Last Wednesday, the local chapter of non-profit held a fundraising reception at the brand new W hotel to kick off this year's KEENfest campaign. KEEN provides free of charge recreation activities ranging from swimming to horseback riding to music to baseball, for teens and young adults with disabilities. Participants in the program are paired with a corps of coaches trained to provide support while they engage in non-competitive activities designed not only to provide the physical activity all kids need, but a boost in self-confidence and social experience. Honorary Chairwoman Lindsay Czarniak of NBC News4 Sports and Chairwoman Amanda Polk (also spotted: Pamela Sorenson, Lana Orloff, Estee Portnoy & Aaron Jackson) guided the festivities which included a luxury auction with some truly unique lots up for grabs (such as a Michael Jordan signed basketball). Jones Lang LaSalle was the events principal sponsor.
Perhaps the most interesting part of KEEN is it's staff - nearly 100% of the entire operation's team, all over the country, is volunteer. Everyone from the coaches, to the coordinators, the the directors to the board offers up their time to bond with the amazing kids KEEN benefits. Greater DC Chapter Board President Burt Braverman described to me the extraordinary family atmosphere this unique attribute fosters. Coaches often hop from one chapter to another when they leave an area for work or school, and continue participating for years and years. If you are looking for a worthwhile organization, with a flexible commitment schedule you owe it to yourself and the children you may help, to check out KEEN.
For more information on KEEN programs and how you can get involved, head over to www.keengreaterdc.org.
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