For the first time in their over 26-year history, MentorKids Kentucky is down to only eight children on their waitlist, with a goal of zero by week’s end. This waitlist consists of youth from single-parent and non-traditional homes in Daviess County, who are waiting to be paired with Christian adults who hope to make a difference in the lives of these children by using their time and resources. Independence Bank will be sponsoring a Moonlite catered banquet Tuesday night at 6 p.m. at HIS Church, to publicly challenge the community to Live 685 and give of their time, rather than from their wallets.
“Live 685 is just a challenge that MentorKids Kentucky is making to our community to live 685
from Psalm 6:85,” said Executive Director Berly Sullivan, adding that the verse is a reminder to “be a father to the fatherless,” which is the driving mission behind MentorKids. “The event is just a platform to the community to bring the vital work that MentorKids does to light.”
Sullivan said she hopes by publicly sharing and promoting the important work MentorKids is doing in the community, she can also dispel some of the myths and stereotypes.
“These sweet kids that have no voice, I want to shift the paradigm,” Sullivan said. “This is not the last stop before they head off to juvenile detention, this is the first step in prevention. I want other single parents out there to see what a great resource this is.”
One of the reasons Sullivan said it is vital that volunteers pour into the MentorKids community, is the unique roots that so many children have established in Owensboro.
“That makes what we do so much more important because these kids we are coming alongside and supporting will be the next mayor or pediatrician,” Sullivan said, “Regardless of what profession they choose, odds are they will be doing it in Owensboro. By supporting our mission, you are investing in the great city that we love.”
Kentucky Wesleyan College President Bart Darrell will be the guest speaker for Tuesday’s banquet, and Sullivan said she is grateful for his humble service to MentorKids.
“Bart Darrell is probably the most private public person I have ever met,” Sullivan said. “I appreciate him opening up his life and sharing his story to help MentorKids Kentucky.”
Sullivan said Mentor Kids also plans to launch their next event at the banquet, which is a Tough Mudder style rugged race that will take place in July at Diamond Lake Resort.
While Sullivan said the banquet Tuesday evening is complimentary due to the support from their generous sponsor, she said there will be an “ask” at the end of the evening — but it will not be for money.
“First and foremost we need their time,” Sullivan said. “One hour, one week, for one year. We also need volunteers at our STAR program — I would love for people to randomly volunteer for that. I don’t want people to think it’s going to cost them money, I want them to see our amazing kiddos and thank God that he has Mentor Kids in Kentucky.”
There are still a few spots left to attend the free banquet Tuesday night. Spots may be reserved by calling 270-926-6893. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the event begins at 6 p.m. at HIS Church, formerly River City Church, located at 4810 Frederica Street.
