Will Stein, Coaches for Kids Donate $1.35 Million
The record-setting donation will support the Institute on Fostering Resilience at Golisano Children's at UK.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Will Stein and Coaches for the Kids have presented a $1.35 million donation to Golisano Children's at UK. This funding will directly support the newly established Institute on Fostering Resilience.
Why it matters
The donation addresses a significant local need, as nearly 8,000 children are currently in the Kentucky foster care system. This initiative aims to provide essential support services for these vulnerable youth.
The $1.35 million gift includes proceeds from a fundraising event that exceeded $1 million and a matching donation. This contribution is part of a larger effort where Coaches for the Kids has raised over $9 million for the hospital over two decades.
The players
Will Stein
Will Stein is a coach who has been instrumental in leading the fundraising efforts for Coaches for the Kids.
Golisano Children's at UK
Golisano Children's at UK is a major medical facility in Lexington providing specialized pediatric care to patients throughout Kentucky.
Coaches for the Kids
Coaches for the Kids is a charitable organization dedicated to raising funds and support for children in need at regional medical centers.
The details
The donation stems from an annual fundraising event bolstered by a matching gift. It is designed to bolster the Institute on Fostering Resilience as it works to serve children across the Kentucky foster care system.
Timeline
October 28, 2026: The donation was officially presented to Golisano Children's at UK.
Market Landscape
The donation highlights the ongoing regional trend where private philanthropy fills gaps in support systems for Kentucky's foster care population. The foster care rate in Kentucky remains 60% higher than the national per capita average, forcing local organizations to scale up their fundraising targets.
This donation provides dedicated resources for the Institute on Fostering Resilience, potentially improving care access for local families involved in the foster system. The gift ensures that specialized support services remain available to the thousands of children currently in care across Kentucky.
The takeaway
This donation highlights the critical role of private fundraising in addressing systemic social challenges in Kentucky. Residents interested in helping may monitor upcoming events from major philanthropic organizations to support local children.
Further reading
For more information on local giving, visit the Lexington Philanthropy section.
Live Poll
Do you believe private donations effectively address systemic foster care challenges in your community?
