Compassion in Motion Support Shoes – 4 - Kids Today

Compassion in Motion

Support Shoes – 4 - Kids Today

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

In a world where poverty often hides in plain sight, the absence of a simple pair of shoes can be a glaring symbol of hardship—and a painful one at that. But one organization is lacing up with love and purpose to change that narrative. Shoes 4 Kids, a passionate nonprofit rooted in compassion and community, is on a mission to put brand-new, name-brand athletic shoes on the feet of underprivileged children—and restore dignity, confidence, and hope along the way.

At its heart, Shoes 4 Kids is about more than footwear. It's about opportunity, self-esteem, and belonging. By working directly with local schools, the organization identifies children in need and ensures they receive high-quality shoes that many of their peers take for granted. These aren’t secondhand or discounted leftovers—they’re shoes that help kids stand tall among their peers, ready to face the world without shame or stigma.

“It’s never over if we aren’t putting shoes on the children—we are raising money to buy more shoes with,” said Dorothy Spillman, a tireless volunteer who has poured her heart into the mission. Her words echo the nonprofit’s relentless drive to meet the ever-present need in the community. It’s an ongoing effort, fueled by the generosity of local businesses, civic groups, and everyday people who want to make a tangible difference.

For Spillman, the payoff is priceless. “My favorite part about being part of this program is getting to see the smile on the children’s faces and that sparkle in their eyes. It truly makes it all worthwhile,” she shared. Those smiles and sparkles aren’t just cute moments—they’re powerful testaments to the transformation that happens when a child feels seen, valued, and supported.

That sense of purpose is shared across the Shoes 4 Kids family. “It is such an honor to be a part of this group and to have the opportunity to help these children. It really is a blessing for all involved,” Spillman added. And fortunately, there are many ways for others to get involved and be part of this incredible movement.

One of the most exciting opportunities on the horizon is the 4th Annual Shoes 4 Kids Golf Scramble, set to take place on Saturday, July 19, at River Bend Golf Course on Route 1 in Greenup. More than just a fun day on the greens, this event is a vital fundraiser with 100% of proceeds going directly toward purchasing shoes for children in need.

Golfers can look forward to a well-organized event featuring breakfast, lunch, and free non-alcoholic drinks for all participants. Registration starts at 8 a.m., followed by a 9 a.m. shotgun start. Whether you're an experienced golfer or just looking for a meaningful way to give back, the Golf Scramble offers a perfect blend of recreation and purpose.

If you’re ready to join in, there’s still time to sign up. Contact Sherry Archer at 606.473.9974 or 606.922.3922 to register a team or inquire about sponsorship opportunities like sponsoring a hole. It’s a simple way to make a major impact—and maybe even walk away with some new friends and lasting memories.

For those unable to attend the scramble but still eager to help, donating has never been easier. “You can go to Facebook Shoes 4 Kids and make a donation. We have a Venmo account set up,” Spillman explained. Every single dollar goes directly toward buying new shoes for children who need them the most—no overhead, no waste, just heartfelt giving with immediate impact.

In a time when so many are asking, “How can I help?” Shoes 4 Kids offers a clear, powerful answer: help a child take their next step with pride. With a pair of shoes, we can restore a sense of normalcy, self-worth, and possibility.

So, whether you're swinging a golf club or clicking “donate” from your phone, know this—your support walks directly into the life of a child who needs it. And sometimes, that one step forward is all it takes to change a life forever. Will you walk with them?