Author: Katlyn Miller

Senator Brandon Storm Recognized as Community Action Opportunity Maker

FRANKFORT, KY, November 1 – Senator Brandon Storm was honored on October 31, 2024, with the Community Action Opportunity Maker award by Kentucky’s Community Action Network. The award, presented by Rick Baker, Executive Director of Community Action Kentucky, recognizes legislators who have shown a commitment to creating opportunities and fostering positive change for Kentuckians.

The award ceremony took place at the future home of a Laurel County family, a project led by the Daniel Boone Community Action Agency, funded by the Kentucky Housing Corporation and USDA Rural Development. Remarks were made by Robin Whitaker, Executive Director of the Daniel Boone Community Action Agency, and Roger Schott, Laurel County Circuit Court Clerk and Agency’s Board Chair, who highlighted the significance of community action and Senator Storm’s contributions to their communities.

Elected to the State Senate in 2020, Senator Storm represents Kentucky’s 21st Senate District. During the 2024 legislative session, he supported Community Action’s efforts to expand resources for workforce development. In his role as Vice-Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, he has successfully secured vital funds for Kentucky’s transportation infrastructure. This has led to job creation and improved transportation within his district, proving invaluable to the Daniel Boone Community Action Agency’s Transportation Program.

Senator Storm’s support of Kentucky’s Community Action Network, evident in his readiness to listen, collaborate on solutions that affect Kentuckians, and his dedicated support to initiatives like workforce development, makes him a deserving recipient of this award. His work for the Commonwealth reflects the spirit of a Community Action Opportunity Maker.

Included photo from the award ceremony features Senator Brandon Storm; Rick Baker, Executive Director of CAK; Robin Whitaker, Executive Director of Daniel Boone Community Action Agency; Mona Whitaker, Deputy Director of Daniel Boone Community Action Agency; Roger Schott, Laurel County Circuit Court Clerk and the Agency’s Board Chair; Donna McClure, Field Representative for Senator Mitch McConnell; and David Westerfield, Laurel County Judge Executive. A photo of the future home is also included.

For more information about CAK and the 23 Community Action Agencies in Kentucky, visit https://www.capky.org/. 

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About Community Action Kentucky

Community Action Kentucky is the statewide association representing and assisting all 23 Community Action agencies across Kentucky that work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and improved health outcomes. With a presence in all 120 Kentucky counties, Community Action agencies provide life-changing resources and programs to support a wide array of service areas, including food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing assistance, workforce development, youth enrichment and more. As a statewide voice for local agencies, Community Action Kentucky works to address policy issues that impact low-income individuals and cultivates broad-reaching partnerships that improve the lives of thousands of Kentuckians, making it possible for them to achieve their goals. For more information about Community Action Kentucky, visit www.CAPKY.org.

Prepare for Fall – LIHEAP Subsidy Enrollment November 5th through December 20, 2024

FRANKFORT, Ky. (October 29, 2024): Starting November 5, Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Fall Subsidy enrollment is available through Kentucky’s Community Action Network for eligible Kentucky households. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis through December 20, 2024, or until designated funds have been expended.

Individuals should apply through their local Community Action Agency office. To locate your local office, please call 800-456-3452 or visit www.capky.org/network. Please be aware that some offices may be closed on November 5th for the General Election.

LIHEAP Fall Subsidy provides households with a one-time benefit depending on housing category, fuel type used for heating, and income level. Benefit can be applied towards home heating cost for electric, natural gas, propane, coal, wood, or fuel oil.

Benefits are paid directly to the household’s energy vendor. Prior LIHEAP assistance does not impact a household’s eligibility. Households must meet eligibility requirements, including income eligibility of up to and including 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Community Action Kentucky administers LIHEAP in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services who receive the funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more information about LIHEAP, including contact information for all local Community Action agencies, please visit the Community Action Kentucky website at www.CAPKY.org.

