June 5, 2020

Dear Residents,

I am writing to you today on behalf of Givens Communities in order to address the blatant systemic discrimination and social inequality our friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens of color continue to face.  These issues are here at our door, and we know that many of our residents, team members and their families have been adversely affected by them. The constant reemergence of violent actions against people of color proves that silence is not an option. Now more than ever, it is important to be courageous and stand up for what is right.

Givens Communities firmly believes that every citizen of our country deserves to be safe and free from unwarranted prejudice. Givens will continue to collaborate with local consultant Dr. Joseph Fox in working towards creating a more inclusive environment for our residents and team members. Dr. Fox has already provided an audit of Givens policies and procedures and provided preliminary feedback to our Cultural Inclusion Task Force on ways to improve. These changes are in process. Also, Givens will continue to partner with and sponsor the Asheville Martin Luther King Jr. Association.

Givens is committed to our mission of improving the lives of individuals through communities, services, and outreach. Accordingly, if you have any suggestions on ways Givens can further offer support to the community, please let us know.

We know these times are stressful and, in many cases, traumatic. We care deeply about your wellbeing and encourage you to reach out to Life Enrichment, Ministries, and other team members if you need support. Remember, as a Givens resident you have wonderful resources readily available to you. Please take advantage of them.

It is our hope that we will take this time to make a conscious effort to listen and learn from each other so that we may develop a deeper understanding and acceptance of one another. As American citizens, we encourage you to share your voices in a safe and productive way while we stand together to advocate for a better future.

With hope for that future,

Ken Partin

CEO Givens Communities