Kentucky Humanities believes in the power of storytelling, history, and culture to educate, inspire, and strengthen our communities. The humanities connect us to our past, help us understand our present, and shape our future. With your support, we can continue to bring engaging programs, cultural initiatives, and educational resources to all Kentuckians.
Our Evolving Programs: Strengthening Kentucky Humanities for the Future
Kentucky Humanities is entering a new chapter as federal support for state humanities councils, distributed through the National Endowment for the Humanities, becomes increasingly uncertain. While we remain committed to Telling Kentucky’s Story and continue to advocate for federal support, we must also plan for greater financial independence.
After a year of review, we will:
Core Programs Moving Forward
These programs reflect the heart of our mission. They engage communities and foster connection and civic pride across the Commonwealth.
Programs Being Redesigned
These programs will be unified under a Literary Arts Program focused on sustainability, collaboration, and community ownership.
Retiring Programs
We will fulfill existing commitments and honor our partnerships as these programs conclude. We are grateful to the scholars, educators, and communities who have made this work meaningful over the years.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
Kentucky Humanities is moving forward with intention, focusing on core programs to build a more resilient future. With the support of our partners and communities, we will continue to Tell Kentucky’s Story for generations to come.
Funding and support for the humanities are crucial for preserving Kentucky’s unique heritage, fostering critical thinking, and providing enriching experiences for people of all ages. Advocating for Kentucky Humanities means ensuring that schools, libraries, museums, and community organizations have the resources they need to continue their vital work.
Contact Your Representatives
Our representatives in Washington, D.C., need to hear from their constituents about the importance of funding for humanities programs. Reach out to your federal delegates and express your support for continued investment in the National Endowment for the Humanities and Kentucky Humanities. A list of Kentucky Senators and Representatives is below.
Stay Informed
Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media to stay updated on advocacy opportunities, upcoming events, and news related to the humanities in Kentucky.
Share Your Story
Personal stories have power. If a Kentucky Humanities program has impacted your life or your community, share your experience. Your testimony can be a compelling argument for continued support.
Donate
Financial contributions allow us to sustain and expand our programs. Consider making a donation to directly support our mission.
Engage Your Community
Organize Kentucky Reads book discussions, host Kentucky Chautauqua® or Speakers Bureau events, or participate in local humanities projects. Raising awareness within your community helps build a stronger network of advocates.
Together, we can ensure that the humanities continue to thrive in Kentucky. Your voice, your actions, and your support make a difference. Join us in advocating for the history, literature, and culture that enrich our Commonwealth.
George Coon Public Library
Princeton, Caldwell County
Prime Time Family Reading is a six-week literacy program for children and the significant adults in their lives. Families are provided with a meal at no cost and receive 11 free books to keep at the end of the program. NEH support is vital to this program which has reached over 16,000 Kentuckians since 2004.
"When it comes to visible, real time improvement on the children’s communication skills, critical thinking skills, and reading skills, we have had the privilege of witnessing that each and every week of every Prime Time program we have been a part of these 9 years."
YesArts!
Frankfort, Franklin County
The Youth Innovation in America (YIRA) grant took place at 6 sites in 5 counties over the course of 2023-24. In conjunction with the Smithsonian's Museum on Main Street initiative, this project awarded $1,000 dollars to community youth organizations to address problems they see within their hometowns. NEH support is vital to programs like YIRA and Museum on Main Street.
"We loved hosting this exhibit. Because of our involvement with the YIRA program, we enhanced the presence of the Smithsonian in our schools and community."
Hindman Settlement School
Hindman, Knott County
In the wake of the 2022 flooding in Eastern Kentucky, the NEH provided grant funds for multiple cultural institutions including the Hindman Settlement School and Appalshop. Kentucky Humanities utilized NEH money to develop a series of disaster prevention and relief webinars attended by over 200 participants in 22 states.
“Excellent presentation! A ton of great information that will aid in developing, maintaining, and updating a disaster recovery plan. I would recommend these sessions to everyone—no matter the organization. Thank you!”
Menifee Central School
Frenchburg, Menifee County
Kentucky Humanities at the Schools brings children's authors to elementary schools all across the state to discuss their work and life as an author. Authors do a meet and greet with each student after the program and sign free copies of their book for each participant.
"My students loved the visit. They commented that this was the first "celebrity" that they had ever met. I had students begin to write and illustrate their own books."
Joseph-Beth Booksellers
Lexington, Fayette County
The Kentucky Book Festival takes place each fall in Lexington, Kentucky. Authors from all across the nation come to Kentucky to share their work, discuss literature, and share their love of reading. Opportunities for children include book giveaways, story time, face painting, and more. NEH support is vital for the festival, which reaches Kentuckians of all ages.
"I absolutely love the Kentucky Book Festival! I think y'all do an amazing job and do the absolute best you can. Everything is so organized and well-thought-out. It was well-organized and well-attended. Great job done by organizers and volunteers!"