Bluegrass Gives Nonprofit Registration Now Open

Local nonprofits invited to join Central and Appalachia Kentucky’s biggest day of giving

Nonprofit registration is now open for Bluegrass Gives, Central and Appalachia Kentucky’s biggest day of giving. Hosted by Blue Grass Community Foundation (BGCF) in partnership with Smiley Pete, Bluegrass Gives brings people across the region together to support local nonprofits through one exciting, community-wide giving campaign.

Bluegrass Gives 2026 will take place on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 1, from 6 a.m. to midnight. Early Giving will begin Nov. 24.

Since its launch in 2011, Bluegrass Gives has helped hundreds of local nonprofits raise more than $29 million by engaging tens of thousands of donors in building a better Bluegrass. In 2025, local nonprofits raised more than $3 million in a single day through the campaign, demonstrating the power of a region-wide giving movement.

“Bluegrass Gives helps local nonprofits reach donors, tell their stories and build momentum through one shared day of generosity,” said Lauren Parsons, VP/Communications at BGCF. “We’re excited to host this campaign with Smiley Pete for the 16th year and invite organizations across Central and Appalachia Kentucky to register.”

Collective giving days like Bluegrass Gives create momentum that helps nonprofits raise more money and broaden their reach. These campaigns connect nonprofits with new supporters, build urgency through matches and prizes and make giving feel like a community-wide celebration.

Nonprofit registration is open now at BGgives.org and will close Sept. 4. Participation is open to eligible 501(c)(3) public charities and fiscally sponsored programs located in Blue Grass Community Foundation’s service area.

Registered nonprofits receive access to an easy-to-use giving platform, customizable fundraising pages, campaign resources and training designed to strengthen fundraising efforts during Bluegrass Gives and beyond. BGCF will offer webinars, in-person sessions, toolkits and other support leading up to the campaign.

More information about Bluegrass Gives and how to register is available at bgcf.org/bggives.