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At the Fayette Community Foundation, we believe everyone has the power to make a difference. You don’t need to be wealthy, have a fancy title, or know the “right” people. You just need to care about your community and be willing to get involved – and we know folks in Fayette County show up for one another. Whether your passion is the arts, education, healthcare, or simply making Fayette County a better place to live, we’re here to help you turn that passion into action.

Volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways to stay connected to the community around you. It’s easy to get caught up in our routines—going to work, running errands, spending time with family—and not realize how many people in our own neighborhoods are quietly working to make things better. 

When you volunteer, you step outside your comfort zone and meet people you might not normally cross paths with. You might find yourself packing food boxes alongside a retired teacher, planting flowers with a high school student, or helping at an event run by a local business owner. Those small moments of connection remind us that we’re all part of something bigger. It’s even proven that getting outside of our normal routine and volunteering a few precious hours of your free time is good for your own mental health!

Volunteering also changes your perspective. You start to see your town through new eyes—recognizing not only the challenges but the good that’s happening every day. You see how many local organizations rely on volunteers to keep their doors open, run programs, and help others. From animal shelters and youth programs to arts organizations and food pantries, there are countless ways to share your time and skills. All you need to do is find an organization that fits your special interests and ask what they need. 

We know it’s hard to put yourself out there – isn’t it easier to be the one being asked instead of making yourself vulnerable and doing the asking of where you can help? The truth is, many volunteer organizations don’t have the staff, budget, or bandwidth to advertise when they need help. That means people who would love to lend a hand might not even realize there’s a need. If you’re eager to get involved, don’t wait to be asked. Take the initiative—find an organization that aligns with your interests or values and simply reach out. Ask what kind of help they could use. Sometimes, the answer is as simple as “come help for an hour,” and that hour can make a real difference. 

If you’re not sure where to begin, we’ve made it easy to explore your options. Visit the Grantee page on our website at givetofcf.com/grants/grantees/ to see a list of local nonprofits and community groups the Foundation has supported. These organizations are doing important work right here in Fayette County—and many would be thrilled to have new volunteers join them. 

Making a difference doesn’t always mean writing a check. Sometimes, it means showing up, rolling up your sleeves, and being part of something that makes life better for everyone. Every act of service, no matter how small, helps build a stronger, more connected community. It’s good for Fayette County and it’s good for you.

If you’ve been looking for a way to get involved, this is your sign. Fayette County needs people like you—people who care, who want to help, and who believe that together, we can make our community thrive.

– Abigail Roszell, FCF Executive Director