Welcome to the Thoroughbred Chapter

Welcome to the Thoroughbred Chapter of HOKC, Inc.

A Letter to Prospective and New Members

Dear Kentucky Colonel,

Thank you for your interest in the Thoroughbred Chapter of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels. We believe every member deserves clear, transparent information about who we are, what we do, how funds are used, and what you can expect from membership.

The Thoroughbred Chapter was chartered in May 2024 and was established to bring Kentucky Colonels together in fellowship, volunteer Service, and charitable support throughout Lexington and Central Kentucky. Our purpose is simple: to provide local opportunities for Colonels to serve their communities, build meaningful relationships, and support worthy nonprofit organizations. 

Our Mission

We support worthy nonprofits by:

• Actively engaging Colonels 
• Fostering strong relationships 
• Being good stewards of our resources and traditions 
• Serving with integrity, compassion, and accountability 

Our activities focus on community Service, veterans support, youth services, disability support, historic preservation, health and rehabilitation initiatives, and assistance to individuals and families facing hardship. 

Who Can Join?

Membership is open to individuals who:

1. Have received a Kentucky Colonel commission from the Governor of Kentucky. 
2. Maintain active status with the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels through Louisville headquarters. 
3. Complete the chapter membership application. 

What Does Membership Cost?

Annual chapter dues are currently $50. New members may qualify for prorated dues depending on when they join during the calendar year.

How Are Membership Dues Used?

One of the most common questions we receive is how chapter dues are utilized.

Membership dues are used exclusively for chapter administrative and operational expenses, including:

• Meeting facility rental 
• Website hosting and domain registration 
• Insurance and compliance expenses      
• Printing and office supplies 
• Member communications 
• Educational materials 
• Name badges and membership      materials 
• General chapter operations 

Our Board of Directors is committed to responsible financial stewardship and transparency in all financial matters.

What Opportunities Are Available to Members?

Members may participate in:

• Chapter meetings 
• Volunteer service projects 
• Community outreach efforts 
• Social gatherings and fellowship events 
• Committee service 
• Chapter leadership opportunities 
• Voting on chapter matters 
• Supporting local charitable initiatives 

The chapter also hosts regular volunteer opportunities and service projects throughout the year, allowing members to remain actively engaged in the Good Works tradition of Kentucky Colonels. 

How Is the Chapter Governed?

The organization is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors elected in accordance with the chapter's governing documents.

Current Board of Directors Leadership:

• Colonel Kevin Bullock – President      
• Colonel Alex "Cash" Olszowy – Vice President / Parliamentarian 
• Colonel Vince Barber – Treasurer 
• Colonel Lezlei Kelly – Secretary 
• Colonel Wade Abbott – At-Large Director 
• Colonel Barbara Ellerbrook – At-Large Director 
• Colonel John Kiebler – At-Large Director 

Board members serve without compensation and are entrusted with oversight of chapter operations, finances, charitable activities, and strategic planning.

Our Commitment to Transparency

As a nonprofit organization, we believe transparency builds trust.

We are committed to:

• Responsible stewardship of all funds entrusted to us 
• Ethical decision-making 
• Open communication with members 
• Compliance with nonprofit laws and regulations 
• Accountability to our members, donors, and community partners 

Questions regarding finances, charitable activities, governance, or membership are always welcome.

Thank You

The title of Kentucky Colonel represents a tradition of Service, leadership, and goodwill. We invite you to join us as we continue that tradition through fellowship, volunteerism, and charitable service throughout Central Kentucky.

Thank you for your interest in the Thoroughbred Chapter of HOKC, Inc. We look forward to serving alongside you.

Respectfully,

Colonel Kevin Bullock
President
Thoroughbred Chapter of HOKC, Inc.
P.O. Box 55363
Lexington, Kentucky 40505
kycolonelslexky@outlook.com

"Where Good Works and Camaraderie Abound" 

Chapter President: Colonel Kevin Bullock

Vice President: Colonel Alex “Cash” Olszowy

Treasurer: Colonel Vince Barber

Secretary: Colonel Lezlei Kelly

At-Large Members:

 Colonel Wade Abbott

Colonel Barbara Ellerbrook,

Colonel John Kiebler

Email:kycolonelslexky@outlook.com