The days of summer are coming to a close and school is just around the corner. As families begin to make the transition in their schedules, they must also do so in their budgets. Heading back to school comes with a cost. In addition to school supplies, children also need new clothes. The Alma Randolph Charitable Foundation’s mission is to make this necessity a little easier for families in our community. This local non-profit organization provides children in need with back-to-school clothing.
The Alma Randolph Charitable Foundation was created in 1993 with the sole purpose of clothing disadvantaged children in the Owensboro-Daviess County area. Now, the ARCF focuses solely on clothing disadvantaged children in Owensboro-Daviess County. The foundation’s ultimate goal is to provide each child with a $100 voucher. However, based on the number of referrals and the funds that are available, the value of each voucher may vary. All of the families who are selected to take part in the back-to-school shopping event are referred by local agencies and schools. Most children are able to purchase several outfits, undergarments, and shoes with their shopping voucher when used with store discounts, and sales. Not only does this shopping trip provide clothing for the cold winter months, it provides confidence for the school year. This program enhances each child’s self-esteem and allows them to return to school with dignity, and focus on learning. Giving a child the opportunity to purchase new clothes not only communicates that school is important but, most of all, that they are important.
Alma Randolph, the founder of the charitable organization, grew up in Ohio County. Like many local families, her mother struggled to support Alma and her siblings. Alma can still recall experiences from childhood like having to use a “free lunch” card and feeling inferior to her peers. With a dream to become a missionary to the poor, Alma decided she could make a difference. In 1993, she created a non-profit organization that would give other children opportunities she did not have. Alma credits her mother with raising her in a loving home and encouraging her to pursue her dreams. She says her mom set an example of determination that inspired her to accomplish what exists today.
Since 1993, The Alma Randolph Charitable Foundation has invested $1,095,800 million dollars in our community, providing funding to agencies and shopping vouchers for approximately 14,380 children. The foundation is operated by volunteers and is governed by a board of volunteer directors. They have no paid staff, and Alma is not compensated for her time, talent or services to the ARCF. The foundation does not receive any federal, state, or local government funding.
The generosity of Owensboro, Evansville, and the surrounding counties is what makes the back-to-school shopping event such a success. In addition to individual donations, the organization has a ladies luncheon and a fall fundraising event.
This year, The Alma Randolph Charitable Foundation and Owensboro Grain have partnered to host Leigh Anne Tuohy on August 22, 2015 at the Owensboro Convention Center. The event is co-sponsored by MPD. The opening of the show will include the 200-voice children’s choir, Musick Studios, and a performance by Alma Randolph. Leigh Anne Tuohy is the woman whose story of love and generosity inspired the movie The Blind Side. Leigh Anne Tuohy will inspire the audience to recognize the full potential of individuals in their community, and to find value in those who society has deemed valueless. She is one of the country’s most sought-after motivational speakers. Tickets range between $18 and $35 and can be purchased at ticketleap.com or at the door. There is a group rate of $10 per ticket for groups of 30 or more.
All net proceeds will benefit The Alma Randolph Charitable Foundation. While raising money for the Foundation is one of the goals of this event, Alma and Leigh Anne Tuohy also hope that they can encourage our community in the belief that one person can make a difference in the lives of the next generation. If you are interested in partnering with The Alma Randolph Charitable Foundation, all contributions are tax-deductible and can be made out to “The Alma Randolph Charitable Foundation” and sent to 2400 Friendship Dr., Suite B, Owensboro KY 42303.
