January 26, 2022
As of today, I am halfway through my second week as the interim Chief Executive Officer and President of HumanKind, and I would very much like to thank Bob Dendy for his hard work and dedication to HumanKind for the past 18 years. As CEO, Bob led the transformation of HumanKind from its legacy identity as an orphan home to the dynamic, visionary organization it is today. His decision, reflects that commitment and his belief that the board and leadership are in the best position for HumanKind’s continued success and growth.
I have been at HumanKind for 10 years, and I am honored to serve this inspiring organization and its exceptional staff as the President and now interim CEO. It is with pride in our history of service and excitement for a bright future that I look forward to furthering our mission to serve the people in our community. At HumanKind, we believe that connecting with people, creating community and enhancing the well-being for all is not only our mission, but our calling in life. I’m incredibly proud to be a part of this team.
During this period of transition, the HumanKind Leadership Team will work closely with its Board of Directors to continue our progress in serving our clients across the Commonwealth of Virginia – from our office locations in Lynchburg, Richmond, Danville, Bedford, Hampton Roads, Northern Virginia, and Roanoke.
While this start of 2022 isn’t how we thought the year would begin, I know all of us will be resilient, embrace change and continue to do what we do best – support each other, help our neighbors and provide our community with the highest quality of services they need right now. And most of all, be kind to ourselves and each other. But what is not changing is our vision and steadfast focus on helping people – to instill hope and equip people with the tools to build a strong foundation for life. With an emphasis on inclusion, we help individuals and families who face any number of life’s challenges. Our programs cover everything from financial education to mental health counseling, from early childhood resources to services for adults with developmental disabilities. We bring our strength and experience to our work every day because we believe strong individuals and families build stronger communities.
Together we are building the HumanKind that our community needs today, tomorrow and in the future. An organization that will persevere as the most compassionate, solution driven, and innovative HumanKind yet — characterized by a leading presence in supporting the community’s resilience; focused growth to adapt to the challenges individuals and families are facing right now as well as anticipate the challenges they will face ahead; an uncompromising focus on high quality service and operational excellence; and an investment in the development of our people – who are at the center and the heart of HumanKind.
I am thankful to all the leaders of HumanKind that have brought us to today’s high level of community impact. To be given the opportunity to lead our beloved organization, clients and community into the next chapter of our history — is truly an honor.
Thank you again for your support and your continued hard work and dedication.
Stan Southworth
President / Interim CEO