their outdoor arena. While the current arena provides clients with a beautiful, open riding area, it is not suitable for use during extreme heat or rain. The necessary materials and labor for this project would cost an estimated $50,000. Donations of any denomination would be welcome.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

BY NICK HARDESTY • PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

W

hat do you think of when you hear the word “ministry”? You probably think of teaching children, leading people in prayer, feeding the poor, or preaching the gospel. You probably don’t think about rooting around inside someone’s mouth! But, that’s what Dr. Brandon Taylor does for a living, and it is for him, in every way, a ministry.

“My wife Kim coined the phrase, ‘Dentistry is our ministry,’“ Dr. Taylor said. “It may sound a little corny, but I do believe that we all have something to do, we all have a ministry that is waiting for us, some way that we can contribute and make a difference.”

For Dr. Taylor, Dr. Jeff Gilbert, and the rest of the staff at the Community Dental Clinic in Owensboro, their way of making a difference is by providing for the dental needs of under served populations in the region. This includes low-income families on Medicaid or those who do not have dental insurance.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

Why this population? For Dr. Taylor, it’s a matter of giving back. As a child, he grew up very poor. When he was 5, his mother, escaping an abusive relationship, moved with him into an abandoned trailer in Ohio County: no electricity, no running water, grass as tall as he was. She worked odd jobs, trying to raise him as best she could and turn that humble place into a home. But, she needed help, as any single mother would.

Fortunately, all along the path to where Dr. Taylor is today, there were important people who cared enough to invest in him and give him the personal attention he needed. “We had my grandmother, some extended family and friends, and even strangers and people I’ll never know who poured into us and pitched in and helped us out,” he remembered.

When it was time to graduate high school, these seen and unseen helpers were there, ensuring he received the scholarships that provided a full-ride to Kentucky Wesleyan

College. When he was in college, they were there, encouraging him to pursue dental school.

Despite his impoverished background, they were there, working to see him succeed.

Dr. Taylor has seen first-hand the influence a kind person can have in the life of another.

With his work at the Community Dental Clinic, he can be that person. For Dr. Taylor, it’s a role that’s easy for him, because he sees himself in the people he serves. He knows what it’s like to be needy. As far as he’s concerned, even today, as successful as he is, the people he serves are not so unlike him. Dr. Taylor explains, at length: “I often see myself in a lot of the children that we treat. The struggles that my parents went through—I see that in a lot of the adults that we treat. [. . .] One thing I’ve realized is that we’re all a whole lot closer to the circumstances of my patients than we think.

Financial hardship can come up out of nowhere. Addiction, even in the suburbs, by people who are from what we would consider ‘good families’ is a major problem nationwide.

We’re not all that different.”

His empathy for them also explains why the Community Dental Clinic does not take patients with private insurance. “While it would be much easier for us to be a nonMedicaid practice and receive only private insurance,” Dr. Taylor admitted, “we don’t want to limit the number of Medicaid patients we can see. There are 100,000 people receiving Medicaid services in our region alone. As long as the grants are still helping us out, we’re going to stay committed to only seeing patients who don’t have private insurance.”

And at any rate, the reward is not in the Medicaid reimbursements, but in the joy of his patients. “It’s amazing when someone is so thankful you removed this awfully painful tooth, and they are just thanking you,” he said, struggling to find the words to describe it. “Most people don’t enjoy going to the dentist,” he went on to explain, “but for the patients we see, they are so thankful that it’s over with, that the pain is gone and they can be healthier.”

On July 5, 2017, the Community Dental Clinic moved to a new location, at 2811 New Hartford Rd, Suite A, right across from Owensboro Christian Church. At 3,000 square feet, it’s three times larger than their former office in Mayfair Square. It has eight “offertories” (or rooms with a dental chair where a patient can be treated), which means they can treat more people, provide more services, and hopefully bring more joy to people’s lives.

Of course, large office spaces don’t come cheap. A capital campaign is underway, with the hopes of raising enough funds to pay off their loan in five years. “We already have a commitment from the Hager Foundation for $125,000 toward our capital campaign – which is unbelievable; it’s tremendous,” Dr. Taylor reported. “We’re trying to raise just under $400,000, so to raise that money as quickly as possible, that would just be one less worry we have.”

The large donations are fabulous, but he also knows that the clinic won’t reach its goal without the help of everyone in the community. “Speak to your local representatives, advocate for the good work we’re doing, encourage people they know that have needs that maybe we could help with, encourage them to seek us out. All contributions big and small are always appreciated.”

“This has always been a grassroots effort,” he went on to explain. “The overwhelming majority of the grants and donations we receive have been local. It’s really Owensboro’s community support that makes it possible.”

Dr. Brandon Taylor (L) and Dr. Jeff Gilbert (R) in the clinic’s waiting room.

(L-R) Angela Hall, Dental Assistant; Lori Smith, Dental Hygienist; Shelby Jones, Dental Assistant; and Jameika Johnson, Dental Assistant.

TO PLAY YOUR PART IN THE MINISTRY OF DENTISTRY, YOU CAN CALL THE COMMUNITY DENTAL CLINIC AT (270) 691-6205 OR VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT WWW.OWENSBORODENTALCLINIC.COM.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

Jennifer Keller (Chamber Young Professionals) and Krystal Morgan (Independence Bank) unload supplies for food bags for the Backpack Program.

BLESSINGS IN A

BACKPACK

BY ASHLEY SORCE

. PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

I

t’s hard to imagine that children in our community leave their schools on Friday and may not eat again until Monday when they return. But that is exactly what a lot of young Owensboro and Daviess County students are facing.

To combat this growing problem, Cindy Morgan, VP Loan Documentation Manager at Independence Bank, started the Backpack Program in January 2014.

“Independence Bank strives to give back to the community and find something you are passionate about and that is where my group took on the Backpack Program as our project,” Cindy said.

The Backpack Program sends food home with students every weekend. Each backpack includes 10 non-perishable items: •

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

2 packages of Ramen Noodles

• • • • • • •

Pop-tart Cookie or oatmeal pie Granola bar 2 packages of 6-count cheese crackers Pudding cup Can of soup, ravioli, or SpaghettiOs Cereal bar or Nutri-Grain bar

In late 2015, almost two years into the already successful program, Independence Bank President and CEO, Darrell Higginbotham, who at the time was the Chair of the Chamber of Commerce Board, brought Cindy and her team together with the Chamber Young Professionals (CYP).

To this point, Independence Bank had been solely running the program, from logistics to funding. A partnership with CYP meant adding more children to the program, assistance with stuffing bags and delivery, but most importantly, additional funding.

Jennifer Keller, Regional Sales Coordinator for Aflac Keller Associates, serves as the CYP Chair for the Backpack Program. Jennifer says that the Backpack Program is currently serving 395 children in 14 schools.

This is a significant jump from the 289 children served in the 2016-2017 school year.

Children are identified by each school’s resource director, who handles the needs assessment for their population and makes contact with the Backpack Program.

“The school systems are great with knowing their children and, by way of relationship with the children, can identify the (students) in need,” Jennifer said.

