Five local nonprofits were recognized for their contributions to the 20th annual Christmas at Panther Creek holiday lights display during Thursday’s Daviess County Fiscal Court meeting. The organizations were each presented with a check for their volunteer efforts as gatekeepers during the event.
Despite being open six fewer days than in 2023, Christmas at Panther Creek in 2024 saw 5,490 vehicles pass through the drive-thru display, generating $27,450 in total revenue. Each of the five participating nonprofit organizations received $2,745 for their volunteer efforts as gatekeepers.
The recipients of this year’s funds were Josh’s Broken Feather, CrossRoads Inc., Boulware Mission, Dream Riders of Kentucky, and the Green Valley Beekeepers Association. Each group provides vital services to the community.
Samantha Taylor Kaai, representing CrossRoads Inc., expressed gratitude for the support, noting how impactful the funds will be for their programs.
“For those of you that are not familiar with CrossRoads, we are an emergency shelter for women and children and a food pantry,” Kaai said. “We have beds for 20 women and children, and about 90% of the nights, we are full. We give out about 30,000 pounds of food a month through our food pantry programs. This money will go directly back into helping us shelter more folks and giving out more food. We really appreciate it.”
Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen acknowledged the hard work of the nonprofits and the important role they played in the success of the holiday event.
“I just want to say a thank you on behalf of all of our community for the volunteer work each of you all do and also for stepping up and being our gatekeepers at Panther Creek Park during Christmas at Panther Creek,” Castlen said.
A closer look at the nonprofits:
- Josh’s Broken Feather helps individuals who have successfully completed an accredited long-term rehabilitation program by providing scholarships to further their education. The nonprofit has renewed its support of an Owensboro Community and Technical College scholarship aimed at offering bright futures to those in recovery.
- CrossRoads Inc. serves as an emergency shelter for women and children and operates a food pantry that distributes approximately 30,000 pounds of food monthly. The shelter offers 20 beds and is at capacity most nights.
- Boulware Mission provides emergency shelter and comprehensive services for individuals facing homelessness and addiction recovery. Their programs focus on helping residents regain independence and stability.
- Dream Riders of Kentucky offers equine-assisted therapy to children and adults with disabilities, helping improve physical, emotional, and social well-being.
- Green Valley Beekeepers Association promotes beekeeping education and awareness while supporting local beekeepers and pollinator health in the region.