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About Community Action Kentucky

Community Action Kentucky is the statewide association representing and assisting the 23 Community Action agencies across Kentucky that work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and long-term success. With a presence in all 120 Kentucky counties, Community Action agencies provide life-changing resources and programs to support a wide array of service areas, including food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing assistance, workforce development, youth enrichment and more. As a statewide voice for local agencies, Community Action Kentucky works to address policy issues that impact low-income individuals and cultivates broad-reaching partnerships that improve the lives of thousands of Kentuckians, making it possible for them to achieve their goals. For more information about Community Action Kentucky, visit www.CAPKY.org.

Senator Jimmy Higdon Receives Community Action Opportunity Maker Award

FRANKFORT, Ky. (October 23, 2024) – On October 14, 2024, at the Central Kentucky Community Action Council in Lebanon, KY, Kentucky’s Community Action Network was honored to name Senator Jimmy Higdon as the first-ever recipient of the Community Action Opportunity Maker award. Presented by Community Action Kentucky’s Executive Director, Rick Baker, the award is inspired by Community Action’s founding under the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 and recognizes legislators who have demonstrated commitment to creating opportunities and fostering positive change for Kentuckians.


As Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, Senator Higdon has made strides in addressing transportation challenges. His impact extends beyond transportation, aligning with Community Action’s goal to provide a ‘hand up’ to our fellow Kentuckians. His support of Kentucky’s Community Action Network is echoed through his willingness to listen and collaborate on solutions that impact individuals in the Commonwealth.


Senator Higdon has been a steadfast supporter of community action, making a significant impact on the lives of many through his work in the Kentucky State Senate and locally through the Central Kentucky Community Action Council.
It is this alignment of values and commitment to service that makes him a deserving recipient of this inaugural award. Community Action Kentucky is grateful for his dedication and is honored to recognize him as the inaugural Community Action Opportunity Maker.


Included is a photo from the award ceremony. Pictured are Senator Jimmy Higdon, Rick Baker, Executive Director of CAK, and Executive Directors from across Kentucky’s Community Action Network: Uppinder Mehan of West Kentucky Allied Services, Robin Whitaker of Daniel Boone Community Action Agency, Hal Goode of Central Kentucky Community Action Council, Rob Jones of Audubon Area Community Services, and Harold Monroe of Pennyrile Allied Community Services.


For more information about CAK and the 23 CAAs in Kentucky, visit https://www.capky.org/.

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About Community Action Kentucky
Community Action Kentucky is the statewide association representing and assisting all 23 Community Action agencies across Kentucky that work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and improved health outcomes. With a presence in all 120 Kentucky counties, Community Action agencies provide life-changing resources and programs to support a wide array of service areas, including food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing assistance, workforce development, youth enrichment and more. As a statewide voice for local agencies, Community Action Kentucky works to address policy issues that impact low-income individuals and cultivates broad-reaching partnerships that improve the lives of thousands of Kentuckians, making it possible for them to achieve their goals. For more information about Community Action Kentucky, visit www.CAPKY.org.

CAK 2025 Annual Conference: Call for Session Proposal

CAK is excited to announce that we are accepting session proposals for the 2025 Community Action Kentucky Annual Conference. The conference is scheduled for June 10-12, 2025, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Lexington/UK Coldstream in Lexington, KY.

We invite you to submit session proposals using this online form. All submitters will be notified of their proposal’s status, whether accepted or denied, by February 1, 2025.

Please note that all submissions will require the following:

  • Session Information: This includes the title, focus area, and other relevant details about your proposed session.
  • Session Summary: 35-word description that will appear on the conference program website and app. 
  • Session Description: A 250-word description of your session, including a summary of the topic and of the information, takeaways, benefits, or lessons that you expect attendees to gain.

We welcome presentations on any topic of interest to the Community Action Network, including but not limited to: Aging, CSBG, Case Management and Family Support, Head Start, Housing, Information Technology, Leadership, Organizational Management, Program Management, Transportation, and Workforce Development.