Jennifer encourages businesses and individuals to sponsor a child for a year by making a monetary donation. The public can even help by adopting a child

Jon Bailes (Pastor, New Life Church), Krystal Morgan (Independence Bank), Todd Camp (Pastor, New Life Church), Jennifer Keller (Chamber Young Professionals)

New Life Volunteers

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

BY THE NUMBERS

for $75, which will feed them for the year.

“Last year we were very blessed with the overwhelming support of the business community and local people donating directly,” Jennifer said. “We are currently in renewal season and need our business donors to renew and support again for the next year. We also received a $10,000 grant last year from the Junior League of Owensboro, which afforded us to assist more children and add more nutritious items to the backpacks.”

In addition to food donations, the Backpack Program has begun giving each child a Christmas present. They are currently in the middle of a blanket drive as the weather begins to turn cold.

According to Jennifer, the importance of the program to this community is obvious. “The unfortunate truth is that too many of our children are going hungry and need help,” Jennifer said. “It’s a simple fact that a child’s chance for a bright tomorrow starts with getting enough healthy food to eat today.”

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

399 549 bags filled each Thursday

students participating in program

$4,000 raised at June 24 Cruise-In fundraiser

75

$

to adopt one student for the school year

11,008

bags filled for 2017-8 school year

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

END-OF-YEAR GIVING

EXPERT ADVICE ON

EDWARD JONES

TAKE AC TION THIS HOLIDAY SEASON...AND BEYOND

Now that we are in the heart of the holiday season, you may be thinking about ways you can put your money where your heart is. By showing your generosity throughout the holiday season, you can benefit charitable organizations and your loved ones – and your gifts can even provide you with some potential financial advantages.

So, what sort of gifts should you consider? Here are a couple of suggestions for the charitable organizations you support: Give cash. Any charitable group will welcome cash contributions. And if the charity has 501(c)(3) status (named after the section of the Internal Revenue Code that governs such groups), your gift can offer you a tax deduction. So, for example, if you are in the 25 percent tax bracket and you give $1,000 to a qualified charity, you will be able to deduct $250 from your taxes. (You will need to itemize deductions to gain this tax benefit.) Generally speaking, your maximum deduction is limited to 50 percent of your adjusted gross income.

You might be able expand the reach of your cash gifts through your workplace.

Some companies will match some of your contributions to charitable organizations. Also, your employer may allow you to apply for larger grants to support nonprofit groups, especially those in which many employees are actively involved.

KEVIN J YOUNG

Donate appreciated stocks. If you have stocks that have grown significantly in value, you may want to donate them to a charitable group. You will be allowed a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the gift on the date of the transfer, even if your original cost was only a fraction of today’s value.

Furthermore, you will avoid the capital gains taxes you’d have to pay if you sold the stock, provided you’ve held the stock for at least a year.

F I N A N C I A L A DV I S O R

You don’t have to restrict your giving to charitable groups. If you have children or grandchildren, you might want to provide them with the gift of higher education by contributing to a 529 college savings plan.

A 529 plan offers several benefits. Contribution limits vary from state to state, but are generally quite high – you can accumulate more than $200,000 per beneficiary in many state plans, although special gifting provisions may apply.

And you can typically invest in the 529 plan offered by any state, even if you don’t live there, although you might not receive the tax benefits – such as deductions or tax credits – you’d get if you invested in your own state’s plan.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation. Member SIPC.

Also, all withdrawals from 529 plans are free from federal income taxes, and possibly from state income taxes, as long as the money is used for a qualified college or graduate expense of the beneficiary you’ve named – typically, your child or grandchild. (Withdrawals for expenses other than qualified education expenditures may be subject to federal, state and penalty taxes.) Be aware, though, that 529 plans may affect financial aid, particularly if you’ve set up a plan for your grandchild, so you might want to consult with a college’s financial aid office before the child heads off to school.

Through your gifts to charitable groups and your family members, you can take the spirit of Giving Day and extend it throughout the holiday season – and even beyond.

1605 Scherm Rd Suite 2 // Owensboro, KY 42301 // 270-926-9516 // www.edwardjones.com

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KENTUCKY WESLEYAN COLLEGE G IVING SEASON IS UPON US!

One of the most important times of the year for non-profit entities is the end of the calendar year.

According to the Association of Fundraising Professionals, nearly half of charitable gifts occur during the last three months of the year, and 40 percent of online gifts occur in December. By making a year-end gift, individuals and businesses can not only feel good about helping others, but also enjoy additional tax advantages created through charitable contributions.

At Kentucky Wesleyan, we are fortunate to have a large group of alumni and friends who support the College generously on an annual basis. Since 2014, enrollment is up 10.5 percent and over $12 million has been raised to benefit our General Scholarship Fund and other institutional programming.

Here are three ways to maximize your year-end giving: 1. Did you know 98 percent of Wesleyan students receive financial aid directly from our General Scholarship Fund? Consider an online gift at kwc.edu/give or contact us at (270) 852-3142. Gifts sent by mail must be postmarked by 12/31/17 to receive 2017 tax credit: Office of Advancement, Kentucky Wesleyan College, 3000 Frederica St., Owensboro, KY 42301 2. If you are age 70 ½ or older, the IRS requires you to take a minimum distribution from your IRA. Consider designating these funds to your favorite charity via a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to avoid paying taxes on the income.

3. Consider a gift of appreciated stock, rather than cash, and save on capital gains taxes.

For more information, contact our Office of Advancement at (270) 852-3142.

If you’re a Wesleyan alumnus, join us on campus for complimentary food, drinks and holiday spirit at our annual Christmas Open House at the President’s Home on Friday, Dec. 8, from 4:30-6:30 p.m.

We hope to see you there!

TOM KEITH VP F OR A DVA NC E M E NT

3000 Frederica Street Owensboro, KY 42301 800-999-0592 www.kwc.edu

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

FILLING THE PIPELINE

WORK READY KENTUCKY SCHOLARSHIP By: Dr. Scott Williams, President, Owensboro Community & Technical College Business leaders are acutely aware of the difficulty in finding educated,

clearly shows that college graduates earn more than those without a college

well qualified employees for their organizations. While there are many

credential. In our region, labor data demonstrates that Associate degree

reasons for the shortage, one of the most alarming in the Commonwealth

holders make on average $10,100 more annually, and Bachelor degree

is the workforce participation rate. With a workforce participation rate of

holders $24,500, more than high school diploma-only holders.

57.6%, Kentucky ranks 47th among states, which is well below the national

average of 62.7%. There is a strong need to further educate and train many working age adults in order to prepare them for the high demand, high wage fields that are currently in demand.

There is some good news. First, in a recent survey of students at Owensboro Community and Technical College (OCTC) 70% of the 155 respondents indicated the reason why they were attending college was to prepare for a career. Students are becoming more attuned to gaining the necessary skills they will need for gainful employment. Furthermore, students that do complete a college credential are getting the skills needed for today’s workplace. At OCTC the licensure pass rate for all career technical programs is 90%, with healthcare career programs such as nursing, radiography and surgical technology being significantly higher than 90%.

However, many unemployed or underemployed adults still find it difficult to balance family and work obligations, plus make the financial commitment necessary to attend college. In order to help address the family and work obligations, OCTC, in conjunction with the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GO EDC) and area employers, have initiated a number of new programs. These include the GO FAME program for advanced manufacturing and the GO CAREERS programs in business and medical assisting. These programs allow students to work three days a week and attend college two days a week—and complete a degree in less than 18 months. Furthermore, with employer sponsorships these students complete their degrees and enter the workforce with little to no student debt.

