Dr. Rosby L. Glover Unity in the Community 2025Unity in Action: Health, Healing, and Hope in Franklin County

Franklin County, Frankfort, Kentucky, once held the second-highest prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease among African American adults in the nation. This alarming statistic, along with other persistent health challenges, galvanized the late Dr. Rosby L. Glover, former pastor of First Baptist Church Frankfort (FBCF), to take action. In collaboration with the UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging and Franklin County Cooperative Extension, Dr. Glover championed a vision of unity—supporting residents from childhood through older age in leading healthy, active lives.

In April 2025, the community was devastated by historic flooding, which led to widespread displacement, loss of life and property, and a deep emotional toll. Many residents remain in recovery, underscoring the urgent need for continued support and connection.

?? Health Challenges in Frankfort

Recent data highlights several critical health concerns:

• Chronic disease: Kentucky ranks among the highest in the U.S. for heart disease and obesity. In 2022, the heart disease death rate was 216.3 per 100,000—well above the national average.
• Mental health & substance use: Depression, addiction, and overdose deaths remain high, especially in underserved areas.
• Access to care: While 95.7% of children under 19 in Franklin County have health insurance, many adults still face barriers to preventive services.
• Health behaviors: Nearly 40% of adults report high blood pressure, and over 37% are classified as obese—both major risk factors for chronic illness.Above: Members of UK, KSU, and FBCF on the grill. Below: KSU members ready to pass out information
  

?? The Power of Community Partnerships

The Dr. Rosby L. Glover Unity in the Community event, hosted by FBCF and a coalition of partners—including UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, UK and KSU Cooperative Extension, Capital City Activity Center, Frankfort Chamber of Commerce, Coca-Cola, Franklin County Regional Jail, and FEMA—was a beacon of hope and healing.

Key highlights:

• Free health screenings and wellness checks for early detection
• Health education to promote informed lifestyle choices
• Outreach and resource connections for underserved families
• Support for flood-affected residents, seniors, and youth

In a show of intergenerational support, 50 Chromebooks and tablets were donated to children ages 4–15 by local civic clubs to aid in educational programming throughout the school year.

The Frankfort and Franklin County EMS pass out firefighter hats, while two youth color the Unity mural.

?? By the Numbers

• 47 community partners
• 50 volunteers
• 134 participants
• 77 children servedCapital City Activity Center Director/Kiwianis Member, Marchele Jenkins speaks with one of the participants.

?? Voices from the Community

“Thank you for the Chromebook! His laptop was seven years old. We couldn’t afford to buy him a new one. This is right on time!” 

“Thanks, I really appreciate this! My daughter lost hers in the flood.” 

“I won! I won! I won a Chromebook! I’m winning today.”

The event’s impact was also recognized in The State Journal article, “Community unites in support of all Frankfort residents.”