The Keystone Times Fall 2008
Charlie Hooker and Carolyn Kunkel honored at first “Open World” recognition event
Melissa Kreidler, Charles Hooker, Carolyn Kunkel, John Kunkel
On May 20, 2008, over 70 distinguished individuals, including Congressional leaders, grantees and hosts, gathered at the Library of Congress to attend the first Open World.
Executive Director of the Open World Leadership Center John O’Keefe and U.S. Ambassador James Collins awarded 25 hosts and their sponsoring organizations with certificates honoring their exemplary work in support of Open World exchanges.
Open World is an international program funded by the Library of Congress that pairs host organizations (i.e. Keystone Human Services International, KHSI) with leading experts from emerging nations who are interested in learning about our unique system of community-based services.
With a Mission to develop opportunities throughout the world in support of self-determination, choice and the inherent worth of all individuals, KHSI’s global context is a natural outgrowth of Keystone’s Vision.
Carolyn Kunkel, one of Keystone’s most dedicated international hosts, was singled out for recognition, as was KHSI CEO Charles W. Hooker, III.
“We feel very honored and privileged to have been awarded this marvelous recognition,” commented Charles Hooker, CEO of Keystone Service Systems, Inc., Keystone Human Services International and Senior Vice-President of KHS.
“Keystone has a solid track record in fostering community-based resources in the Russian Federation and Eastern Europe, as is evidenced by our successful community-based programs in Russia and Moldova. As a continuing partner in the Open World program, Keystone is thrilled to be further developing this spirit of partnership with our Russian counterparts by welcoming them to Pennsylvania and sharing the fundamentals of our community-based success.”
Most recently, Keystone Service Systems, Inc. was awarded a grant by the Open World Russia Civic Hosting Program to host two small groups of Russian and Moldovan professionals interested in learning about Keystone’s approach to community-based health and human services.
Under the guidelines of the grant, Keystone’s training focused on familiarizing its Russian visitors regarding the effectiveness and viability of community programs, services and educational efforts that encourage our citizens to become healthy, self-sufficient and productive members of society.
Activities included visits to health care facilities, utilizing Pinnacle Health’s community-based health care system … schools and student assistance programs … community action programs … social service and government agencies … and other service provider organizations. U.S/Russian delegations examined issues surrounding AIDS/HIV, Trauma Counseling, Head Start programs, special education, Autism Services, disability rights and the prevention and treatment of infections, diseases and other medical conditions that are prevalent in Russia. Keystone’s broad-based work in philanthropy and volunteerism through The Keystone Partnership was also part of the visitors’ professional training.
Comments Carolyn Kunkel, “It’s such a thrill to play a small, but meaningful role in furthering Keystone’s Vision of advancing the human spirit. The more I host and welcome Keystone’s guests from Russia, the more we all recognize the things we have in common. What moves Keystone is the same thing that moves people the world over … the importance of home, family and community. If I can play a part in fostering these ideals and the concept of choice beyond our own boundaries, then I am honored to do so. The point is, Keystone believes there are no boundaries when it comes to the inherent worth of all people … which is precisely why Keystone is a part of my life.”
Those interested in hosting or supporting Keystone’s participation in the Open World program are encouraged to call Melissa Kreidler at (717) 232-7509, ext. 139 or visit keystonehumanservices.org.
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