OCTC offers most courses in a two -day a week format to accommodate student’s family and work schedules. These are just a few of the innovative

28

Fortunately, there is a new incentive to encourage adults without a higher

education credential to attend college. In the summer of 2017 Governor Bevin issued an executive order creating the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship. This program provides financial assistance for people who want to earn a credential and enter the workforce. The scholarship was created in part for those adults “locked out” of high demand, high wage jobs because they lacked the required higher education and training.

Any Kentucky resident who has not earned an Associate, Bachelor, or higher degree and wants to earn a certificate or diploma in one of five high demand sectors is eligible.

Those sectors include Healthcare, Advanced

Manufacturing, Transportation, Business Services and Information Technology, and Construction related trades. As long as the applicant has earned a high school diploma or GED, they can be awarded a scholarship to cover tuition for up to 32 credit hours. Interested students must apply for federal financial aid before they are eligible to apply for the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship through the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA). OCTC offers more than 130 certificate and diploma credentials in those five industry sectors, allowing students to go to college and get to work quickly. In short, the scholarship opens up the opportunity for adults, or recent high school graduates, to “get in, get out, and get to work”.

Please spread the word regarding this excellent scholarship opportunity. For more information on OCTC programs that qualify, visit WorkReadyKentucky.com then select the “college contacts.” You can select Owensboro and OCTC Work Ready Programs for a complete list. Stop by

ways OCTC and the greater Owensboro region are working together to fill

the Main Campus at 4800 New Hartford Road and visit the START Center to

the pipeline.

apply to OCTC. Our Financial Aid Office will help you navigate the FASFA

Even with these flexible and programs adults often feel like they do not

and the Work Ready KY application. For more information about the Work

have the financial means to attend college and forego formal education.

Ready Scholarship and to see if you qualify, contact Rebecca Simon via

While education is certainly not the only answer to a successful career, data

e-mail at rebecca.simon@kctcs.edu or by phone at 270-686-3795.

GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

SPOTLIGHT NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR

BOULWARE MISSION

Boulware Mission has been a staple of the Owensboro

and more.

community for the past 96 years. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mission began as

Today, Boulware Mission provides shelter services

the dream of a local school teacher, Miss Milton Boulware,

to displaced men as well as a long-term self-sufficiency

who wanted to help feed the poor and shelter the homeless.

program aimed at helping clients become independent,

She and four colleagues founded the Gospel Center Mission,

contributing members of the community. Boulwareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clients

which would later be re-named the Boulware Mission, on

are provided with case management services; educational

May 23, 1921. In its early days, it served as a settlement

programs, including financial literacy, GED tutoring, and

house and a place where neighborhood children could

employment skills; and licensed substance abuse treatment.

be supervised after school. Over the years, the work of

In addition to the residential services, several services are

the Mission has adapted many times in order to meet the

offered to the public including an all-female substance abuse

greatest needs of the community. It has always served as

treatment program, DUI education program, and treatment

a faith-based shelter; but in addition it has been a soup

program for men.

kitchen, community center, day care center, Sunday school,

The Mission works with several local referral sources

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

to provide services to individuals in need. They understand that

through the financial literacy course. As a result, 221 began using a

combating the host of problems their clients are facing is not just

personal budget and 211 paid down debt and/or established savings.

about providing a bed to sleep in at night. Each of Boulware’s clients

75% of clients attended employment skills training and 95% of

is different and the definition of success is different for each person.

clients who completed the program left the Mission employed. Five

clients enrolled in college while residing at the Mission last year.

“The overall program we offer is constantly changing with the

needs of our clientele,” explains Executive Director Leigha Taylor.

Boulware employs 15 people, including administrative staff,

“Years ago, we introduced a licensed substance abuse treatment

case managers, treatment providers, and security staff, and relies on

program; that is now a very big part of our overall program. We

volunteers to help with various programming and client activities.

really try to make a concerted effort to look at what the needs are

Operating on approximately $560,000 each year, the organization

of the people that we are serving, what it is that we can do to serve

is supported by the United Way, fundraisers, community churches,

them better, and what we can introduce to help them be more

organizations, local businesses, and individuals. Their signature

successful.”

fundraiser, Dancing with Our Stars Owensboro Style, has become

one of the most anticipated events of the year.

In 2016, Boulware served a total of 311 residential clients. An

additional 131 people were served through their public programs.

Of the 311 residents, 15% were disabled, 5% were veterans, and

become self-sufficient through education, treatment, and services.

16% had no high school diploma. 199 (64%) residents attended the

All services offered by the Mission are geared towards changing

on-site treatment program. Also, 91% of residential clients went

lives and providing a new beginning to those in need.

The mission of Boulware Mission is to help displaced individuals

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BOULWARE, PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITE, WWW.BOULWAREMISSION.ORG OR CALL 270-683-8267.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

11-50 EMPLOYEES

KELLER WILLIAMS KELLY ANNE HARRIS TEAM

The Kelly Anne Harris Team strives to exceed its clients’ expectations. “We love being able to help clients through what will probably be their largest financial decision,” Harris says. “We know we can not take this lightly, so we are constantly training and learning in order to provide the best service possible. We have numerous systems in place so that our team can stay on the same page and in turn provide a better customer experience.”

Kelly has been in the real estate business since 2010, when she began by knocking on every door in her market. From there, she has built a business from being a solo agent and closing 142 transactions to hiring her first assistant in 2014 and building a team with 13 members.

Harris says joining Keller Williams brought more growth and stability. “Since joining Keller Williams, my team has set itself up for the future. Before KW, our team was all about chasing the lead for today, but KW taught us to run our daily operations more like a business. We now have a roadmap for success and have the systems and tools to get us there,” Harris says.

In early 2016, Harris obtained her broker license and, in July, was awarded the Keller Williams Franchise for the Owensboro, Henderson, and Madisonville Territory, naming her brokerage Keller Williams Elite Realty.

Keller Williams Elite now has more than 35 people under its umbrella, including a property management company, Elite Realty Management. In their first year, KW Elite was ranked in the top 3 offices for market share. Kelly enjoys coaching and trains regularly in the market center.

Community service and civic activities are part of the culture

at Keller Williams Elite Realty. Team members serve on multiple boards and committees that give back to the community (Puzzle Pieces, Owensboro Health Foundation, Cliff Hagan Boys and Girls Club, Boulware Mission, Brescia University, Church Clubs, etc.).

Kelly is a member of Impact 100, participated in Dancing with our Stars benefiting the Boulware Mission, and has supported Puzzle Pieces in numerous ways such as serving as Co-Chair of the board of directors and organizing multiple fundraisers.

She says customer service is key to maintaining their level of

professionalism that has won several prestigious recognitions across the city, region, and nation. “We realize that having multiple people working with one client means that we have to have exceptional communication behind the scenes. The systems we have in place hold all team members accountable to getting their tasks done while alerting the client on progress made,” Harris explained. “We also reach out to past clients through email, physical mail and phone calls to make sure that we stay top of mind when it comes to real estate. We are proud to run our real estate careers as a business.”

