Danielle Tharp Clore
5 Ways Your Generosity is a Powerful Investment in Community
For many, the holiday season is a time of gratitude and giving. Beyond the feel-good factor, donating to charitable nonprofits is a powerful investment in your community. Here are five ways your contributions generate lasting change during the holidays and throughout the year.
Help Build a Stronger Local Economy
Nonprofits aren’t just charitable organizations—they’re economic drivers. Nationwide, nonprofits employ 12.8 million people, representing nearly 10% of the private-sector workforce. In Kentucky, nonprofits are the fourth-largest private-sector employers, contributing $27.4 billion annually to the state economy. Only 5% of people believe they directly benefit from nonprofits—in reality, 100% of us benefit from programs and resources these organizations provide. When you donate, you sustain jobs, support local businesses and strengthen your community’s economic foundation.
Help Solve Problems at Their Roots
Though charitable donations have seen a decline in recent years, needs remain strong. Nonprofits tackle systemic challenges like poverty by driving innovative solutions and advocating for policy changes. In 2022, nonprofits contributed $1.4 trillion to the U.S. GDP, demonstrating their essential role in society. Donations aren’t just quick fixes—they’re long-term investments in your community.
Provide Critical Safety Nets
Nonprofits are often the first responders for those facing homelessness, hunger, or abuse. Feeding Kentucky reports that 710,000 Kentuckians face hunger. Over 15,000 individuals utilized services through domestic violence programs in Kentucky last year. Your donations ensure these essential organizations continue to meet urgent needs.
Support Enrichment Programs
Nonprofits enhance quality of life through education and the arts. Kentucky’s creative industries added $4.9 billion to the state economy, while enriching lives and fostering innovation. Donations help ensure that everyone can access these transformative programs.
Strengthen Community Connections
Nonprofits foster a sense of belonging by uniting people to volunteer, engage, and support shared goals. Research shows that communities with active nonprofits experience higher rates of civic engagement and volunteerism. By donating your time and skills, you strengthen the bonds that help your community thrive.
Helping This Holiday Season
Giving to nonprofits doesn’t always mean writing a big check. Here are other ways to make a difference:
- Donate funds: Every dollar counts.
- Donate in-kind items: Check with your favorite nonprofits for most-needed items.
- Volunteer your time: Whether preparing meals, mentoring a child, sitting with someone who’s ill – your support matters.
- Spread the word: Share your favorite nonprofit’s mission on social media to help them find new champions.
- Consider a recurring donation: Regular, year-round donations help nonprofits plan for ongoing expenses.
This holiday season and throughout the year, every act of generosity helps create lasting change. Supporting mental health organizations, shelters for the unhoused, arts programs and other worthy causes strengthens the resources that keep your community thriving. If you need help finding a great cause, check out the Kentucky Nonprofit Network member directory (members.kynonprofits.org/nonprofit-members). We encourage you to research their websites, social media or use tools like Candid’s GuideStar (www.guidestar.org). Let’s turn holiday cheer into meaningful action and build a stronger future together.
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Danielle Clore biography
Danielle Tharp Clore is the executive director/CEO of Kentucky Nonprofit Network. Prior to founding KNN in 2002, Danielle held leadership positions at the Commonwealth Fund for KET, Eastern Kentucky University, Special Olympics Kentucky and Christian Care Communities. She was selected in 2017 by Women Leading Kentucky as a recipient of the Martha Layne Collins Leadership Award, and was a 2015 finalist for the Excellence in Advocacy Award by the Professional Women in Advocacy Conference, Washington DC. She was recognized by the Lane Report as a Top Woman in Business in 2019 and by the Kentucky Gazette as a 2020 Notable Woman in Kentucky Politics and Government. Danielle is a 2012 graduate of Leadership Kentucky, holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Transylvania University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Kentucky Martin School of Public Administration. Danielle’s current community service work includes public policy committee member, National Council of Nonprofits and advisory board member of First Nonprofits. A life-long Kentuckian, Danielle is a native of Bardstown, grew up in Pineville and now resides in Lexington with her husband and two children.
Kentucky Nonprofit Network, Inc.
PO Box 24362
Lexington, KY, 40524
(859) 963-3203
(859) 396-7024 (cell)
