SPARK OF HOPE, though no longer operating its cafe, is still going strong. And as it celebrates its seventh anniversary, it is very much a key part of the Woodford County nonprofit community as it continues to serve the food insecure. The members of the board, from bottom left, then clockwise: Anora Pina, Lori Garkovich, Jackie Anthony, Chef Marissa Prince, Secretary Josh Meeder, Treasurer Mark Molla and Chair Whitney Stepp. Join the Sun in wishing Spark a Happy Anniversary! (Photo provided)
By Scott White
Woodford Sun Staff
Many Woodford Countians mourned the closing of Spark Cafe on N. Main Street, which started as a school project by a group of Woodford County High School students to “spark” downtown growth and respond to the food insecure. Though the restaurant business is difficult, the “spark” begun with a cafe has reignited in a new, exciting form. All while celebrating its seventh anniversary.
Though its physical cafe doors have closed and its name has evolved to “Spark of Hope,” the nonprofit that will continue to be known as Spark remains steadfast in its mission to combat food insecurity and feed hope throughout Woodford County.
The organization has resumed weekly meal deliveries and continues to expand its outreach to ensure that no individual or family in the community goes without nourishment or care.
“While the cafe space served as a special gathering place, our mission has always been about more than a building,” said Board Chair Whitney Stepp-Gay. “We’re returning to our roots — meeting people where they are and ensuring donor dollars go directly toward impact rather than overhead. We are delivering meals and encouragement straight to those who need it most. At the same time, we continue to provide catering services locally, supporting local government lunches, small business gatherings, weddings at local farms or venues and an upcoming large-scale event for Kentucky State University, where a meal curated by two of our former chefs, Isaiah Screetch and Marissa Prince, will be highlighted.”
That commitment to its mission was on full display during the recent holiday season.
In November, Spark of Hope held a Thanksgiving Basket Drive, providing families across the county with complete holiday meals and pantry staples. In December, the organization provided Christmas meal service, ensuring that households facing food insecurity could experience warmth, dignity and nourishment during the holidays. And, Easter plans are well underway.
Spark of Hope recently announced three new board members — Dina Johnson, Josh Heeder and Anora Pina — each of whom brings specialized expertise that will strengthen the organization’s leadership and advance its mission. Together, they add valuable insight across finance, community engagement and strategic growth, positioning Spark of Hope for its next phase of impact.
The board’s focus moving forward includes expanding collaborations with local churches, schools and civic groups to reach more households experiencing food insecurity.
This new chapter will rely on the continued commitment of the Woodford County community.
“We’re calling on our neighbors and local organizations to help us sustain and grow this vital mission,” said Mark Molla, Spark of Hope’s treasurer. “Every meal we deliver is a reminder that hope still lives here.”
Because at Spark of Hope, feeding the community is much more than food — it’s about feeding the spirit of compassion that makes Woodford County home. Food insecurity doesn’t stop — and neither will the good folks at Spark.
To learn more about volunteering, donating, sponsoring meal deliveries or its catering services, which continue under Chef Marissa Prince, go to www.sparkofhope.us.