Community Action Kentucky Affirms Its Core Values

Join us at CAK as we continue to strive for equality, dignity, and respect for all. Our values assert, “We believe that all people should be treated with dignity and respect and recognize that structural race, gender and other inequities remain barriers that must be addressed.” Community Action Kentucky affirms that there is no place for racism in our communities. We commit ourselves to the well-being of every individual and reject acts of hate. We denounce all forms of violence and any acts that dehumanize anyone. We echo the words in the Community Action Promise, “We care about the entire community”.

The Community Action Promise states: “Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.”

We stand in solidarity with our Board Chair, Catrena Bowman, who recently experienced a reprehensible act of hate. We want to affirm that Community Action Kentucky condemns this act and any form of racism or hate. We believe in treating all people with dignity and respect, and we recognize that structural race, gender, and other inequities remain barriers that must be addressed. We echo the words in the Community Action Promise, “We care about the entire community”.

In response, Catrena Bowman wrote this piece: Targeted with hate message, I ask ‘is this the community we want?

We are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other, and we will continue to work tirelessly to make our community a safe and inclusive place for everyone.

Beat the Heat: LIHEAP Summer Subsidy Cooling 2024 Enrollment Opens July 16

Kentuckians Apply for Cooling Assistance at Your Local Community Action Agency

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 8, 2024): The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Summer Subsidy is here to help Kentucky households offset summer cooling costs. Enrollment starts July 16 and runs until September 13, 2024, or until designated funds are depleted. Households with incomes up to 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines can apply on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The Summer Subsidy Component provides households one-time benefit ranging from $50 to $250 depending on income levels and housing category. Benefits are paid directly to the household’s electric vendor.

To apply, contact your local Community Action Agency office. Find your local office by calling 800-456-3452 or visiting www.capky.org/network. Kentucky’s Community Action Network collectively operates outreach offices in all 120 Kentucky counties.

All applicants will be required to supply the following documentation at time of application:

  • Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
  • Proof of income from the preceding month for all members of the household.
  • Most current electric bill, statement from your landlord if electric is included in your rent, statement from utility company if you participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program.
  • The account number and name on the account for main heating fuel sources and electric bill.

The Summer Subsidy does not require a disconnect notice or past due bill. The benefit can be applied as a credit on your account. Assistance received during previous LIHEAP components does not affect household’s eligibility.

Community Action Kentucky administers LIHEAP in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services who receive the funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more information about LIHEAP, including contact information for all local Community Action agencies, please visit the Community Action Kentucky website at www.CAPKY.org.  

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About Community Action Kentucky 

Community Action Kentucky is the statewide association representing and assisting the 23 Community Action agencies across Kentucky that work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and long-term success. With a presence in all 120 Kentucky counties, Community Action agencies provide life-changing resources and programs to support a wide array of service areas, including food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing assistance, workforce development, youth enrichment and more. As a statewide voice for local agencies, Community Action Kentucky works to address policy issues that impact low-income individuals and cultivates broad-reaching partnerships that improve the lives of thousands of Kentuckians, making it possible for them to achieve their goals. For more information about Community Action Kentucky, visit www.CAPKY.org.  

Community Action Kentucky Appoints Rick Baker as New Executive Director

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 14, 2024) – As part of its ongoing commitment to building and strengthening the network of Kentucky’s Community Action Agencies, Community Action Kentucky (CAK) is pleased to announce Rick Baker, as its new Executive Director, effective June 3, 2024.

Catrena Bowman, CAK’s Board Chair, shared her excitement about Baker’s appointment saying, “The board of directors are excited to announce the hiring of Rick Baker as Community Action Kentucky’s (CAK) new Executive Director. Rick has worked for many years in the Community Action Network and is a Certified Community Action Professional. He is the former Executive Director of LKLP Community Action Council and is currently serving as the 1st Vice-Chair on the National Community Action Partnership board. We are all looking forward to seeing the direction Rick takes our state association.”

