April 23-29 is National Volunteer Week, a time for us to recognize the people who donate their time and energy to charitable causes and non-profit organizations. Many people who lead Louisville-area non-profit organizations have appeared as guests on MoxieTalk, a one-on-one, half-hour interview program that is available online and through podcast as well as MetroTV, WBNA21, and KET.
Among the guests who have made an impact on Louisville and the state of Kentucky through their work with charitable causes:
Rebecca Eaves, president, The Arrow Fund. The Arrow Fund’s mission is to increase public awareness of animal cruelty by “providing veterinary care and support to animal victims of extreme torture, abuse, and neglect and encouraging vigorous criminal prosecution of animal abusers.” Eaves is a longtime animal rescuer and activist. Her desire to help animals began as a child when a little dog was her only friend. Her MoxieTalk interview is one of the show’s most-watched. Abby Drane, president/CEO, Uspiritus. Drane leads the organization founded in 2012 when Bellewood Home for Children and Brooklawn Child and Family Services merged. Uspiritus provides care for vulnerable youth and families, which takes an extra dose of passion and motivation for the employees and volunteers there. Drane’s childhood fuels the love for the work she does today to help kids and families in need. “There’s something about her that’s remarkably intriguing,” Jacobs said.
Cynthia Knapek, past executive director, Brightside, Inc., President of the Leadership Louisville Center, and an active civic leader in Louisville for 20 years. Brightside’s mission is to “unite people in clean and green activities to beautify the city and foster community pride.” Knapek was the organization’s executive director from 2003-2010. She also led the community-wide public art project “Gallopalooza,” which raised more than $800,000 for Brightside and other causes.
Terry Taylor, retired executive director, Interfaith Paths to Peace. This organization “works to foster peace, increase interfaith understanding, and cultivate inter-religious cooperation through education, programs, and events.” As executive director, Terry played an essential role in Louisville’s designation as a Compassionate City.
