At the invitation of the University President, Community Relations coordinates the annual Community Service Recognition Program . Held annually in April during National Volunteer Month, those who have volunteered during the previous year are recognized for their willing spirit. In addition, a special committee selects one faculty member and one staff member from a nomination process to represent U of L as outstanding volunteers. Each year a community agency, individual or organization is also honored for outstanding service to the community. Participants include the Kentucky Opera, PNC Broadway Series, Derby Dinner Playhouse, Kentucky Shakespeare Festival, Iroquois Amphitheater, Louisville Ballet, Louisville Orchestra, Louisville Visual Arts, and Music Theatre of Louisville.
Discounts vary for each group.
Community Spotlight Archivist Dr. Thomas Owen researches the rich legacy of historic neighborhoods and presents his findings through a visual and oral presentation. The Community Relations Council is an advisory group made up of university representatives from several schools, departments and offices. The Council meets annually but interacts on a regular basis via e-mail. During the summer, the Operation Backpack program benefits needy students by providing school supplies for return to school. Although individual families are assisted upon request, the bulk of the material is donated to area groups that work with at-risk children.