The WLKY Spirit of Louisville Foundation will celebrate the 48th Anniversary of the WLKY Bell Awards on October 9th, hosting the prestigious event at the iconic Churchill Downs Millionaires Row. This annual ceremony honors adults and high school youth who exemplify the “Spirit of Louisville” through selfless volunteerism and community engagement.
Among this year’s distinguished honorees is Michael McLaughlin, a Shelbyville resident whose tireless dedication to service has made a lasting impact across Shelby County and beyond.
McLaughlin began his career in health care with Humana, Inc., where he worked in Medicare services and led efforts to support Angel Tree initiatives, raising over $19,000 in just four years. His professional journey continued at Aetna/CVS, but his passion for community service remained a constant.
Over the past decade, Michael has served in numerous leadership roles, including PTO/PTSA President at both Clear Creek Elementary and East Middle School, where he helped establish vibrant parent organizations. Parental engagement was so important to Michael he facilitated recurring group meetings with PTO leaders throughout the district to inspire service and collaboration. He also served on the Shelby County Redistricting Committee and the Superintendent Screening Committee, representing parent voices with integrity and vision.
Perhaps his most impactful contribution is as the founding Executive Director of Ready Fest, Inc., a nonprofit that hosts an annual event ensuring students in Shelby County have the supplies and services they need to start the school year prepared. Under McLaughlin’s leadership, Ready Fest has grown from serving 475 students in 2020 to over 2,300 students and families this year. The event now takes place at the Shelbyville Visitors and Convention Center, offering backpacks, clothing, instructional materials, haircuts, and dental exams—all free of charge.
In addition to Ready Fest, Michael serves as Treasurer of Kiwanis, Deacon of Community Partnerships at Shelby Christian Church, and volunteers with Junior Achievement and the Reading Buddy program at local elementary schools. He also coordinates a mentor program at East Middle, West Middle, Marnel C. Mormon, and Collins High Schools.
Each adult Bell Award recipient will receive a $500 charity grant from Presenting Sponsor Republic Bank, while Youth Service Honor Recipients will be awarded $2,000 scholarships courtesy of Brown-Forman Corporation and William W. Campbell.
Michael’s unwavering commitment to service and leadership embodies the true spirit of the Bell Awards. His work continues to inspire others to give back and build stronger communities.