Beslan Assistance - Keystone Human Services International

Keystone Human Services International

Keystone Supports Beslan

Frequently Asked Questions

How will my donation be used?: Donations will be used to support counseling and therapy services for children and families in Beslan. Our first effort was a comprehensive training and consultation process with 10 psychologists from Beslan that was held in Moscow October 19 - 28, 2004. We will use donations to cover those costs first, after which the funds raised in excess of those costs will be used to meet additional needs identified by the psychologists from Beslan.
How can I be confident that my contribution will benefit people in need in Beslan?: Keystone is an IRS approved 501 (c)(3) nonprofit agency with over 30 years of experience. Keystone meets very rigorous western audit standards. KPMG conducts an annual audit of Keystone's finances and Keystone submits an IRS 990 financial report to the IRS on an annual basis. Keystone employees will directly administer and distribute funds in support of services in Beslan.
How do you work to assure important needs are met in Beslan?: Ten psychologists from Beslan are our partners and they, more than anyone, understand the individual and community needs there. The needs described on this web site reflect their perspectives and judgments on what will be most effective in helping the people of Beslan.
Do you see your involvement short term or long term?: Our commitment is long term. The physical and emotional wounds will be life long. Trauma counseling for many children should be available for years. Children are very resilient; however, in circumstances of extreme trauma, counseling and therapy are essential to minimize subsequent serious emotional symptoms.
Will funds be used to help Beslan counselors access state-of-the-art clinical skills?: The counselors and psychologists in Beslan are highly educated professionals. Trauma counseling is a very specialized intervention and we are working with our colleagues to assure they have access to state-of-the-art clinical and counseling models.
Is Keystone a religious organization?: No, Keystone is not a religious organization. We work effectively with people of all faiths and religions. We have a concern for all children and believe that acts of terror bring us all together in a common experience making us all brothers, sisters and colleagues. We believe that we must share resources, expertise and experience, and stand together in opposition to such acts of terror.
Is there a need for more counseling services in Beslan?: Yes. Currently there are about 14 psychologists and counselors working in Beslan. We estimate that this resource should be doubled.
How much does it cost to fund a psychologist?: The monthly cost for salary and benefits is about $200 - $300 U.S. Dollars, or 6000 - 9000 Rubles, for each full time psychologist.
Can I provide funding for a specific psychologist position?: Yes. There are many highly qualified psychologists and counselors in Russia that would be very willing to work in Beslan. We encourage funding partners to provide funding of 100 - 300 U.S. Dollars per month as support for a specific staff person. If desired, a staff person can communicate with their sponsor via email, sharing information on needs and progress.
Are you working to help children return home to Beslan?: Yes. Many of the counselors are working to help children who have been seriously wounded to return home. It is important for children who are trauma victims to return to a normal life as much as possible. For many children this will mean intensive home and school based support to meet their needs.
Will all funds donated be used for the benefit of people in Beslan?: Yes.
May I talk to people directly involved in the project?: Yes. Contact information is available on this web site.