Nearly 16 years ago, Shelley Snyder accepted what she once described as her dream job: leading Donate Life Kentucky Trust. It was a role shaped not just by professional ambition, but by personal experience. From an early age, Shelley saw the impact of donation firsthand. Her father became a donor in 2001, and her mother received the gift of life through tissue donation years later. Those experiences quietly shaped her understanding of what donation means for families, and ultimately guided…

At Donate Life Kentucky Trust, we believe the strongest education happens when people truly connect to the story. We licensed Heart of the Motor for use in Kentucky schools so students across the Commonwealth can learn about organ donation in a way that feels real, relevant, and engaging. Instead of a traditional lecture or PowerPoint, we meet students where they are through authentic storytelling that stays with them long after the bell rings. We are deeply thankful for the contributors…

At Donate Life Kentucky Trust, we are honored to work alongside the OPO and heroic families who give the greatest gift of life during the worst days of their lives. Our Donor Family Support Program was founded to provide limited assistance to donor families after donation has taken place. These funds are never considered prior to authorization. It is important to clarify that the Organ Procurement Organization (OPO), including Network for Hope, has no control over these grants. All requests…

National Donor Day is a special time to honor the incredible generosity of organ, eye, and tissue donors. Their decision to give creates second chances, restores health, and brings hope to families when they need it most. Today is about celebrating that love – and helping it grow. If you’re wondering how to take part, here are meaningful ways to share the love on National Donor Day and beyond. 1. Post and Share on Social Media Here are graphics to…

Get ready for one of the most exciting and meaningful days of the spring racing season & Donate Life Month! Donate Life Kentucky Trust is heading back to Millionaires Row 4 at Churchill Downs for our signature race day fundraiser on Thursday of Derby Week, and it’s an experience you don’t want to miss. This event sells out every single year, and for good reason. Thurby blends the energy of Derby week with a heartfelt mission, bringing together friends, supporters,…

Our vision is bold: a world where no one dies waiting for a transplant and every donor hero’s legacy is honored. We know that if everyone registered as an organ, eye, and tissue donor, the waiting list would be drastically reduced – and lives would be saved. That future begins with building trust & increasing public education. The Donate Life Scholarship Program was created to recognize students who are doing more than learning about donation – they are leading the…

We are proud to share that Shelley Snyder, Executive Director of Donate Life Kentucky Trust, will serve as Chair of the Advisory Council for Donate Life America in 2026, helping guide the organization’s national leadership and strategic direction in the year ahead. With this role, Shelley will also serve as an ex-officio member on the Donate Life America Board of DirectorsThe Donate Life America Advisory Council is a national body of experienced leaders from across the organ, eye, and tissue…

Want to volunteer, get involved, or sponsor an event to help save lives? Check out our 2026 dates – with updates and additions throughout the year, so keep refreshing!

In 2025, Kentuckians came together in powerful ways to save lives, support families, and strengthen our donation and transplant community. Here are five moments that defined the year. Top 5 Impact Wins of 2025: 1. 75,000+ New Donor RegistrantsMore than 75,000 Kentuckians joined the donor registry for the first time, choosing to give hope and healing to others across the Commonwealth. 2. 50+ Children Supported During their Transplant JourneyWe supported children, from 7 weeks to 18 years old, across 14…