Community Engagement

Community Engagement at UKAD

University of Kentucky student-athletes are encouraged to actively engage with our local, regional, national, and international communities. By giving back, they can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and enhance the community’s overall well-being. UK Athletics has strategically developed partnerships aimed at empowering student-athletes to contribute and participate in impactful community engagement initiatives.

Leveraging data on student-athletes’ majors, career aspirations, and personal interests, we tailor community service opportunities to align with each athlete’s passions. This personalized approach has led to nearly doubling logged community service hours this year. As athletes document their service, they not only enrich their resumes but also position themselves for prestigious awards. Community service is a key component of the Frank G. Ham Award, the highest honor within UK Athletics, with a total of 414 recipients since 1999.

Breakfast with Santa

Each December, a group of UK student-athletes attend this annual UK Children’s Hospital event, where volunteers spend their time visiting and eating breakfast with children and their families, helping Santa Clause distribute presents. Afterwards, volunteers spend time visiting with patients at the hospital whose physical conditions do not allow them to attend the breakfast.

Salvation Army

During the holiday season, student-athletes volunteer their time ringing bells for the “Red Kettle Campaign” to help raise money for the Lexington Salvation Army. UK Athletics has won the Fayette County trophy for “most time given” 7 of the last 9 years.

School Speakers

Student-athletes visit a number of local schools speaking to children on a variety of topics, including the importance of an education, good decision-making skill, and setting goals. Student-athletes also spend countless hours volunteering for after school mentor/reading programs, including the annual Fayette County Read Across America celebration.

Alumni Wildcats in the Community

Current Wildcats aren’t the only people making a difference, though. Many former UK athletes still embody the servant-leader mentality UK Athletics helps instill in them. Read more below about alumni serving in the community.