Volunteer Spotlight: Anthony Deras
Oct 8, 2025
The work of the Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky wouldn’t be possible without a community of volunteers who dedicate their time and hearts to service at ESNKY. Volunteers like University of Louisville medical student Anthony Deras move forward ESNKY’s Life Saving and Life Changing work.
Anthony was inspired to volunteer at ESNKY because of his roots in the region and how he could relate to the guests who walk into our doors.
“I grew up in Elsmere, Kentucky and I personally come from a disadvantaged background. This inspired me to give back to my community by volunteering my time to help those who need it most and I had a lot of fun doing so,” explains Anthony.
Anthony says he’s grateful for volunteering at ESNKY and each time provided memorable experiences.
“Every day I volunteered gave me the opportunity to help someone and I am very grateful for that. Every day was a memorable experience because the staff welcomed me with open arms and showed me nothing but hospitality and the guests are awesome. I enjoyed interacting with them even if it was just a simple conversation because I was able to brighten their days and provide compassion during their most vulnerable moments in life,” recalls Anthony.
Anthony says he finds the transformative work he’s witnessed at ESNKY one of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering.
“The most rewarding aspect of this organization is witnessing their dedicated commitment to helping those who face systemic barriers in regard to employment, housing and access to healthcare. I have personally witnessed guests at our shelter secure employment due to the efforts of the staff. They also have a clinic that sees patients who do not have equal access to health care which also stood out to me. I love the purpose of this place, and I wish I would have found out about it sooner so that I could've started sooner,” says Anthony.
If you’d like to become a volunteer, like Anthony, contact Maya Mintu, ESNKY Volunteer Coordinator at maya.mintu@esnky.net or (859) 291 – 4555.