Welcome House Outreach makes big impact on organization and is celebrating 34 years

For over 34 years, Welcome House Outreach (the WHO) has operated as a volunteer-based fundraising group for Welcome House in Northern Kentucky. Organized just seven years after Welcome House itself, the WHO has created a seamless, collaborative alignment with Welcome House from the very beginning.

Welcome House, an organization dedicated to ending homelessness and fostering stability for every individual it serves, is supported by the WHO which offers both financial and moral backing to Welcome House, its board, and its programs, as noted in a 1990 patron statement.

Danielle Amrine, Welcome House CEO, says, “Their tireless efforts have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars, transforming lives and embodying the spirit of compassion and hope that defines Welcome House. We are profoundly grateful for their unwavering support and dedication.”

Welcome House Outreach held its first fundraising event at Riverbend Music Center in August 1990, featuring a post-concert meet-and-greet with the renowned singer John Denver. The excitement of celebrity involvement brought in a large crowd, with over 200 people attending the event.

The WHO’s mission is to ‘educate the community by leveraging their network through fundraising and organizing special events.’ Being a volunteer-run group allows for all funds raised to be donated entirely to Welcome House.

Members of the WHO spend countless hours of their time meticulously planning both events and finding new ways to support Welcome House.

WHO member, Ann Hemmer, said, “My mother [Pat Hemmer] was one of the founding members of the WHO, so it was destined for me to become involved!”

The group consists of about 20 women from diverse backgrounds, some multi-generational like the Hemmers, share the passion of giving back to the community. There is a “strong sense of comradery,” says Ann.

Much of the volunteers’ time is spent coordinating the details for the annual Spring Shower and Summer Sunday fundraising events. The Spring Shower is similar to bridal or baby shower, where guests bring gifts to make a big life transition a little bit easier. In this case, guests are encouraged to bring household items for Welcome House participants who are transitioning into affordable housing.

“Spring Shower is my favorite event each year,” says Brittaney King, WHO Member and Summer Sunday Co-Chair. “Seeing the large quantity of items collected at that event made such an impact on me at my first Spring Shower, and it is what inspired me to get involved with Welcome House Outreach eight years ago.”

The Summer Sunday event is held at the beginning of August each year. While the Spring Shower event provides physical items for Welcome House, Summer Sunday generates financial support. This year’s Summer Sunday event was held at Drees Pavilion and allowed space for expansion.

This year the event raised over $90,000 raised, setting a new record.

At their monthly meetings, when they are not working on fundraising event plans, “the WHO members are asking Welcome House, ‘What do you need?’” says vice president of Marketing & Development at Welcome House, Kelly Rose. They often coordinate other ways of supporting the needs of the women, children, and families housed in the Welcome House shelter and often contribute to in-kind donation efforts.

Kristen Inman, WHO member and Summer Sunday Co-Chair, expresses the importance of acknowledging and remembering humanity in each person’s unique journey. “I’ve learned that homelessness is far more complex than the common stigmas that people often associate with it. Hearing the stories and meeting the individuals Welcome House has served has been both eye-opening and heartwarming.”

As Welcome House Outreach continues to explore partnerships with local businesses and organizations to expand their reach and resources. Community collaboration is at the core of their mission, strengthening the impact of their efforts

As they evolve, the WHO remains committed to seeking input from participants and the Welcome House. staff to ensure their fundraising efforts address the genuine needs. They believe every small step can lead to change, making a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Anyone interested in joining the WHO’s efforts or learning more about how you can help Welcome House can contact Natalie Endres at nendres@welcomehouseky.org or 859-292-9352.

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