Kelly Anne believes in helping others achieve their dreams

and loves to inspire others to reach their full potential. “We strive to be better leaders, realtors, and people every day and we have an abundant thought process that surrounds our team! Our mission is to create a legacy here in Owensboro and surrounding counties while achieving everyone’s individual goals and ambitions. We do everything in our power to give them the tools, systems, and accountability to help them achieve their goals.”

KELLY ANNE HARRIS TEAM - KELLER WILLIAMS ELITE | 123 W 4TH ST #301 | OWENSBORO, KY 42303 | (270) 929-5857

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

Foundations for

PHILANTHROPIC GRANTS

Greater Owensboro is a very generous community full of individuals and organizations who donate their time and money to make our town a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

Here are a few examples of philanthropic foundations who are Chamber members dedicated to making Greater Owensboro stronger through charitable contributions. For a full list of other philanthropic Chamber members, please visit Chamber.Owensboro.com.

GREEN RIVER AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Founded 1993

The Community Foundation is a tax-exempt, public charity, with a long-term goal of building permanent component funds established by many different donors to help improve the quality of life in our communities.

In 1993, the Community Foundation of Owensboro-Daviess County was established by community leaders, as an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Louisville, to provide additional opportunities for philanthropy while enhancing pride in regional citizenship. Waitman Taylor served as the first Advisory Board Chair.

Then, in 2009, the foundation expanded to include the surrounding counties of Hancock, McLean, Ohio, Union, and Webster; and the name was changed to the Green River Area Community Foundation.

The mission of the Green River Area Community Foundation (GRACF) is to advance philanthropy by serving the charitable interests of donors, enabling increased charitable giving, and improving the community by being a permanent philanthropic resource for current and future needs.

As a donor through the Community Foundation, you become an important part of the future of your community. Through your fund, you can support your interests to meet the current and future needs of your community and beyond. Your fund joins others to multiply its impact and becomes part of an enduring philanthropic resource for the community, county and region. The Community Foundation is a resource for individuals, groups, or agencies to support charitable organizations. Various fund options are available to meet each donor’s goals. Charitable Checking Funds can be opened quickly and easily with no minimum balance, to provide one account for all of the account holder’s charitable giving. The donor receives the tax deduction when funds are deposited into the account, so separate receipts are not necessary for each distribution to nonprofits. Charitable Checking Funds have no fees, but also are not invested for growth. Endowment Funds are invested for growth with the investment policy chosen by the donor, typically opened with a minimum of $25,000. The fund donor also decides if the fund

will be permanently endowed, or if the funds will be spent down over a chosen number of years. The donor can decide if they want to make all funding decisions, if they want funds to be allocated to a particular field of interest of their choice (arts, education, homelessness, etc.), or to one specific charitable organization. Some funds are created by groups of people as a memorial to honor a deceased loved one. Scholarships have been a common fund option set up as memorials. Also, nonprofit agencies can set up endowment funds or scholarship funds through the Community Foundation to benefit from the investment options, as well as the support services available, such as, online scholarship applications, and state tax credits for Kentucky donors. Of the more than 60 funds within GRACF, the Advisory Board determines the distribution of funds from only three of them. This fall, the Grant-Making Committee has invited nonprofits to apply for Capacity Building Grants from the Owensboro-Daviess County Community Fund.

The Community Foundation is funded by numerous individuals, groups, agencies, corporations, as well as by bequests. There are currently over 60 separate funds that are directed by nearly 60different donors. Anyone can create their own fund, or contribute to existing funds. Gifts of cash, as well as, stocks, bonds, real estate, or other assets can be accepted as donations to GRACF funds.

This year, the Grant-Making Committee chose to focus on Capacity Building Grants. Grants will be made out of the OwensboroDaviess County Community Fund, therefore, are available to charitable organizations in Daviess County. Interested nonprofits are required to complete the online application by November 10.

Grants can be requested in amounts up to $10,000. Awards will be announced mid-December, with funds distributed JanuaryDecember of 2018. Capacity Building Grants are an investment that strengthens a nonprofit’s efficiency, effectiveness, and/ or sustainability. Hopefully, in the near future, there will be funds established in every county of our region to address needs in all our communities.

Amy L. Silvert, Executive Director, Green River Area Community Foundation | amy@greenrivercf.org 200 East Third Street | P.O. Box 825, Owensboro, KY 42302

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LAWRENCE AND AUGUSTA HAGER EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION Founded 1990

The LAHEF’s philanthropic focus on helping the community improve opportunities for children can be traced back to 1917 when Lawrence W. Hager Sr. created the Goodfellows Club to ensure that no child was forgotten at Christmas.

The Lawrence and Augusta Hager Educational Foundation (LAHEF) was created in November of 1990 by Lawrence W. Hager Jr. The foundation is named in honor of his parents.

Throughout its 27 year history, the LAHEF has focused its resources on: • Increasing public awareness of the needs of economically challenged children and families • Helping the community recognize and celebrate the excellence of many of its outstanding education and human resource professionals and their organizations • Advocating for cost-effective public policies, programs and services that improve opportunities for children to be healthy, succeed in school and become productive adults • Supporting collaborative efforts to create a system of services to better meet the needs of children and families • Creating public civil conversation and dialogue about the challenges now confronting economically challenged families in our community

The LAHEF has assets of approximately $4 million.

The annual income generated by those assets is used to support programming in the areas previously mentioned.

In 2018, the LAHEF expects to continue its support of the Community Dental Clinic, the Rotary Club Youth Fund which assists Family Resource and Youth Service Centers address out of classroom barriers which impede academic achievement, RiverPark Center’s Arts Teach Kids, Kentucky Youth Advocates, and the Pritchard Committee for Academic Excellence.

The LAHEF will continue to provide the administrative support for the Green River Asset Building Coalition’s (GRABC) free tax preparation services for working lowto-moderate income families. The GRABC operates as an informal collaborative of 140 + volunteers, 40 private and public agencies, and 15 private businesses and foundations whose mission is to help working lowto-moderate income families become financially self sufficient. In the past 13 years, GRABC’s IRS trained and certified volunteer tax preparers have completed and filed over 39,000 tax returns at no charge for working families in the Green River service area. A conservative estimate of the aggregate savings in tax preparation and filing fees exceeds $8 million.

Organizations interested in grant support from the LAHEF should call (270) 685-5707 or email ksanders@lahef.org.

Non-P rofit

ORGANIZATIONS Aid the Homeless, Inc.

Dream Riders of Kentucky

A community charity that donates 100% of their net proceeds to local shelters.

Providing equine assisted therapy for those with physical, mental or emotional challenges.

American Cancer Society Joining the fight to end cancer and saving lives.

Friends of Sinners

American Red Cross

A long term facility that focuses on the restoration of addictions through the transforming of the mind.

Providing disaster relief and helps people during disasters.

Friends of the Library

Audubon Area Community Services, Inc. Helping people. Changing lives. Building communities.

Members devoted to promoting awareness of the library’s resources, providing funding for special projects of the library, and supporting the freedom to read.

Boulware Mission, Inc.

Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana

Helping displaced individuals become self-sufficient through education, treatment, and case management services.

Brandon Scott Mullins Memorial Foundation Honoring the memory of SPC Brandon Scott Mullins through leadership scholarships and support of other meaningful veterans support projects and organizations.

