Many unemployed men end up spending a lot of time at home doing nothing. Feeling isolated, they often have too much coffee and tobacco, too little exercise, and not enough socialising where they can share their frustrations or deal with their traumatic experiences. Keystone offers a safe place for men from the vulnerable layers of society. Many of them are struggling with unemployment, poverty, lack of self-esteem, trauma etc., but Keystone gives these vulnerable men an opportunity to improve their physical, social, and mental health through exercise, group discussions and new supportive relationships. Keystone’s physical activities and supportive relationships also have a multiplying effect of positive behaviours in other areas of life, most often immediately experienced by the families of these men. Dr Esam has been one of the most committed members of our groups. He has become like an unofficial volunteer staff member, always looking for ways to serve and help the group. He takes attendance, participates in the discussions, and encourages the other men. Dr Esam is trained as a dentist, but he is not allowed to work here in Jordan. He offered to lead an extra session on dental hygiene and oral health for the group. He did a great job and the group appreciated his session very much. He was so happy for the opportunity to share his expertise and contribute in his own unique way to the community.

This man speaks of the dynamic relational and inner life that develops when participants move through Keystone’s 3-to-6-month training.

“Everyone has faced different challenges in their lives,” Hamza says. “If one of us cannot walk through one of these challenges, a [fellow] participant can help him overcome this challenge.

Many unemployed men end up spending a lot of time at home doing nothing. Feeling isolated, they often have too much coffee and tobacco, too little exercise,

“Before,” shares Hamza, “my relationships were limited. Now, in the project, my relationships grow and grow.”

Ahmed holds dear the opportunity he has to illustrate to the participants their worth in the eyes of their Creator.