PASSIONIST EARTH AND SPIRIT CENTER

October 12, 2021 | 0 COMMENTS | by admin

I am writing to offer an endorsement of the nonprofit Salaam Network (TSN) of Louisville, KY, as part of that organization’s application for a 2020 Renewal Award from The Atlantic and Allstate. I am the executive director of the Passionist Earth & Spirit Center, an interfaith nonprofit spirituality center, also based in Louisville, and we have had a close, collaborative relationship with the Salaam Network since its founding. Since TSN has no physical building space, we have lent our own space for many of their planning meetings. Additionally, we help TSN promote their events through our monthly e-newsletter, and many of the participants in our programming are also involved in TSN’s events.

I believe strongly in the mission of TSN, to provide free educational opportunities that highlight the common values amongst the three Abrahamic religions, as a way to promote peace, justice, and understanding. With no paid staff and a minimal operating budget, TSN has nonetheless managed to execute a large number of rigorous, engaging public presentations from highly knowledgeable experts. I have no doubt that such events have built essential interfaith bridges and have helped mitigate stereotypes about the Muslim community, both in Louisville and more generally. A cornerstone of these accomplishments has been the tireless efforts of Dr. Riffat Hassan, professor emerita of the University of Louisville, along with many other committed volunteers.

An Atlantic Renewal Award would enable TSN to take the next essential step of organizational maturity and capacity building: paid staff. I heartily recommend TSN as an organization worthy of such investment and capable stewarding it well. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Kyle T. Kramer, M.Div, Executive Director

Passionist Earth and Spirit Center

December 1, 2019