Care Net Owensboro Counseling and support regarding abortion and pregnancy-related issues.

CASA of Ohio Valley CASA specially selects, trains, and supports volunteer advocates to be the voice for innocent child victims.

Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club, Inc. Programs and services to promote and enhance the development of boys and girls 6-18 yrs of age by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence.

Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.

Girls Incorporated of OwensboroDaviess Co. Inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

Goodfellows Club Reaching out to Daviess County’s less fortunate children since 1916 providing clothing, shoes, coats, dental care, and Christmas joy.

Green River Area Down Syndrome Association - GRADSA Enabling families enriched with the Down Syndrome connection to share resources, build friendships, and advocate together for the future of individuals with Down Syndrome.

H.L. Neblett Community Center Committed to empowering the lives of children and adults through our many programs and activities.

Dismas Charities of Owensboro

Habitat for Humanity of Owensboro-Daviess Co.

A national company committed to reducing victimization in communities by providing effective re-entry programs for offenders.

Building and improving homes in partnership with individuals and families in need of a decent and affordable place to live.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

Hospice of Western Kentucky Helping individuals live with dignity through the final stages of life.

Impact 100 Owensboro Inc. A community of women that seeks to transform lives in the Greater Owensboro Area through high-impact and lifelong giving.

International Center of Kentucky

Owensboro Regional Suicide Prevention Coalition, Inc. Working together as neighbors in our community to prevent the tragedy of suicide and its aftermath.

Puzzle Pieces, Inc.

Right to Life of Owensboro

Addressing the needs of refugees and immigrants in their assimilation to community life by providing employment, educational, housing, and other social services.

A non-profit, non-denominational, and non-political organization whose mission is to change hearts and minds so that everyone will understand that life begins at the moment of conception and ends with natural death.

Lighthouse Recovery Services, Inc.

St. Joseph’s Peace Mission for Children

Providing housing, mentoring, and life skills for individuals dealing with substance abuse.

March of Dimes Improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

Matthew 25 AIDS Services Providing high-quality services for those affected by HIV/AIDS.

MentorKids Kentucky One-to-one mentoring program that matches adults with youth 6 to 14 years old from single-parent and non-traditional households.

Munday Activity Center Activity and information center for persons who are 60 years of age or older.

OASIS, Inc. Domestic Violence Program for battered women and their dependent children.

Owensboro Autism Network Families supporting families through daily struggles of having loved ones with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Owensboro Career Development Assoc., Inc. Non-profit minority educational program with focus on scholarship and school drop out issues.

Owensboro Chapter of the NAACP Christian-based organization devoted to promoting civil justice and racial and ethnic equality.

Owensboro Goodwill Industries & Goodwill Job Placement Services Training and employment tools to offer maximum opportunity for program participants to reach their full potential.

Owensboro Lions Club Empowering volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace, and promote international understanding through Lions clubs.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

OWENSBORO HEALTH FOUNDATION

Providing a safe environment for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Providing dependent children, sibling groups, or pregnant teens in need with a safe, caring Christian environment where peace, love and security may be found.

Susan G. Komen Evansville Tri-State

Founded 1993

Owensboro Health Foundation, as a

subsidiary of Owensboro Health, is a 501(c) (3),

not-for-profit

organization,

partners

with individuals, corporations, community organizations

and

other

foundations

to

support a multitude of worthy health initiatives in western Kentucky and southern Indiana.

Owensboro Health Foundation’s mission

Saving lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.

is to develop volunteerism and philanthropy

The Arc of Owensboro, Inc./ Opportunity Center Workshop, Inc.

the Foundation has supported numerous

Providing vocational and daily living oriented training to adults with disabilities, increasing their social and vocational independence as well as the ability to independently participate in the community.

The Children’s Advocacy Center of Green River Promoting the prevention of child abuse and family violence in all its forms, and improving community services for child abuse victims and their families.

The Daniel Pitino Shelter Established in 1994 to address the growing problem of homelessness in the area and to make available additional emergency and transitional housing with essential services for the homeless.

to heal the sick and improve the health of the communities we serve. Since its inception, Owensboro Health projects impacting the lives of the people in our region.

In fiscal

year 2017 (June 1, 2016-May 31, 2017), 4,651 of our family members, friends and neighbors benefited by

the

through Foundation.

programs Owensboro

provided Health

Foundation achieves its mission through fundraising and grant-making to meet the needs of the Owensboro Health system that would not otherwise be funded through traditional revenue streams.

The results of

the foundation’s support are outcomes that improve the quality of the lives of the people in our 14-county area, and in many cases, save

The Salvation Army

lives in our communities. Presently, the region

The Salvation Army exists to meet human need wherever, whenever, and however we can.

served by the healthcare system encompasses

United Way of the Ohio Valley Uniting the citizens of our partnership communities into an organized effort to provide funds to meet our current and emerging human service needs.

Wendell Foster Providing children and adults with developmental disabilities with the tools, education, therapies, and support to reach their dreams and potential.

Young Life of Greater Owensboro Adults concerned enough about kids to go to them, on their turf and in their culture, building bridges of authentic friendship.

a 14-county area of western Kentucky and southern Indiana.

Owensboro Health Foundation raises

restricted

and

unrestricted

contributions

through a diverse approach each year that includes a gala, a golf outing, two employee payroll deduction campaigns, major gifts solicitations, board of directors’ campaigns, grant writing, direct mail appeals, Lights for Life Campaign, and planned giving.

Pat Serey, Executive Director pat.sereyowensborohealth.org | (270) 688-2136

THE MARILYN AND WILLIAM YOUNG CHARITABLE FOUNDATION Founded 1998

The Marilyn and William Young Charitable Foundation is a private foundation that assists charitable programs and projects by providing grants to not-for-profit organizations located primarily in Owensboro and Daviess County, Kentucky.

The Foundation supports organizations in the areas of the arts, education, health, social services, the environment, and historic preservation. Our Trustees encourage funding of

agencies with a strong mission and an effective, committed Board of Directors.

Funding for the Foundation is endowed via an estate gift from Marilyn and Bill Young.

As for current initiatives, the Foundation will continue to support our wide range of selected charities throughout 2017/2018.

Sara Hemingway | (270) 663-1043 | shemingway@owensboro.com | 200 East Third Street, Owensboro, KY 42303

FOUNDATION FOR DCPS Founded 1990s

The Foundation for Daviess County Public Schools board and staff work to actively engage our community to cultivate human and financial resources to enhance educational experiences for 11,700+ students who attend 18 DCPS schools.

The Foundation for Daviess County Public Schools was founded in the late 1990’s when it became apparent to the DCPS administrative team that state and local funding would continue to fall short of meeting the educational and other needs of students and staff. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit agency governed by a board of directors comprised of up to 13 community volunteers plus the DCPS superintendent and one member of the DCPS school board. The Foundation adopted an Executive Director leadership model in 2012.

The Foundation’s Vision: “The highest quality education is the single best investment we can make in our children and their future.” The Mission is “To encourage, recognize and support community passion for education that empowers students to exceed expectations.” The Foundation for DCPS partners with local businesses and individuals to provide resources to enhance educational experiences and remove educational barriers for more than 11,700 students.