Rick Baker, a seasoned professional in the Community Action Network, expressed his enthusiasm about his new role, stating, “I am deeply honored to be selected to help lead Community Action in Kentucky. I have spent 34 years in service to Community Action and I am humbled to follow in the footsteps of the first executive director of Community Action Kentucky, the late Jesse Amburgey. I am committed to maintaining the high level of excellence that Community Action provides to the citizens of our Commonwealth, especially to help alleviate the distress of poverty. For the past 60 years Community Action has helped people and changed lives. I look forward to helping our 23 Community Action Agencies continue this great work for the next 60 years!”

As Executive Director, Baker will oversee the strategic direction of CAK, working closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and community partners to ensure the continued growth and success of Kentucky’s Community Action Network. His leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Community Action in Kentucky, driving innovative strategies to combat poverty, mobilizing resources, and fostering community engagement and leadership development across its network of 23 Community Action Agencies.

For more information about CAK and the 23 CAAs in Kentucky, visit https://www.capky.org/.

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About Community Action Kentucky

Community Action Kentucky is the statewide association representing and assisting all 23 Community Action agencies across Kentucky that work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and improved health outcomes. With a presence in all 120 Kentucky counties, Community Action agencies provide life-changing resources and programs to support a wide array of service areas, including food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing assistance, workforce development, youth enrichment and more. As a statewide voice for local agencies, Community Action Kentucky works to address policy issues that impact low-income individuals and cultivates broad-reaching partnerships that improve the lives of thousands of Kentuckians, making it possible for them to achieve their goals. For more information about Community Action Kentucky, visit www.CAPKY.org.

Kentucky’s Community Action Network Celebrates 60 Years of Community Action

Empowering Individuals and Families across the Commonwealth

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 1, 2024) – Imagine a Kentucky where every individual and family has the resources they need to thrive. That is the vision that has fueled 60 years of Community Action.

May is designated as Community Action Month, a time to celebrate our collective mission of empowering individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and long-term success. Kentucky’s Community Action Agencies have been a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of people annually, providing life-changing resources.

Community Action Agencies were established as part of President Lyndon B Johnson’s War on Poverty. What makes these agencies special is their use of the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), a federal grant program designed to combat poverty at the local level. The CSBG network includes over 1,000 agencies across the country.

Kentucky’s Community Action Network is comprised of 23 agencies, who collectively serve all 120 counties. CAAs offer a comprehensive range of services. These include food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing, workforce development, and family advocacy.

As we celebrate this legacy, we also look to the future, renewing our commitment to serve Kentucky communities through our 23 CAAs and empower individuals and families to build better lives.

In honor of this milestone, we invite all Kentuckians to share their stories of how Community Action has positively impacted their lives or communities on our Facebook page @ComActionKY. Your experiences help highlight the invaluable work of our agencies and inspire others to engage with and support our mission.

For more information about CAK and the 23 CAAs in Kentucky, visit https://www.capky.org/.

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About Community Action Kentucky

Community Action Kentucky is the statewide association representing and assisting all 23 Community Action agencies across Kentucky that work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and improved health outcomes. With a presence in all 120 Kentucky counties, Community Action agencies provide life-changing resources and programs to support a wide array of service areas, including food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing assistance, workforce development, youth enrichment and more. As a statewide voice for local agencies, Community Action Kentucky works to address policy issues that impact low-income individuals and cultivates broad-reaching partnerships that improve the lives of thousands of Kentuckians, making it possible for them to achieve their goals. For more information about Community Action Kentucky, visit www.CAPKY.org.

Enrollment for LIHEAP Spring Subsidy Cooling Opens April 16 – May 31, 2024

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 9, 2024): Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Spring Subsidy Cooling Component applications will be accepted on a first come, first-serve basis from April 16 to May 31, 2024, or until designated funds are depleted. Kentucky households, up to 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, can receive a benefit to offset their home electric cost.

The Spring Subsidy Cooling Component provides households one-time benefit ranging from $38 to $200 depending on income levels and housing category. Benefits are paid directly to the household’s electric vendor.

