Churchill Downs turns 'Winsday' into a community win for Louisville nonprofits

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The horses weren't the only winners at Churchill Downs on Wednesday of Derby week -- a day now known as "Winsday."

The track rebranded for "Winsday" and partnered with the Community Foundation of Louisville as a way to give back to the community and area nonprofits.

Some of the proceeds from ticket sales were donated to organizations including Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Kentuckiana, Feed Louisville, Pandora Productions, the Louisville Orchestra and 46 other nonprofits helping people across our area.

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Here's how it worked -- guests purchased Winsday tickets through any of the registered nonprofits at this link. Then, for every box seat they sell, Churchill Downs donates $5 back to that nonprofit for each seat.

There were plenty of hats, fascinators and fancy suits, but race fans were focused on helping others.

Critically Loved was one of the organizations benefiting in a big way. Founder TyiaLynn Scott said the nonprofit supports families with chronically ill children.

"I’m so thankful for all the nonprofits who are going to benefit from this today, and the impact it’s going to have on our community is going to be amazing." Scott added, "it’s such a community building event, and the donations are going back into our programming."

Many in the crowd agreed that Winsday was a win-win. "The race, Churchill Downs, is such a big part of Kentucky, and to know that today is going to charity and something that’s a great cause feels amazing," said racing fan Tyra Anderson.

"Just being able to help so many people. They give back to families and children. It’s a good feeling," said Cassandra Dawley.

On top of the proceeds from tickets, Churchill Downs also matched the charities with horses for races throughout the day. The winning horses got additional donated funds from the track.

If you'd like to see which nonprofits took part in Winsday, here's a list of organizations, if you'd like to make a donation, as well.

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