Chamber Member of the Week: Sunrise Children’s Services
Sunrise Children’s Services began in 1869 at the Walnut Street Baptist Church in Louisville. The Owensboro location opened in September 2001, specializing in therapeutic foster and foster-to-adopt programs, among other services.
Women from the Baptist church recognized the urgent need to care for orphaned children following the Civil War and opened the first location. In over 155 years, the nonprofit has steadily expanded its reach, establishing numerous residential facilities, family counseling centers, and foster care offices throughout the Commonwealth.
Director Kellie Neal said the Owensboro move began an adolescent presence in the community. In addition to foster care services, Sunrise also offers outpatient mental health therapy and an award-winning Independent Living program for young adults aging out of care but still requiring services.
Additional services include an alcohol, drug, and other substance abuse residential program, residential programs for boys and girls, and a psychiatric residential treatment program for boys older than 6.
“As a faith-based foster care agency like Sunrise Children’s Services, being a part of the Owensboro, Kentucky community is a privilege and a calling,” Neal said. “Being a part of this community means embracing its values of neighborly kindness, unity, and support. It means actively engaging with local churches, organizations, and individuals to create a network of care and support for children in need.”
Neal added that the nonprofit is committed to serving the local community with compassion and dedication. She said their presence extends beyond foster care and outpatient services as they consistently strive to be an active and engaged community member.
“For Sunrise Children’s Services, being a part of the Owensboro community is about building partnerships, fostering relationships, and working together to ensure every child feels valued, safe, and loved,” she said. “It’s about being a beacon of hope and light in the lives of those we serve and a testament to the transformative power of faith and community.”
Neal said their most significant obstacle is a lack of foster parents.
“We turn down dozens of children, sibling groups, and teens each week due to a lack of foster parent homes,” she said.
Sunrise remains committed to quality care and community engagement while consistently growing and improving local partnerships.
“We provide essential support to vulnerable children and families right in their backyard,” Neal said. “Our programs are designed to address the community’s unique needs and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.”
To learn more, visit sunrise.org or search SunriseKidsKY on Facebook. Neal is available by phone at 270-926-2484.
By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times