The World Harmony Run's Torch-Bearer Award was given to Charlene Boyd, Chief Operating Officer and Regional Administrator for Providence Health Services Senior Community Services Division on June 25. She was presented the award in the Providence Mount St. Vincent lunchroom by King County Executive Dow Constantine. Residents and staff filled the room, and Explorers Club children from Intergenerational Learning Center at the facility sat in the front row to hear the presentation.

"She has championed the ideal serving the whole person, not just treating the person's condition or illness, but engaging body, mind and spirit," said Constantine in a speech. "She's expanded Mt. St. Vincent volunteer programs. Under her direction, residents are cared for in 'neighborhoods' dividing a large facility into smaller more personal communities. She has testified before Congress in support of policies that promote and protect human rights and dignity for all, especially the poor and vulnerable."

Boyd appeared humbled when handed a bouquet of flowers and a medallion to place around her neck. Following the presentation about the World Harmony Run from its volunteer staff, the kids carried paper "torches" and hiked around the building. The World Harmony runners continued on a run around Alki Beach.

According to the World Harmony Run website, "The World Harmony Run is a global relay that seeks to promote international friendship and understanding. As a symbol of harmony, runners carry a flaming torch, passing it from hand to hand travelling through over 100 nations around the globe. The World Harmony Run does not seek to raise money or highlight any political cause, but simply strives to create goodwill among peoples of all nations."

For more, check out: www.worldharmonyrun.org

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