The Foundation secures funding from its board of directors, DCPS staff payroll deduction, businesses, individuals and local/ regional granting organizations. In the past, we have held fundraising events and plan to do so in the future.

The Foundation is grateful to all of the generous people who invest in children and their educational experiences!

The Foundation has several programs and initiatives, including: • Announcement of 2017 Distinguished Alumni coming soon!

• Exploration Station - With the help of Title Sponsor Kentucky Legend (a division of Specialty Foods Group), co-sponsor, Domtar and many other sponsors, Exploration Station was created in 2016. Exploration Station recently completed a successful summer season bringing learning opportunities, free books, and virtual reality to hundreds of students in 13 neighborhoods for seven weeks during the summer of 2017. Exploration Station is scheduled for after school each week with Burns Elementary

School and with schools throughout the district to incorporate virtual reality into curriculum.

• Kids on Campus - The Foundation provides opportunities for hundreds of first generation and other students to visit college campuses to explore academic, cultural and social opportunities.

Apollo, Daviess County and Heritage Park high school students will visit the following campuses this fall: Murray State University, Brescia University, Kentucky Wesleyan College, University of Southern Indiana, University of Louisville, Campbellsville University, Lindsey Wilson University, and Western Kentucky University.

• First Generation Scholars - Old National Bank, U S Bank and Kentucky Legend/Specialty Foods Group partner with Mentor Teachers to mentor students at Apollo and Daviess County high schools to help them learn soft skills and build their resumes for college and career.

• Focus Awards - Yearly, the Foundation sponsors $1,000 classroom grants in the areas of health, literacy, technology and Great Expectations (soon to become the Kids First grant).

• Houston Hogg Youth Fund - The Foundation works with alumni, like the DCHS Class of 1967, who have established the Houston Hogg Youth Fund to benefit students throughout the district through the Family Resource & Youth Service Centers.

• Sorgho’s Learning Zone - The Foundation partners with local businesses to provide educational enhancements for students such as First Security Bank’s continuous funding for Sorgho’s Learning Zone, which provides tutoring and homework help for at-risk students.

• individuals and groups - The Foundation partners with individuals and groups, like the Ralph and Georgia Nave family to put memorial gifts to work for kids through the Youth Service Center at Daviess County High School and the Brandon Scott Mullins family, who provide two $500 scholarships each year to Apollo graduates in memory of their son.

• Discretionary Fund Grants are available to teachers and schools who need small amounts of money to make a big impact with students. Discretionary Fund Grants are fully funded by DCPS payroll deduction.

Vicki Quisenberry, Executive Director | VickiQ@FoundationForDCPS.org | (270) 231-5583 | www.foundationfordcps.org Facebook: Foundation for DCPS | Twitter @FDCPS Donations may be made to the Foundation via direct mail or online: Foundation for DCPS, Attn: Ms. Becky Whitehead, CPA, Treasurer P.O. Box 21510 | Owensboro, KY 42304 | foundationfordcps.weshareonline.org/ws/opportunities

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

PUBLIC LIFE FOUNDATION Founded 1996

The Public Life Foundation wants to expand access to quality

early childhood education for Daviess County children (0-5) from

community shares its wisdom and its resources in finding creative and sustainable solutions to this problem.

low-income families.

The mission of PLFO has historically been to foster civic

coalition of human and financial capital that will expand programs

engagement on a variety of local issues. In recent years, the

that strengthen the social and intellectual development of our most

foundation has narrowed its focus to youth and education, most recently providing grants to 10 local youth-oriented organizations.

Major revenue comes from an endowment created by John

and Marjorie Hager through the sale of the Messenger-Inquirer.

Only 50% of children from Daviess County entering kindergarten

are ready to succeed. We need to do better. To accomplish that, the

Our goal for 2017 and the years ahead is to build a community

vulnerable citizens: its young children.

Daviess County has a history of cooperation in getting things

done. The Public Life Foundation wants to capitalize on this rare community asset so that ALL our children have a better chance to succeed in school and to enjoy productive, satisfying lives.

Public Life Foundation has pledged up to $4 million to spearhead

a communitywide Early Childhood Education Initiative. Though

to help find the most effective programs to accomplish that goal.

An advisory committee of local stakeholders has been created

this initiative was begun by PLFO, it will succeed only if the whole

Stay tuned.

David Boeyink, Executive Director | (270) 685-2652 | david.boeyink@plfo.org

THE FOUNDATION FOR EXCELLENCE OWENSBORO INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Founded 1998 The mission of the Foundation for Excellence Owensboro

grants are funded by the grant recipients themselves. This fundraiser

Independent Schools is to raise, receive, manage, and distribute

is done in August-September of each year. Since 2009, an average

donations from private sources for the enrichment of the educational

of 220 employees annually gave almost $14,000 out of their own

programs of the Owensboro Public Schools.

pockets/paychecks each year to help fund school grants. That

It is the goal of this Foundation for Excellence to help create

hard-earned money comes from teachers, administrators, cafeteria

experiences and opportunities for students, raising achievement

staff, bus drivers, secretaries, and other OPS staff. 100% of those

levels and preparing them for jobs of the future while enriching

employee donations are given back to the schools in the form of

community life and contributing to economic growth. The

mini-grants for various educational projects. The 30% percentage

Owensboro Public Schools have many unmet needs including special lectures, computer experiences, educational grants for extraordinary educational opportunities, teacher mini-grants for innovative educational projects, and new technological equipment that can enhance the educational experience. Since 2005, $104,303 has been distributed in the form of 100 grants to teachers and schools. The 15-member Board of Directors votes on the applications submitted yearly by OPS teachers and employees for the grants.

The Foundation also collects and distributes funds used for

of OPS employees giving to the OPS Foundation is well above the national average, as reported by the National School Foundation Association.

The use of memorial contributions can be determined by the

family, whether it be scholarships or to a specific OPS program.

One major community fundraiser took place in 2011 when the

Foundation hosted the Second City Comedy Troupe at Owensboro High School with net revenues of almost $14,000.

The Foundation is currently one of five finalists for an

health needs of students as well as needs of the athletic department.

Impact 100 grant of $100,000 to fund improvements to the Foust

University/college scholarships for many students are distributed

Elementary School playground to make it accessible to special

through the foundation with many being funded through memorial

needs students as well as a community playground after school

gifts.

hours for the neighborhood.

Foundation funding is primarily acquired through OPS employee

The Foundation is a contributing partner with Owensboro High

donations, memorial contributions, and individual donations from

School for the Hall of Achievement program.

alumni, community members, and businesses.

innovative educational programs of Owensboro Public Schools.

The Owensboro Public Schools Foundation for Excellence

Current focus for 2017 is to continue funding unmet needs and

Janet Suwanski, Executive Director | 450 Griffith Ave. | Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 686-1000 or (270) 929-2417 | Janet.suwanski@owensboro.kyschools.us | opsfoundation@owensboro.kyschools.us

More examples can be found on the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce website (Chamber.Owensboro.com) on the Member Directory page under the Family, Community, and Civic Organizations category.

38 GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

O W E N S B O R O S H E LT E R S :

A COMMUNITY EFFORT OWENSBORO BUSINESSES D ONATE TIME, TALENT, RESOURCES, AND FINANCES TO LO CAL SHELTERS.

