Lexington KY, December 2, 2025
On December 2, the Bluegrass Gives event raised over $3 million for nonprofits across Central and Appalachia Kentucky. With over 12,000 individual donors and 201 participating organizations, the campaign showcased the community’s dedication to supporting local causes. Organized by the Blue Grass Community Foundation, this online giving initiative eliminates red tape to foster philanthropic spirit, with funds benefiting education, health, and environmental efforts.
Bluegrass Gives Raises Over $3 Million for Lexington KY Nonprofits
Lexington, Kentucky – On December 2, 2025, the Bluegrass Gives ‘Giving Tuesday’ event successfully raised over $3 million for local nonprofits across Central and Appalachia Kentucky. This annual online giving campaign, formerly known as the GoodGiving Challenge, took place from 6 a.m. to midnight, with donors contributing to 201 participating organizations.
The success of Bluegrass Gives highlights the resilience and collective spirit of the Lexington community. By eliminating excessive red tape and fostering personal initiative, local organizers and volunteers have created an environment where charitable giving thrives. This year’s event exemplifies how focused efforts and strategic partnerships can lead to significant outcomes, empowering residents to support causes that matter to them.
Event Highlights
- Record-Breaking Participation: The event saw a significant increase in donor engagement, with over 12,000 individuals contributing to the cause.
- Matching Funds and Prizes: Generous donors and sponsors provided matching funds and prizes throughout the day, amplifying the impact of individual contributions.
- Community Impact: The funds raised will support a wide range of initiatives, including education, health, arts, and environmental conservation, benefiting communities throughout the region.
Background
Bluegrass Gives, hosted by the Blue Grass Community Foundation in partnership with Smiley Pete Publishing, has been a cornerstone of regional philanthropy since 2011. Over the years, the event has raised more than $26 million for local nonprofits, fostering a culture of generosity and community support.
The 2025 event marked the 15th annual Bluegrass Gives, with a goal to raise $3 million for nonprofits in Central and Appalachia Kentucky. The success of this year’s campaign underscores the community’s commitment to supporting local organizations and highlights the growing impact of collective giving.
Looking Ahead
As Bluegrass Gives continues to evolve, organizers plan to introduce new initiatives and partnerships to further enhance the event’s reach and effectiveness. The foundation remains dedicated to empowering nonprofits and donors alike, ensuring that the spirit of generosity thrives in the Bluegrass region.
Key Features of Bluegrass Gives 2025
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | December 2, 2025 |
| Duration | 6 a.m. to midnight |
| Participating Nonprofits | 201 organizations |
| Total Funds Raised | Over $3 million |
| Matching Funds and Prizes | Provided by generous donors and sponsors throughout the day |
| Community Impact | Supports education, health, arts, and environmental initiatives across the region |
FAQ
What is Bluegrass Gives?
Bluegrass Gives is an annual online giving event that makes supporting local nonprofits easy and fun. Hosted by the Blue Grass Community Foundation in partnership with Smiley Pete Publishing, this collective giving campaign has helped tens of thousands of donors invest more than $26 million in hundreds of local charities since 2011.
When does Bluegrass Gives take place?
Bluegrass Gives is held annually on Giving Tuesday, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. In 2025, the event took place on December 2.
How can I participate in Bluegrass Gives?
Donors can participate by visiting the Bluegrass Gives website on Giving Tuesday to make online contributions to participating nonprofits.
Which organizations can participate in Bluegrass Gives?
Eligible organizations must be registered 501(c)(3) public charities located within the Blue Grass Community Foundation’s service area, which includes counties such as Anderson, Bath, Bourbon, and others.
How are donations used?
Donations support a wide range of initiatives, including education, health, arts, and environmental conservation, benefiting communities throughout Central and Appalachia Kentucky.
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