Bluegrass Domestic Violence Program
By Jessica Ballard

In April, we were graced to share in a volunteer day with Eastern Kentucky University’s Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity. These enthusiastic students came out to the farm ready to work!  They weeded, mulched, and planted in our healing garden, barely stopping for a break the whole time. It was clear that they were used to working together and were very supportive of each other, talking about life, their collegiate goals and plans for the future.  I was very impressed with these kind and dedicated young men and women.

I have to say, we’ve had a number of APO volunteer groups out at shelter and they are always such a joy. We also recently had the opportunity to work with a group of young ladies from Alpha Phi Omega at the University of Kentucky and they, too were a fabulous group to work with.  They helped us plant trees in our micro-forest.  They also helped weed and mulch around new shrubs and wildflowers.  All volunteers were positive, hardworking, and engaged with families at our facility. We were happy to include lots of playful fun in our work day. It was hard to believe we accomplished so much in such a short amount of time!

I am thankful to know that so many young folks are enhancing their educational experience with a priority on community and service projects!  Thanks so much to Alpha Phi Omega for supporting BDVP!