Owensboro, Kentucky, is home to a staggering number of nonprofits — estimated at over 650 in Daviess County alone. These organizations span a wide array of missions, from hospitals and churches to schools, social services, social clubs, and foundations. Each exists to fulfill a purpose, addressing the diverse needs of our community. While it’s hard to pinpoint why our county has so many, what’s undeniable is the vital role they play in enriching and supporting lives.
As the leader of two direct-service nonprofits, I’ve learned how critical collaboration is to our success. These organizations are more than colleagues — they are lifelines. Foundations and funding agencies, for instance, are essential for helping St. Benedict’s and the Daniel Pitino Shelter maintain operations and implement projects. Without these partnerships, meeting our goals would be exponentially harder, if not impossible.
I’m profoundly grateful to be part of such an inspiring network of nonprofits in Owensboro. The resilience, passion, and creativity demonstrated by these organizations energize me every day. Despite the challenges we face, the ability to rally together toward shared goals magnifies our collective impact. Collaboration, not competition, is what enables us to serve our community effectively.
Still, no nonprofit is exempt from the constant struggle of securing funding. Some organizations can bill programs like Medicaid or Medicare, but many of us rely solely on the generosity of the community. Fundraising is a nonstop effort, and we depend on our supporters to attend events, donate money or goods, and volunteer their time.
In a small city like Owensboro, this presents unique challenges. The donor pool is limited, and multiple nonprofits often depend on the same individuals and businesses for help. This creates a delicate balance: we must compete for resources while still finding ways to collaborate. Donors, volunteers, and advocates are the backbone of our work, yet they are finite resources.
The situation becomes even more complex when considering donor preferences. For example, someone may feel strongly about supporting addiction recovery but not homelessness — or vice versa. With six homeless shelters in Owensboro, including the two I oversee, the support available can be fragmented as individuals focus on the specific causes closest to their hearts, such as assisting families, men, or those battling addiction. This naturally narrows an already limited donor pool.
Additionally, nonprofits face challenges like donor fatigue and competition from larger, more established organizations that can overshadow smaller or newer ones. Sustaining support requires constant innovation in outreach and fundraising to keep donors engaged without overwhelming them.
How donors can make the greatest impact
For donors, the abundance of nonprofits can feel overwhelming — how can you give without feeling spread too thin? The answer lies in thoughtful and strategic giving:
- Find your passion: Focus on causes that resonate with you, whether it’s homelessness, education, healthcare, or animal welfare. Aligning your support with your values ensures a more fulfilling experience.
- Do your research: Learn about the nonprofits in your chosen area. Understanding their mission, transparency, and impact helps you make informed decisions.
- Consider recurring donations: Smaller, regular gifts often have a greater cumulative impact than a single large donation. They also help nonprofits plan more effectively.
- Volunteer your time: If financial contributions aren’t feasible, volunteering can be equally valuable. It builds connections and provides direct support.
- Think beyond money: Supporting fundraisers, donating goods, and spreading the word about a nonprofit’s mission are all meaningful ways to make a difference.
By giving intentionally, donors can make a profound impact while staying focused on what matters most to them.
Despite the challenges, Owensboro’s nonprofit community thrives on creativity, determination, and shared purpose. It is our camaraderie, mutual respect, and collaboration that allow us to weather the toughest storms and create meaningful change. Together, we weave a tapestry of care that strengthens the very fabric of our community.
I am deeply grateful for every supporter of St. Benedict’s and the Daniel Pitino Shelter. Your generosity and encouragement inspire me to be the best leader I can be. To fellow nonprofit leaders, I admire and appreciate you. I understand the daily struggles you face, and I thank you for persevering even in difficult times. Please know that you are not alone — reach out if you ever need to vent or share ideas.
Finally, to all supporters, donors, and volunteers: I encourage you to visit us, meet with me, and deepen your understanding of how your contributions create a meaningful impact. Whether you support our shelters or any other nonprofit, I urge you to connect with the leadership of those organizations. Your decisions, sacrifices, and compassion ensure that together, we can continue making a difference. God bless, and thank you for all that you do.
