UC honored during 28th Annual Governor’ Service Awards

Gov. Andy Beshear recognized exceptional volunteerism and service contributions at the 28th Annual Governor’s Service Awards located at The Foundry in Frankfort Tuesday, including handing out an award to a University of the Cumberlands (UC) program.

“Today, we recognize selfless individuals and organizations that have made a significant impact in our communities,” Beshear said Tuesday. “Even small acts of kindness can have a powerful effect by showing what is possible. Every Kentuckian has a unique talent that can be shared.”

Serve Kentucky, an agency within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, coordinates the annual awards ceremony, which included 14 individual and 16 group awards.

Among the group awards was a Faith-Based Service Award to the University of the Cumberlands Shoes 4 the Soul event.

Each year, as a new school year begins, UC students and staff assist hundreds of children by providing new shoes, socks, hygiene items and backpacks filled with school supplies at an event called Shoes 4 the Soul.

Started in 2011, Shoes 4 the Soul has positively impacted thousands of children in the Whitley County area. Based on Christ’s actions in John 13, UC students, faculty and staff wash the feet of children and fit them with new shoes and socks. Children are identified through school family resource centers, with sizes provided to the university. UC students also serve as guides and friends to the elementary students.

On Sept. 15, under the leadership of Cumberlands’ Campus Ministries Team, Shoes 4 the Soul celebrated its 12th anniversary with 300 volunteers. Thanks to significant donor and alumni support, 600 sets of little feet were washed by UC student volunteers led by Jesus’ example.

All 600 smiling local elementary school children received new shoes, socks and backpacks, enhancing their readiness for the school year. UC student volunteers, once recipients of the event, now help to make the experience as special for others as it was for them.

The Shoes 4 the Soul event at UC continues to be a powerful tradition, showcasing the institution’s dedication to community service and well-being of local children. The impressive numbers and involvement of UC students, faculty and staff highlights the enduring significance of this annual event.

Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander said he’s inspired by those who light the world with their service: “From foster care to after-school tutoring, hunger relief to mobile dentistry, conflict resolution and so much more, you make a tremendous difference in the lives of Kentuckians. Congratulations to the class of 2023 and thank you for your service.”