The project recognized 144 individuals for their commitment, though six asked to remain anonymous. These individuals were identified through a public nomination process. The project began in August 2011. More than 5,000 nominations were received during a five month process from late August through January which sought input from all areas of the regional community. While people throughout the state were identified, the majority of nominations were from a 10 county area in Central Kentucky: Anderson, Bourbon, Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Jessamine, Madison, Montgomery, Scott and Woodford. Each of these communities identified trusted leaders who get things done.

 

The purpose of the Bluegrass Community Connectors Project is to identify great civic connectors in the Bluegrass region who make significant things happen in our communities. Bringing these individuals together can create the synergy necessary to advance our common good like never before.

 

“Change can only come about by a committed group of citizens,” said United Way President Bill Farmer. “We want these individuals to know their commitment to our community is important to all of us. And we want them to have the opportunity to get to know each other – to build relationships that can result in true change in our community.”

 

Connectors had the opportunity to meet for the first time as a group on Tuesday, June 12. These Connectors discussed the importance of their recognition, issues facing the community and how they, as recognized leaders, can work together to improve Central Kentucky.

 

“When you put smart people together, when you put people who are doers and active leaders together, great things happen,” said Lyle Hanna, president of Hanna Resource Group and a volunteer leader in the Bluegrass Community Connector Project. “When you put one and one together, often you get three.”

 

The project is made possible through the generous support of AARP, PNC, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Trapp Communications, KEMI, Columbia Gas of Kentucky, Kentucky Eagle Beer, Scott United, Herald-Leader, Insight Communications, WKYT, WTVQ, WLEX, Georgetown New Graphic, Smiley Pete Publishing, Kentucky Forward, and WUKY.