Sandy Keshen
Toronto, Ontario
How is your Hero working to make the world a better place?
Sandy Keshen: visionary, champion, pioneer, trailblazer, pacesetter and passionate advocate, not only for Jewish persons with a developmental disability and their families, but for all. Sandy has been at the front of Jewish social services in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area for over thirty-five years. She has dedicated her life to working 'towards a better future'. A visionary plans for the future with original thoughts and wisdom. The Reena Community Residence on the Lebovic Campus in Vaughan is Sandy's vision. It is an intentional inclusive community where persons with developmental disabilities will find a home in the heart of a vibrant Jewish environment. When the Ontario Government closed institutions, Sandy advocated for all Jewish residents to be placed with Reena. Sandy believes in partnerships that build quality and has pioneered relationships with Jewish and other faith and culture groups working to improve supports, services, housing, jobs and inclusion for persons with a developmental disability. Reena is applauded by Provincial, Regional and Municipal governments as a pace setting leader establishing standards of achievement for others. Sandy is recognized by name, face and reputation by politicians at all levels of government. Under her skillful leadership Reena has gained prominence and a pristine reputation. Sandy's passion and care for persons with a developmental disability and their families translates into helping anyone who asks. This humble, wise lady is most deserving of this honor, which she would never seek and would accept only to further her cause of supporting persons with a developmental disability to become all that they can be.
How has your Hero impacted your life and inspired you?
Touchstones test the purity of metal. They measure and determine genuineness. Sandy Keshen is my touchstone. Her personal standards and integrity are the criteria to which I aspire. Her compassion, energy and commitment are a lighthouse to guide me and a road map to follow. It is my privilege to work with her. She challenges me to be better and to work harder and longer to improve the lives of others. The two most important days in life are the day we are born and the day we discover 'why'. Knowing Sandy has broadened, shaped and focused my 'why'.