Be Change For The Child is an awareness campaign by Volunteer Owensboro to highlight 10 local nonprofit organizations that help children directly using volunteers like you.
Do we make a habit of counting our blessings each day? Travis Owsley does, and he’ll be the first to give God the credit for the blessings that flow through him to others. Through his work with Beverly’s Hearty Slice, he brings much-needed support to kids and adults in some of the most poverty-stricken areas of Owensboro. What may seem like a simple offering of pizza, chips, and hygiene items can make a world of difference for those living paycheck to paycheck — every little bit counts.
However, this mission is much bigger than just providing meals or toothbrushes. It’s about bringing the community together — people of all races, ages, and backgrounds. Every other week, hundreds of families, children, and individuals who might never have had the opportunity to meet one another come together in a shared space. Here, volunteers connect with them, seeing firsthand the needs and the thankful smiles that remind us all of the blessings we often take for granted.
Jesus reminds us, “What you do for others, you do for me.” Travis Owsley is leading hundreds of people to do just that, always humbly thanking God first, followed by the many supporters who make this mission possible. He is the perfect connector, because, let’s face it, many of us would hesitate to walk into an unfamiliar neighborhood and start showing love to those we don’t know. But Travis does just that, and so did his mother, Beverly.
The legacy of Beverly Owsley
Travis’s mother, Beverly, set the example of kindness that Travis now carries forward. Growing up in a neighborhood plagued by drugs and violence, Beverly opened her door to anyone in need. Despite having very little, she was always ready to share — whether it was a meal, a kind word, or just a listening ear. She welcomed strangers into her home with warmth, offering hospitality to those who needed it most.
Travis, as a young boy, witnessed the incredible impact of his mother’s generosity. She was a beacon of light in the darkness, and through her example, he saw how kindness could transform lives, create lasting friendships, and build a stronger, more connected community. It’s a lesson he’s carried with him throughout his life and now shares with his own children.
Continuing a tradition of service
Though Beverly has passed on, her legacy is alive and well through her son. Travis continues to honor her memory by carrying on her work — helping those in need and uniting people from all walks of life in the process. His mission, through Beverly’s Hearty Slice, is not just about feeding people, but about building a community where love and support are abundant.
Currently, Beverly’s Hearty Slice serves three locations bi-weekly: Kendall-Perkins Park, Girls Inc., and Dugan Best Recreational Center. They also hold special events for holidays, providing a sense of hope and connection for those who need it most.
Every month, around 200 children benefit from this outreach, receiving food, hygiene items, and — most importantly—connection to others. It’s a place where the simple act of sharing a meal can create bonds and inspire gratitude, making a big difference in the lives of all involved.
How You Can Help
There are several ways to get involved and support this important mission:
- Volunteer: Help with event setup, teardown, and cleanup. You can also assist by handing out pizza, water, or hygiene items. Volunteers of all ages are welcome when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Group volunteering: Families, co-workers, church youth groups, or Bible study groups can volunteer together, making a positive impact in the community.
- Donate: Visit beverlysheartyslice.com to make a donation or invest in the cause. You can also organize a supply drive at your church, school, or business.
Contact Information
For more details on how you can get involved, visit:
- Website: beverlysheartyslice.com
- Facebook: Beverly’s Hearty Slice
- Phone: 270-903-4682
VIDEO INTERVIEW LINK: https://youtu.be/v8L_V-n0G-s
Written by
Randy Lanham
Volunteer Owensboro
