From the Executive Director's Desk

Firstly, I want to extend my gratitude for the ongoing participation and enthusiasm surrounding the G.R.A.N.T. Program of 2024. This initiative is pivotal in driving economic development and infrastructure improvements across the Commonwealth, and we are thankful to have a seat at the table alongside the Cabinet for Economic Development. We are pleased to announce that the fourth version of the G.R.A.N.T. application is now available at ced.ky.gov/grant. This updated application incorporates valuable feedback from previous applicants, ensuring a more streamlined and user-friendly process. We encourage all eligible entities to review the new application and take advantage of this opportunity to secure funding for your impactful projects. 


Our recent quarterly meeting, held June 12 at the Marriott Griffin Gate in Lexington, was a resounding success. It was heartening to see representatives from our Area Development Districts (ADDs) come together to discuss and advance our shared goals. During this meeting, we successfully passed the KCADD's Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget, laying a solid financial foundation for the upcoming year. Our members' collaborative spirit and dedication continue to be the driving force behind our achievements. 


The following day, June 13, we hosted Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell at the Kentucky Association of District Directors meeting. Commissioner Shell's insights and vision for the future of Kentucky's agriculture were inspiring and encouraging. His commitment to working closely with the ADDs aligns perfectly with our mission to bolster the rural economy. 


We also heard from the Department for Local Government (DLG) and the Department for Aging and Independent Living. The DLG's enthusiasm for the upcoming Governor's Local Issues Conference is contagious, and we are excited to announce that we will hold another KCADD meeting during this significant event. This conference presents an excellent opportunity for us to engage with local leaders, share our progress, and collaborate on solutions to the pressing issues facing our communities.


In addition to these highlights, I want to reflect on the broader impact of our collective efforts. The work being done across the ADDs is truly transformative, touching every corner of Kentucky and making a tangible difference in the lives of our residents. From infrastructure improvements and workforce development to economic growth, our initiatives drive positive change and set the stage for a prosperous future. 


As part of our expanded communication efforts, Molly has worked diligently to compile a list of all news outlets in Kentucky. This initiative aims to send press releases for one or two ADDs each week, ensuring our accomplishments and stories reach a wider audience. Alongside our monthly e-newsletter, this is just the beginning of making "Area Development Districts" a household name.


As we move forward, I encourage all members and partners to stay engaged and actively participate in our programs and initiatives. Your input, ideas, and collaboration are essential to our continued success. 


Casey Ellis

Executive Director

Kentucky Council of Area Development Districts

Kennedy to retire after 28 years at Buffalo Trace ADD

Amy Kennedy, whose nearly 28-year tenure with the Buffalo Trace Area Development District (BTADD) has been marked by transformative community development and steadfast public service, will retire from her role as executive director July 31.


Kennedy began her tenure with BTADD in October 1996 as a transportation planner and transitioned to the role of executive director in June 2008.


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Kentucky recognizes World Elder Abuse Day

State officials and advocates from across Kentucky gathered at the Capitol Rotunda Friday, June 14, to commemorate World Elder Abuse Day, officially recognized each year on June 15. The event highlighted the ongoing efforts to protect the state’s senior citizens from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.



During the ceremony, Victoria Elridge, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Aging and Independent Living, presented the CHAMP—Champion of Adult Maltreatment Prevention—Award.


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ADDs in the News

London to Chamber: Area growth 'busting at the seams'


From the News Enterprise


Described as “Fat Albert in a smedium shirt,” growth in the region has population “absolutely busting at the seams.”

With a finger on the pulse of workforce and economic development, Lincoln Trail Area Development District Executive Director Daniel London told the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce members to brace for change. Continue reading.

Gateway ADD’s senior programs focus on food and social fulfillment 


From Morehead State Public Radio


According to a report by Feeding America, 6.9% of Kentuckians aged 60 and above were classified as food insecure, while another 3.4% had ‘very low’ food security. In Rowan County, more than 4,500 people, or 18.6% of the population, qualify as food insecure.

Officials said the bulk of these individuals are in vulnerable age ranges, often children or senior citizens. Continue reading.

NKADD announces appointments to organization’s finance department 


From the Northern Kentucky Tribune


The Northern Kentucky Area Development District (NKADD) has announced the appointment of Chris Korba as the new director of finance and administration and the promotion of Belinda Dungan to the position of accounting and human resources manager.

The changes aim to enhance the finance department’s ability to provide high-quality internal services as well as support our communities and stakeholders with their financial needs. Continue reading.

Big Sandy Senior Games wraps 37th event with awards ceremony


From Mountain News WYMT 


The Big Sandy Area Development District just wrapped its 37th Big Sandy Senior Games, celebrating its athletes with an awards ceremony. 

The luncheon, hosted at the Jenny Wiley State Park Conference Center, brought the senior centers from around the area together for medals, a meal, and some mingling. Continue reading.

What's Happening in Your Area Development District?

Bluegrass ADD partners with BCTC to elevate rural county


Like many of Kentucky's rural counties, Estill County suffers from a lack of training opportunities, especially for those with limited transportation options. This "training desert" should concern everyone because it leaves residents who want to secure employment forced to leave the county or remain unemployed or underemployed.


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NKADD collaborates with UK Cooperative Extension to create 'Cooking With A Purpose'


The Northern Kentucky Area Development (NKADD) Aging and Disability Division, in collaboration with the University of Kentucky Extension Offices from Carroll, Gallatin, and Pendleton counties, has created “Cooking With A Purpose.” The pilot program is designed for participants in the Senior Food Commodities program. 


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KIPDA introduces new tool for reviewing latest Urbanized Area Boundary Locater


A new tool for reviewing the latest Urbanized Area Boundary Locator is now available on the KIPDA website. This tool allows users to enter any address to determine if it falls within the newly defined urbanized area, which has been updated based on the 2020 Census. Additionally, KIPDA staff has provided comprehensive information about the new urbanized area. A story map has also been created to explore and explain the changes from the 2010 Census.

Pennyrile holds 55th annual meeting


A Journey Through the Pennyrile was the theme of the night at the Pennyrile Area Development District’s (PeADD) 55th Annual Dinner Meeting held June 10, 2024, at The Bruce Convention Center in Hopkinsville, KY.


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Governor announces $2.9 million for GRADD area projects


The Green River Area Development District welcomed Gov. Andy Beshear and Delta Regional Authority Federal Co-Chair Dr. Corey Wiggins to the region June 20. Beshear and Wiggins visited the Green River Wellness Mission in Henderson, announcing $2.9 million in funding for four projects. 


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Big Sandy area public awareness campaign aims to combat elder maltreatment


The Big Sandy Council on Elder Maltreatment launched a public awareness campaign during May’s Older Americans Month to combat elder abuse by placing a purple rocking chair with informational signage in various locations across the Big Sandy Area Development District's five counties.


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