Episode 1. Stan Curtis – Founder, Kentucky Harvest

Stan Curtis inspired and empowered people to help those who can’t help themselves.

Born in 1944, Curtis significantly impacted various charitable initiatives, most notably through food distribution to needy people.

In December of 1986, Stan experienced a life-changing moment. While standing in a cafeteria line, he imagined workers delivering food that would otherwise go to waste and giving it to those in need.

So, in 1987, he founded Kentucky Harvest, which collects surplus food from restaurants, grocery stores, and other sources and distributes it to the hungry.

Under Curtis’ leadership, Stan saw Kentucky Harvest as an opportunity both for those who need help and those who want to help by providing millions of meals to those in need in the Louisville area.

Kentucky Harvest proved so successful that he founded USA Harvest to collect leftover food from restaurants and groceries and deliver them to shelters and soup kitchens nationwide!

Stan Curtis was a well-known philanthropist and businessman in Louisville, Kentucky, recognized for his extensive efforts in combating hunger.

Building on the success of Kentucky Harvest, Curtis founded USA Harvest, a national organization with a similar mission.

It expanded the concept of food rescue and distribution across the United States, substantially impacting hunger relief!

Curtis also founded the “Blessings in a Backpack” initiative, which provides food to elementary school children over weekends, ensuring that they do not go hungry when school meals are unavailable.

Curtis received numerous accolades for his charitable work, including recognition from various local and national organizations.

Dr. Norman Vincent Peale honored his work, and President Bill Clinton awarded him the President’s Volunteer Action Award.

His dedication to hunger relief earned him a respected place in the community.

However, Curtis’ later years were overshadowed by legal troubles.

In 2012, he was indicted on federal charges, including mail fraud, money laundering, and filing false tax returns related to his charitable organizations.

He pleaded guilty in 2013 and was sentenced to two years in prison.

These legal issues complicated his legacy, juxtaposing his significant charitable contributions with personal controversy.