Like the rest of the country, Mark Stoops and Mitch Barnhart have kept close tabs on this week’s tragic events in Oklahoma. The UK head coach and athletics director shared compassion for the victims of Monday’s destructive tornado.They also share personal ties to the area. Barnhart and Stoops each have family who lives within a few miles of Moore, Okla.: Barnhart’s brother Eric, Stoops’ brothers Bob and Mike and the families of all three.Driven by sympathy and familiarity with the area and people affected, Stoops and Barnhart have decided to do something to help.”I have kept a close eye on the tragic events in Oklahoma this week,” Barnhart said. “My heart goes out to all those affected. My brother Eric lives three miles from where the tornado hit, so the devastation has hit close to home for me even though he is safe.””I am so thankful my family and friends are alright after the storms in Oklahoma,” Stoops said. “However, we are heartbroken for those affected by this tragedy.”Stoops, Barnhart and women’s basketball coach Matthew Mitchell will all donate to the American Red Cross’s tornado relief efforts. John Calipari announced his foundation will donate to the cause earlier this week as well.Now, the leaders of UK Athletics want Kentucky fans to join in.”We hope the Big Blue Nation will once again show its giving spirit,” Stoops said. “There’s only so much any of us can do on our own, but we make a real impact together.”Those wishing to donate after may call 859-253-1331 or 1-800-REDCROSS. Fans can also donate money online at RedCross.org or by texting “REDCROSS” to 90999 (the text will automatically donate $10). In person donations can be made in-person at Fayette Mall (corner of Nicholasville Road and Reynolds Road) on Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24 from 3:00 p.m. ET to 7:00 p.m.No matter how you donate, tweet with the hash tag #BBNcares to show that UK fans stand with the Oklahoma tornado victims.