BY TARYN NORRIS - PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

T

hanks to countless organizations, churches, businesses, and individuals across the Owensboro-Daviess County area, local shelters like St. Benedict’s, Boulware Mission, and

the Daniel Pitino Shelter are able to offer a better quality of life to the homeless in our community. Through the generous donations of time, talent, resources, and finances, Owensboro businesses are making a difference by giving back to the community.

Harry Pedigo, executive director of St. Benedict’s Homeless

Shelter, recognizes the need for community support as a fact of survival for his organization. “St. Benedict’s functions with donations only. We don’t receive any state funding,” he states. Pedigo says that banks, medical practices, car dealerships, schools, non-profit

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

Pitino Shelter volunteers prepare Halloween treats for residents

Boulware Mission director, Leigha Taylor, and two residents sort donations in the Mission’s food pantry.

St. Benedict’s Shelter executive director, Harry Pedigo, checks the calendar in the community room of the shelter.

organizations, grocery stores, and more than 60 different

role in teaching financial literacy classes is at the core of our

churches are just a few out of many groups who contribute to

Why Statement at First Security Bank – “Transforming lives

St. Benedict’s. “We have people that will help with any need,

through mutual trust.” We love and support what the shelter

whether it’s cleaning, painting, landscaping, serving food, or

is doing for their clients and the Owensboro community. Our

assigning chores to residents,” Pedigo says.

small part of their mission helps transform lives by developing

One exceptional way that a local business provides a

the skills necessary to live independently in the future. We

service to St. Benedict’s is by creating and leading free financial

teach the FDIC Money Smart program, which includes 11

literacy classes to the residents at St. Benedict’s. Ladona

modules. The modules cover things like how to maintain a

Burns, Banking Center Manager at First Security Bank,

checking account, build spending plans, the importance of

provides insight into that service: “For more than two years

saving and how to build or repair credit. While the content is

we’ve partnered with our friends at St. Benedict’s Homeless

important in what we are teaching, the connections have been

Shelter to help them provide life skills to their clients. Our

the most rewarding.”

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

Similarly, other banks in Owensboro

provide free financial literacy courses to two other homeless shelters: Old National Bank to Boulware Mission and Republic Bank to the Daniel Pitino Shelter.

At

Boulware

Mission,

meeting

the needs of displaced individuals and emphasizing recovery and self-sufficiency is at the core of the organization. Since the shelter is open 24 hours a day, seven days a Thad Gunderson, executive director of the Daniel Pitino Shelter

week, Boulware must provide three meals a day to its residents. Thanks to the generous donations of vendors like Kentucky Legend, CRS OneSource and many others, Boulware can provide all meals to all of its residents.

Just a couple of the generous businesses that donate their time and efforts include: Don Moore Automotive Group and Overflow Cafe, the title sponsors of the annual golf scramble and Old National Bank, with their role as title sponsor of Dancing with our Stars Owensboro Style, as well as their willingness to help with any need that comes up throughout the year and the University of Louisville – Owensboro campus Nursing program, by providing student nurses that conduct health education classes to clients

Leigha Taylor, executive director of Boulware Mission with two of the residents.

at Boulware.

Fundraisers like Dancing with our

Stars promote community cooperation and raise awareness and finances for the needs of the displaced population in the Owensboro community met at Boulware.

Executive director Leigha Taylor believes that Boulware couldn’t provide services to clients without the support of local partners.

“They go above and beyond to provide both services and goods that we need, that we wouldn’t be able to have without them.”

Thad Gunderson, executive director at

the Daniel Pitino Shelter, says the ways in which the community helps out are endless.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

Harry Pedigo, executive director of St. Benedict’s Homeless Shelter

BB&T hosts a block party; Sam’s Club, Walmart, and Kroger each

fundraisers to benefit the homeless community, including St.

donate hundreds of thousands of dollars of food each year to help

Benedict’s, Boulware Mission, and the Daniel Pitino Shelter. Gale

provide for the 300 meals the Pitino Shelter provides each day.

Niehaus, president of the fundraiser as well as a Realtor® with

Recently, Home Depot approached the Pitino Shelter and donated

Century 21 partners, testifies that “Aid The Homeless, Greater

many necessary items that the shelter needed. Aside from financial

Owensboro Realtor Association’s 501(c)(3), was developed to

and physical needs, other contributions include the creation of a new website by Red Pixel Studios. Another unique contribution to the Daniel Pitino Shelter is the complete remodel of the storage and kitchen areas of the shelter. Local manufacturing company Southwire, located in Hawesville, Kentucky, contacted Gunderson about how they could best serve the shelter. At no benefit to their company, Southwire is selflessly donating time, resources, and manpower to create a more efficient space for the shelter.

Pedigo believes that the mission of St. Benedict’s is the

mission of all the shelters in Owensboro, to provide a temporary refuge, non-judgmental environment, counseling, and the tools

assist our local homeless shelters. To date, we have donated in excess of $250,000. Our donations are not earmarked for a specific purpose. Shelter directors/boards may use the money in any way they see fit. Our contributions to the homeless population are a way to give back to a community that has been so good to us.

We are honored to be able to serve all…those purchasing/selling homes and those who are not currently in a position to do so.” To learn more, please check out the website, aidthehomeless.org or find them on Facebook.

Owensboro businesses are playing a huge part in helping

to become independent to the homeless community. The team-

the homeless community through their time, donations,

oriented mission to serve the homeless community is not limited

support, and volunteerism. Join their efforts today by

to just one shelter; it’s a community-wide effort. It’s a goal and a

contacting St. Benedict’s (stbenedictsowensboro.org/contact-

promise to reach out to the less fortunate in the Owensboro area.

us), Boulware Mission (boulwaremission.org/contact.html),

or the Daniel Pitino Shelter (pitinoshelter.org/contact.htm).

Aid the Homeless is one of the area’s most successful

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

IT y a D k c a B Give

started out simple enough. WBKR’s Dave Spencer asked St. Joseph Peace Mission for Children

marketing director, Bradley DeHart, if the station could

AT ST. JOSEPH PEACE MISSION

come help could come help at the Mission during Townsquare Media’s next “give back” day.

Spencer said they were looking for some “hands-

on” work to help with. When Brad suggested the Peace Mission could use a few rooms painted, someone called Ben Pearl who quickly agreed to supply the paint needed and the project snowballed from there.

Brian Bumm jumped on board to suggest colors, carpet, and other interior design decisions. Royalty Cleaning agreed to deep clean the entire house.

Friends of Sinners sent volunteers.

(LEFT) BRADLEY DEHART (L), ST. JOSEPH PEACE MISSION FOR CHILDREN MARKETING DIRECTOR, AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PAULA YEVINCY (R). (RIGHT) AN EMPLOYEE WITH BEN PEARL PAINTING PUTS FINISHING TOUCHES ON THE NEW COAT OF PAINT IN THE LIVING HOME OF THE PEACE MISSION. PHOTOS BY DANNY MAY

“Before we knew it, this basically turned into

an extreme home makeover,” DeHart said from Director Paula Yevincy’s office in the annex behind the home as volunteer workers buzzed around the entire property inside and out. “This has been amazing. They have truly turned this house into a home today.”

