Host Homes
Mentor Kenneth Oates Receives Ripple of Hope Award for Outstanding Commitment to the Individuals We Support
The MENTOR Network honored the 15th Annual Ripple of Hope Award recipients at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, Massachusetts on November 5. The winners were selected from nearly 300 nominations and represent the very best among us—employees, Mentors and other independent contractors—whose dedication to the individuals The MENTOR Network serves has led to positive change and created a legacy for others to follow.
Kenneth Oates, a host home provider with Arizona MENTOR, was among this year’s honorees.
“This year’s honorees are an inspiration and representative of so many throughout The MENTOR Network who carry out our mission every day,” said William McKinney, Chief Executive Officer of The MENTOR Network. “We celebrate their selflessness and dedication to enhancing the lives of others, and we thank them for setting a higher standard of care.”
In 2005, The MENTOR Network established the Ripple of Hope Awards to recognize The Network’s most outstanding employees, Mentors and independent contractors whose passion, energy and skill have created a positive impact in the lives of others. Whether they work in direct care, operations or supporting business roles, these outstanding employees and service providers create a “ripple of hope,” and a legacy of compassion and caring for others to follow.
The title of the award is inspired by the words of late U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy:
“Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.”
Helping Individuals Grow
Over the years, the two men Ken opened his home to have grown tremendously in their self-care, independence and ability to deal with challenges that may arise as a result of their disabilities.
“The environment that Ken provides to the individuals he’s welcomed into his home is one that promotes independence and education, as well as one that is safe and fun,” said
To learn more about Ken and meet the other Ripple of Hope Award recipients, please visit https://www.thementornetwork.com/rippleofhope.