We’re excited to share some big news from our Louisville Chapter. Kim Holsclaw, Managing Director, has been named a Kentucky Colonel, one of the highest honors given by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

The title of Kentucky Colonel is awarded by the Governor of Kentucky to individuals recognized for service and leadership in their communities. It reflects a long tradition of people who show up for others and help strengthen life across the state and beyond.

“This prestigious recognition reflects Kim’s noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service and contributions to the community,” said Brent Glass, Vice President of the Midwest Region. “We’re proud of Kim’s accomplishment.”

For Kim, that spirit of service has guided more than a decade with Blessings in a Backpack, where she helps ensure kids have food to take home on the weekends.

A Nomination Rooted in Shared Work

Kim was nominated by a fellow Kentucky Colonel she met through the Good Works grant program. Their connection grew through shared work supporting children and families across Kentucky.

“I was deeply honored to be nominated by a fellow Kentucky Colonel whom I have had the privilege of working with through their Good Works grant program,” Kim said. “Through our partnership, they became familiar with the work we do to address childhood hunger and understood the impact that our organization has on local children and families.”

As a lifelong Kentuckian, Kim sees the honor as something that reflects a broader community effort.

“Kentucky is home to so many generous people and organizations that work tirelessly to strengthen our communities,” she said. “I am proud to be an advocate for our state and the children and families who call it home.”

A Decade of Making a Difference Locally

Kim has spent more than ten years working with Blessings in a Backpack, building strong relationships with schools, volunteers, donors, and community partners who help make weekend food possible for kids.

“Receiving this honor means a great deal to me,” she said. “Every success we have achieved has been the result of a community coming together to ensure kids have food on the weekends.”

She added that the recognition belongs to everyone who helps make the work possible.

“This award reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers, board members, donors, school partners, and everyone who believes that no child should have to worry about where their next meal will come from.”

Beyond The Award

For Kim, the work has always come back to impact, not recognition.

“The real reward has never been recognition; it has always been about making my community a better place to live,” she said.

She also spoke about how often childhood hunger goes unseen.

“Hunger is often a hidden issue, and many children and families struggle in silence. Admitting you’re hungry can be embarrassing, especially for a child, which is why programs like Blessings in a Backpack are so important. We work to ensure children have access to food in a way that is discreet, compassionate, and dignified.”

Kim hopes this recognition helps bring more awareness to that reality and encourages others to get involved.

“I hope this recognition brings even more awareness to the issue of childhood food insecurity and inspires others to get involved in supporting hungry children in their community. Kentucky has a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors, and I am proud to be part of that legacy.”