Interested households should apply through their local Community Action outreach office. To locate your local office, please call 800-456-3452 or visit www.capky.org/network. Kentucky’s Community Action Network collectively operates outreach offices in all 120 Kentucky counties.

All applicants will be required to supply the following documentation at time of application:

  • Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
  • Proof of income from the preceding month for all members of the household.
  • Most current electric bill, statement from your landlord if electric is included in your rent, statement from utility company if you participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program.
  • The account number and name on the account for main heating fuel sources and electric bill.

Assistance received during previous LIHEAP components does not affect household’s eligibility.

Community Action Kentucky administers LIHEAP in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services who receive the funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more information about LIHEAP, including contact information for all local Community Action agencies, please visit the Community Action Kentucky website at www.CAPKY.org.  

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About Community Action Kentucky 

Community Action Kentucky is the statewide association representing and assisting the 23 Community Action agencies across Kentucky that work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and long-term success. With a presence in all 120 Kentucky counties, Community Action agencies provide life-changing resources and programs to support a wide array of service areas, including food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing assistance, workforce development, youth enrichment and more. As a statewide voice for local agencies, Community Action Kentucky works to address policy issues that impact low-income individuals and cultivates broad-reaching partnerships that improve the lives of thousands of Kentuckians, making it possible for them to achieve their goals. For more information about Community Action Kentucky, visit www.CAPKY.org.  

LIHEAP Crisis Enrollment Starts January 9th at Kentucky’s Community Action Agencies

FRANKFORT, Ky. (December 13, 2023): Starting January 9 through March 31, 2024, Kentucky’s Community Action Agencies (CAK) will accept applications for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Crisis component on a first-come, first-serve basis, or until funds are depleted.

This program assists eligible households facing a home heating emergency, such as imminent loss of heat, low fuel supply, or eviction due to unpaid utility bills. Households must meet eligibility requirements, including income eligibility of up to and including 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Prior LIHEAP assistance does not impact a household’s eligibility.

Crisis benefits will cover the minimum needed to alleviate the crisis not to exceed the Community Action Agency’s local cost for a deliverable supply of the household’s primary heating fuel or $400 for gas or electric. Households can reapply each time they experience a crisis until they reach their maximum benefit. Benefits are paid directly to the fuel vendor.

Kentucky’s Community Action Network collectively operates outreach offices in all 120 Kentucky counties. To apply, contact your local Community Action Agency office or call 800-456-3452. Visit www.capky.org/network to find the nearest office.

All applicants will be required to supply the following documentation at the time of application:

  • Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
  • Proof of all household’s (all members) income from the preceding month.
  • Most current heating bill, statement from your landlord if heating expenses are included in your rent, statement from utility company if you participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program.
  • The account number and name on the account for main heating fuel sources and electric bill.

For the Crisis component, applicants requiring assistance for natural gas or electric must bring a disconnect/past due notice. If your rent includes heat, bring a copy of your lease and eviction notice. Pre-Pay Electric Program participants must show they have 10 days or less of pre-paid electric service.

Community Action Kentucky administers LIHEAP in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services who receive the funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more information about LIHEAP, including contact information for all local Community Action agencies, please visit the Community Action Kentucky website at www.CAPKY.org.  

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About Community Action Kentucky 

Community Action Kentucky is the statewide association representing and assisting the 23 Community Action agencies across Kentucky that work to empower individuals and families to attain greater economic stability and long-term success. With a presence in all 120 Kentucky counties, Community Action agencies provide life-changing resources and programs to support a wide array of service areas, including food security, transportation, home energy, early childhood education, senior support, emergency services, housing assistance, workforce development, youth enrichment and more. As a statewide voice for local agencies, Community Action Kentucky works to address policy issues that impact low-income individuals and cultivates broad-reaching partnerships that improve the lives of thousands of Kentuckians, making it possible for them to achieve their goals. For more information about Community Action Kentucky, visit www.CAPKY.org.