IN BOWLING Green, through the everyday hustle and bustle, there’s a young woman whose heart beats to a different rhythm. 25-year-old Presley Nash, with her compassionate spirit and determination, has been quietly weaving a tapestry of hope and kindness in her community. At just 16 years old, a simple yet profound Christmas wish led her to embark on a journey of giving. This laid the foundation for the creation of Presley’s Promise, a beacon of hope for those less fortunate.
Nash’s story isn’t just about starting a nonprofit; it’s a narrative of personal growth, empathy, and a desire to give back to a community that once rallied around her family. As a child grappling with a rare disease, Nash experienced firsthand the warmth and support of her community. This life-changing experience planted seeds of gratitude and empathy that would only continue to grow.
Her journey began in the company of her mother, volunteering at ‘Room in the Inn,’ a local initiative for homeless people. Here, Nash was confronted with the harsh realities of life. It was so starkly different from her own that this exposure stirred something within her — a desire to help and to make a difference.
“I have been lucky in that way,” she reflected, acknowledging her privileged upbringing and the desire it sparked to help those less fortunate.
“I get what I want, but I know it’s not the same for everyone,” she admitted.
That Christmas, about 10 years ago, Nash’s wish was not for gadgets or clothes. It was to bring light into the lives of others. She asked for money to donate to those in need.
“I told my parents I wanted money for Christmas. But this money wasn’t for me. My parents made me think about it for a few weeks, and if that is still what I wanted, they said I could have it,” Nash explained.
Initially met with hesitancy by her parents, the request soon became the foundation of her life’s work.
“It started as what we called a ‘Christmas wish,’” she said, her eyes lighting up at the memory.
What started as a ripple soon turned into a wave of generosity and support. Nash’s Christmas wish caught the attention of her community, bringing forth a surge of donations.
“I started just doing donations and monetary gifts,” she said, recalling the early days of her mission.
She received donations from all over.
“My dad had friends in places like Indiana who were just sending me money in the mail.”
When COVID-19 struck, Presley wasn’t able to work due to her medical history, leaving her more time to dedicate to her nonprofit. She turned to her love for art, intertwining it with her mission. Crafting T-shirts and stickers, she found a creative avenue to support her cause, with all proceeds aiding people without housing.
Presley said all the money she makes goes to people who need a home, which is a testament to her selfless dedication and innovative spirit.
But Nash’s impact extends far beyond financial aid. She has built strong connections with local organizations like Hotel Inc., providing essential items to those in need.
“Sometimes I donate money, and other times it is toiletries like soap and shampoo,” she explained, highlighting her multifaceted approach to aiding homeless people. This hands-on involvement speaks volumes of her commitment to making a real, tangible difference in people’s lives.
Her efforts could not be done alone. The community’s involvement, as she noted, is a significant part of her mission’s success.
“A lot of people in the community bring me old shampoo and soap bottles from hotels,” Nash said, showcasing how her initiative has turned into a collective effort, embraced and supported by the Bowling Green community.
Nash’s humility shines through as she reflects on the impact of her decade-long journey.
“I would probably say, over the last 10 years, I have been able to help quite a bit,” she stated, downplaying her efforts.
Yet, the reality is that she has touched countless lives, bringing hope and assistance to those who needed it the most.
The support and involvement of her family have been a cornerstone of her success.
“My mom and my dad take part in helping me,” she acknowledged, highlighting the crucial role her family has played in bringing Presley’s Promise to where it is today. Whether it’s setting up at vendor fairs or providing moral support, their presence has been a constant source of strength and encouragement.
At the heart of Nash’s work is a profound personal connection to her community, driven by her own experiences.
“One of the main reasons why I do what I do is, when I was little, I was born with a very rare disease. And the Bowling Green community rallied around my parents and my family to help pay hospital bills and even the mortgage,” she shared, revealing the deep roots of her commitment to giving back.
“That made me want to give back to the same community.”
Her choice to focus on supporting homeless people also stems from a keen sense of awareness and empathy.
Presley chooses to support homeless people because she feels they do not get enough support.
It’s a choice driven by a desire to fill a gap, to offer help where it’s most needed.
As Nash looks to the future, her passion for her work remains as strong as ever.
“I really like what I am doing. It feels good in my heart,” she said, her words resonating with the joy and satisfaction of making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Nash continues to be a symbol of hope in the Bowling Green community. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when intentions are fueled by compassion, dedication, and community support. Through Presley’s Promise, she has provided aid and inspired others to look beyond themselves and contribute to the greater good. Her journey, rooted in a Christmas wish, has blossomed into a lifetime of giving, touching hearts, and changing lives. GN
