Founded in 2009, Keystone Opportunity Center is Souderton-based social services organization that annually supports more than 5,000 families and individuals in need
Volunteers at the Keystone Opportunity Center were treated to an appreciation breakfast Saturday, April 18 to recognize their thousands of hours of service to community members in need.
Held at the Generations of Indian Valley senior center, the event brought together Keystone staff members and volunteers from across the organization’s various departments.
“Your generosity allows us to focus our efforts on our mission,” said Keystone Executive Director Brandon Trombetta to the crowd. “Knowing that in your hands, we have everyone covered, and we can provide the vital services we need to the community.”
Founded in 2009, Keystone Opportunity Center is Souderton-based social services organization that annually supports more than 5,000 families and individuals in need through a comprehensive array of services, including a food pantry, a housing program and adult education services.
Keystone currently has over 160 volunteers that individually donate upwards of 10,000 hours of volunteer service per year, performing tasks such as stocking and distributing food, assisting with housing repairs, supporting educational programs and helping families access integrated services.
“They really put their heart and soul into it,” said volunteer coordinator Joanne Kratz. “There’s no way you can do the work without them. The volunteers are what keeps us going.”
During the event, Keystone awarded special recognition to some notable volunteers, including Cindy Crouthamel, Paul Bisio, Beth Hartman, Joe Piccolo, Adam Schwartz, Jim C. and Jim Gill.
In addition, Schwartz, who was not in attendance, was awarded the “Karen Kispert Volunteer of the Year Award.” Named after the former Keystone volunteer and board member, the award recognized Schwartz’s 15-year service to Keystone and his central role in the organization’s food pantry and Fresh for All program, which provides weekly produce to families in need.
Volunteers described the work as rewarding and encouraged others to get involved.
“Being of service to the community and helping people in need is definitely something I feel called to do,” said Bisio, an education services volunteer. “When you find a role that aligns with your passions, it can make a meaningful difference for both you and your community.”
“Bringing this food to community members who don’t have food or have very limited food, it’s helped me realize we have more than enough, and we should be helping people,” said Piccolo. “Helping people is more important than fame, money or glory.”
“You’re not chasing a company’s bottom line,” said Jim C., a housing volunteer. “You’re helping people’s lives, and that what makes it truly rewarding. Just do it.”
The event kicked off National Volunteer Week, running from April 19 to 25. As part of the week, Keystone planned to spotlight one volunteer per day on its social media pages to recognize their service and motivate others to join the organization’s mission.
“It’s to honor our volunteers and let the community know that they’re the drivers that keep this going,” said Trombetta. “And if they want to contribute and volunteer, we welcome them to come.”
Trombetta concluded the breakfast with a message of immense gratitude to Keystone’s volunteers, underscoring their centrality to the organization and profound impact in the community.
“We see ourselves as a beacon of hope for the community,” said Trombetta. “All of you give yourselves in ways that you may not have the skills or knowledge or training behind, but you come in ready to learn and do whatever we need to be done to service the community. Thank you all for everything you do every day of every year, because without you, we truly wouldn’t be able to do this.”
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