How diverse is Woods? Our staff comes from more than 50 countries. On October 25, the Monday following United Nations Day, Woods recognized the value of cultural differences and the wealth of it we enjoy. We named this celebration “One Woods. One World.” day to honor the diversity of our staff and commemorate United Nations Day.
The morning began with Woods employees and residents gathered at Common Grounds to commemorate the day. The American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania, staff from Pennsylvania State Representative Frank Farry and State Senator Robert “Tommy” Tomlinson’s offices, and 6abc joined us.
Woods President and CEO Tine Hansen-Turton opened the event by introducing the audience to our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee, formed to ensure every person in our Woods community is recognized and heard. As part of the event, we wanted to grow awareness amongst staff of the work of the EDI committee and opportunities for participation.
Hansen-Turton announced that the hanging of flags of more than 50 countries representing the birthplaces of our staff was finished. You can drive on any part of Woods’ campus and see the flags flying. Our EDI committee made this possible.
Regional Chief Executive Officer Guy Triano of the American Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania took the stage next. He read aloud a proclamation that highlighted the importance of United Nations Day, explained the shared values of Woods and the Red Cross, and recognized “One Woods. One World.” day.
“We talked about this a few months ago – this idea of bringing these two organizations together,” Triano said. “They both celebrate humanity, volunteerism, and unity together. Our organizations align, and that’s very important to the Red Cross.”
“At the core of our mission is an understanding that every individual is exceptional,” Hansen-Turton said.
As the event concluded, Woods and the Red Cross launched a community volunteering campaign, “Cards for Peace” where everyone is encouraged to write a letter of gratitude for veterans and peacekeeping troops.
Here’s how you can contribute:
- Create a card appreciating military service
- Send that card to:
Woods Services
c/o Communications Office
P.O. Box 36
Langhorne, PA 19047-0036
- Call Cheryl Kauffman at 215-750-4255 with any questions!
From there, Woods will make a bulk delivery to those abroad and the Coatesville VA Medical Center.
“We are so proud of Woods, and this doesn’t get said enough,” said Ryan Skoczylas, Chief of Staff for Senator Tomlinson. “When we’re in Harrisburg, we’re proud to talk about Woods.”