Yevincy and DeHart said once donations started

piling in, the project required weekly meetings for six weeks to coordinate all the details, culminating in one massive workday on September 18, 2017, from 7am to 7pm.

The plan called for work to begin as soon as the

residents left for school. “We had work crews lined up in vans down the block this morning, and as soon as the last school bus pulled away, they got to work,” Yevincy said. After school, while paint was still drying at the home and crews were putting on finishing touches, residents were treated to pizza by a local church and enjoyed movie passes donated by Malco Cinemas.

When they returned to the Peace Mission Monday evening, the home had been completely transformed on the inside.

It was a much-needed improvement for the home,

which serves as a crisis residence for 12 children. The home had not been updated in nearly 20 years. “I know this means so much to them. Seeing this really makes them feel appreciated and loved,” Yevincy said.

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

DeHart sees potential beyond the workday,

recalling a story relayed to him by one of the volunteers who mentioned to Bradley that they were once helped by a similar group of volunteers during a tough time when they were growing up. “Now these kids could be the next generation to give back like this when they get older.”

Altogether, about 80 volunteers helped throughout the day. Donations and volunteers were provided by: • Townsquare Media/WBKR (facilitation and labor) • Ben Pearl Painting (paint donation, drywall repair, and painting supplies) • BPPI Flooring (donation and installation of new carpet) • Royalty Cleaning Services (pre/post cleaning) • Brian Bumm Interior Design (paint color and carpet selection) • Disaster Team of Owensboro (dumpster) • Friends of Sinners (volunteer labor) • First Security Bank (new towels, magnetic boards, and bedding) • Independence Bank Loan Deptartment (board games and 4-square balls) • Isabel Ebelhare (donated Kitchen Aid range microwave) • L. Steve Castlen Realtors (Lowes Gift Card) • Wathen Pest Control (general spray) • Kathy Hudson State Farm (flat screen TV for living area) • Best Buy (donated TV for staff area) • Rosemary/Larry Conder (donated new kitchen table) • Chris Cail (provided large covered tent for outside) • Feta Pizza (provided lunch for 80 people) • Cabinet Door Guys of Fordsville (replacing damaged cabinet) • Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce (monetary donation) • Malco Cinema (movie tickets for kids) • Yellow Ambulance (labor and medic services) • ChickFilA (breakfast platters) • Tonya Kay (photography) • Hank A Martin 45

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10

QUESTIONS RODNEY BERRY

President of the Public Life Foundation of Owensboro from 2000-2016

BY DANNY MAY - PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

W H AT I S YOUR FAVOR I TE VACATION D ES T I NATI ON?

Anywhere there are marvelous museums, glorious landscapes, and, of course, a baseball park (Wrigley Field is a personal favorite).

W H O MENTOR ED YOU?

There were many. Coaches, teachers, civic leaders—too numerous to list.

H OW WOU L D YOU D ESCR I B E OW E N SB OR O TO SOMEONE WHO HAS N E VE R BEEN HER E ?

Owensboro is a great place to call home, with surprising big city amenities.

W H O MODEL ED PUB L I C SER V I C E OR C I V I C ENG AG EMENT F OR YOU AS YOU W E R E G R OWI NG UP ?

My parents were active volunteers: sports, civic clubs, and museums.

H OW A ND WHEN DI D YOU F I R ST B E C O M E I NTER ESTED I N CI V I C E N G AG EMENT AND COMMU NI T Y D E V E LOPMENT?

Shortly after returning home from college, I became involved with the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Owensboro Inc., the Jaycees, Leadership Owensboro, and various community board positions.

WHAT SKILLS DID YOU DEVELOP EARLY ON THAT YOU USED AS DIRECTOR OF THE RIVERPARK CENTER AND THE PUBLIC LIFE FOUNDATION?

Learning the value of team effort and different points of view in considering community priorities.

WHAT LE GACY DO YOU HOP E T HE P UBLIC LIFE FOUNDAT ION LE AVES FOR FUT URE GE NE RAT IONS ?

Everyday citizens can make a profound difference.

IN YOUR OP INION, WHAT IS T HE KE Y TO LONGE VIT Y AND S UCCESS FOR A NON-P ROFIT ?

Leaders who are committed to success.

HOW CAN OWE NS BORO S T ILL FIGHT T HE WAR ON P OVE RT Y IN 2018 AND BE YOND? By instilling and expanding a higher value of education in families, employers, and service organizations.

YOU WE RE CRE DIT E D WIT H HE LP ING T HE RIVE RPARK CE NT E R E VOLVE FROM A DRE AM INTO A RE ALIT Y; 25 Y E ARS L AT E R , WHAT GOES T HROUGH YOUR MIND WHE N YOU WALK ALONG T HE RIVE RFRONT TODAY ?

My role was overstated. The people we should thank are those who gave until it hurt for many years to make it happen. I’m proud that we incorporated such high standards and provided a framework for continuing investment and vitality.

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PHOTO BY DANNY MAY

DID ?

YOU

KNOW

CORRECT ANSWER:

OWENSBORO FAMILY YMCA FROM PAGE 7

According to an 1883 edition of the History of Daviess County found in the Kentucky Room at Daviess County Public Library, the Owensboro YMCA first opened in 1877. It briefly closed in 1886 but reformed in 1893.

Library staff also found record of other charitable organizations in the Kentucky Room archive, including St. Vincent DePaul Society (1880) and Knights of Columbus (1903) as well as numerous benevolent societies and several fraternal orders and lodges such as the Masons (1843), the Odd Fellows (1856), and the Elks (1891).

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

THE FINAL ANALYSIS JACLYN GRAVES

I

’ve been in Owensboro for ten years now and I know

good and it takes us all to make the greatest impact on

this much to be true; the Greater Owensboro area is

those around us. We’re all busy, we all have schedules and

a very giving community. I’m always amazed at how a

deadlines, and many of us have children and families of

city of this size manages to accomplish all that it does for

our own to take care of. But, we also all have talents and

non-profits and the disadvantaged. The reason so many feel loved and supported here is because of one thing, the people who call Owensboro home.

We serve on community boards, serve lunch at

homeless shelters and as advocates for those who don’t have a voice. We collect blankets and scarves for the elderly, provide food for children on the weekends and support countless charity events and annual fundraisers.

But, are we doing it for the right reasons or are we just

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Membership Development Manager

tools that can make the life of another person a little better.

I love this quote from Mother Teresa… “Love begins

at home, and it is not how much we do... but how much love we put in that action.” But, what is home? It’s not just the walls that keep our own family safe. “Home” is our neighborhoods, our churches, and our community.

Because Owensboro is home. And, to me, our home here is everything the eye can see and the heart can feel.

going through the motions for the Facebook likes and

resume builders? Are our efforts because of passion or

community of ours, this home of ours, will have the love

persuasion? Why do we do what we do?

and support it needs to continue to grow into the potential

we all have as individuals and as a whole.

We all have individual gifts that can help the greater

And, if we truly strive to lead with love, this

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

200 E 3rd St, Owensboro, KY 42303 (270) 926-1860 http://chamber.owensboro.com

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GO CHAMBER . FOURTH QUARTER 2017

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID OWENSBORO KY 42301 PERMIT NO 420