A Reflection from Ron Gallo, President & CEO, Community Foundation of Louisville
Written by Ron Gallo
This statement is not about politics; it’s about community. While I may not have the expertise to weigh in on tariffs, government efficiencies, or the specifics of America’s international alliances, I do understand the importance of building and nurturing community. It requires respect, tolerance for differences, supporting each other’s dreams and aspirations, and standing behind people, organizations, and structures that foster trust, prosperity, and joy for everyone.
Our nation, like all civilizations, has not always upheld these principles, particularly for our Black family members and those who have come here from all corners of the globe seeking freedom and prosperity. Yet I have always found hope in America’s ability—though sometimes delayed—to acknowledge injustices and strive for a more equitable future.
Born in the mid-1950s, as the grandson of immigrants from Sicily, Costa Rica, and Hungary, I came of age during the 1960s and witnessed my country grappling with its identity and purpose. Today, for the first time, I am deeply concerned—not because of any individual or political party, but because empathy and civility seem to be eroding. We all share responsibility for this decline. Without empathy and civility, optimism fades, fear grows, and the possibility of building safe communities diminishes. The “we-them” mentality is one of the most harmful forces to a civil society, and unfortunately, it appears to be where we are stuck.
There is a remedy. One that has existed as long as humanity itself. It lies in people coming together, organizing, and working collectively for the greater good. This could mean creating something beautiful, like art; preserving something vital, like clean air and water; or advocating for new protections and access, especially for those who have often been excluded.
For decades, nonprofit organizations have embodied our best intentions. They assist those facing poverty, unsafe conditions, and limited access to healthcare. They amplify the voices of the marginalized and newly arrived, provide protection, educate, and spread joy. Yet these organizations and the people they serve—essentially all of us—are increasingly being questioned, undermined, and marginalized. Allowing this to continue is not only tragic but also a significant step backward for what has made this nation unique and vibrant.
To my Louisville neighbors, my call to action is simple: embrace empathy, support our nonprofit community more than ever, and remind others that true and lasting security comes from welcoming all who aspire to contribute responsibly to our community. Like those who came before us, it is now our turn to intentionally shape the next chapter of our city, our Commonwealth, and our nation.
Please consider giving to the Louisville Coalition for Immigrant Support Fund (LCIS) at https://givelcis.org/ or another nonprofit organization that represents your values. The Community Foundation of Louisville is gathering information about how federal funding cuts are affecting local nonprofits. We will share this information on our website at cflouisville.org.
Ron Gallo, President & CEO
Community Foundation of Louisville