Community Impact

Rooted in Tradition. Invested in Our Community.

Rooted in Tradition. Invested in Our Community.

Churchill Downs Racetrack is proud to be more than the home of the Kentucky Derby. We are a year-round community partner dedicated to strengthening Louisville and the Commonwealth of Kentucky. From the backside to the grandstand, our commitment to our community is woven into the fabric of our operations. We recognize the unique role our historic track plays in the cultural and economic vitality of our region, and we are intentional about using our platform to create meaningful, lasting impact.

At Churchill Downs, our community efforts focus on supporting the growth and sustainability of the equine industry, advancing critical health and human services, and enhancing the vibrancy that makes our community exceptional. Through charitable partnerships, race day collaborations, in-kind support and community engagement initiatives hosted on our grounds, we work to ensure that the impact of Churchill Downs extends far beyond the finish line.

As part of Churchill Downs Incorporated, we contribute to a broader legacy of giving that supports hundreds of organizations each year. Together, we are proud to invest millions annually in charitable grants and in-kind donations, with a strong emphasis on the communities that surround and support our racetrack. Our dedication to responsible stewardship and positive change continues to guide our work both on and off the track.

Get Involved

Connect with our team to find out how we can get involved with your organization or to request information regarding our community efforts!

News and Press Releases

Community Impact July 30, 2026

Churchill Downs Unveils Monument Honoring Oliver Lewis

Louisville, Ky. (June 24, 2026) – Churchill Downs and the Oliver Lewis Foundation unveiled a bronze statue honoring Oliver Lewis, the jockey who rode Aristides to victory in the inaugural Kentucky Derby in 1875.
Donated to Churchill Downs by the Lewis...

Community Impact July 20, 2026

Churchill Downs Team Members Give Back Through Food Pantry Volunteer Effort

Churchill Downs team members partnered with Catholic Charities of Louisville to support the Father Jack Jones Food Pantry. They served on Wednesday mornings throughout May and June to help fight food insecurity in our community.
Each week, volunteers...

Community Impact July 30, 2026

Gallop for Good Raises More Than $300,000 to Support Thoroughbred Aftercare Organizations Nationwide

Louisville, Ky. (June 30, 2026) – Churchill Downs Incorporated (Nasdaq: CHDN) (“CDI”) announced that the inaugural Gallop for Good: From Race to Retirement (“Gallop for Good”) campaign raised more than $303,000 to benefit 75 Thoroughbred aftercare...

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