Randy Lanham is a man who wears many hats. Musician, radio personality, music instructor, television host, and ambassador are just a few of the titles he holds. “Involved” would be an understatement at best. Lanham, a pillar within the community, and the city of Owensboro, has a vision to serve.
Co-founder of Volunteer Owensboro, as well as Executive Director, Lanham shares what inspired him to give back and look beyond the “blinders” that stood in his path.
“In 2007, Wayne Morris, a good friend of mine, and I began volunteering within the community. We had begun traveling to nursing homes and hospitals playing music. An opportunity with Hospice, enabled me to start to see the need all around me,” Lanham said, adding that he had what he refers to as a “God” moment. “A patient who was completely unresponsive began to cry and interact with us during a song we shared; it was absolutely unbelievable.”
It was that experience that motivated Lanham to begin “connecting” people, in turn aiding those in need.
Since 2011, Volunteer Owensboro has worked diligently to provide local non-profits a voice. Nearly 65 different organizations are listed on their website, divided into categories. This resource is both beneficial for those looking to volunteer and for non-profits who need exposure.
“We [Volunteer Owensboro] offer various resources to bring these non-profits to the forefront. Whether it be video promotion or PSA we have the tools to help these groups succeed as much as possible,” Lanham said.
One of Volunteer Owensboro’s biggest and most beloved annual fundraisers, which aids the existing support and resources they provide, is the Lanham Brother’s Jamboree held each December. Widely successful, the yearly event is a night of fun for the whole family.
“My brother Barry and I started this show around several years ago, and it’s just grown every year,” Lanham said. “It’s a true variety show, which incorporates comedy, music, and dance. We strive to keep it entertaining, and it truly appeals to all ages.”
The Lanham Brothers Jamboree is held annually at Diamond Lake Resort, and admission is donation-based, with a suggested donation of $12 for adults and $6 for children. This year’s show will be held on Dec. 8 at 7:00 p.m. Lanham refers to the event as the perfect opportunity to contribute.
“This event in a sense helps us continue to help others,” Lanham said.
An impressive line-up is set to perform at this year’s jamboree, including local favorites King’s Highway and Cathy and Tommy Mullins. Owensboro’s own Katie Bouchard, the reigning Miss Kentucky, is also scheduled to be a special guest.
Lanham credits a phenomenal group of sponsors for supporting the event and contributing to its success.
“We have some incredible sponsors and we owe a great deal of thanks to them,” Lanham said.
This year’s sponsors include Modern Welding, Diamond Lake Resort, Old National Bank, Kenergy and Claud and Karen Porter.
“When simply put, it all boils down to this — love God, and love others,” Lanham said. “I think people sometimes have a lot of fear going into how they can help, but they have the desire to do more. We exist to bridge that gap — we are called to serve. Our dream here at Volunteer Owensboro is to put ourselves out of business.”
