Fueled by the passion of our donors, volunteers, and advocates, A-KEEP has evolved from an exchange program to a global partnership facilitator and key cultural component in Alabama. For nearly 10 years, A-KEEP has worked closely with influential community members to determine the most pressing burdens on educational, economic, and cultural inequity in Alabama.

How Change Happens

We take steps to eliminate segregation and promote cultural understanding. We’ve listened to the concerns and suggestions of our neighbors, educators, and local businesses to develop a holistic approach that dramatically improves the quality of life for all community members.

We understand that sustainable progress requires:

• Harvest and promote diverse leadership that realize sustainable solutions for all

• Empowering educators to to unleash potential in themselves and learners

• Eliminating barriers to opportunity for both underserved migrant and native citizens of Alabama

• Cultivating vibrant communities through deep engagement at the local level

Our Model

As a bridge of cultural, economic, and educational understanding, we are tasked with the responsibility to listen and respond to the diverse points of view and priorities those we serve.

To act on this charge, we have intensified our efforts towards inclusive leadership with partnerships and residents of voice and action so that individuals, groups and organizations have avenues to make positive contributions to their communities.

Key Strategies

1. Recruit high school honor students in Montgomery to embody cultural differences and unite students of diverse backgrounds through communication, cooperation and service

2. Re-introduce the Alabama and Korean Youth Leadership Program for teens in both regions

3. Offer an immersive language and leadership experience through the Alabama Leadership Program for Koreans and the Korean Leadership Program for Alabamians

4. Expand economic possibilities in Alabama and Korea as a Global Partnership Facilitator

We equip passionate educators with the tools to contribute to the success of  Alabama’s students’ personal and academic growth. In doing so, teachers expand upon their own personal and professional development.

Key Strategies

1. Continue to offer Korean as a Second Language (KSL) programs for public and private school students in Alabama by utilizing learning plans endorsed by the National Foreign Language Center

2. Ensure programs are taught by certified Korean language instructors or volunteer native proficiency Korean speakers with a passion for education and a hunger for self-improvement

3. Introduce Korean as a Second Language (KSL) as an accredited course in Alabama middle and high schools

We believe everyone deserves a great place to live, work and learn. To ensure this is possible, we are steering towards improved advocacy for members of our communities who are notably disregarded by the systems in place to cultivate a thriving society for all.

Key Strategies

1. Continue our consultation services for Koreans in Alabama and expand to language access services for other limited English-proficiency individuals or organizations

2. Increase the breadth of organizations utilizing A-KEEP’s assistance for workforce consultation, recruitment and training to eliminate cultural misunderstandings in the workplace and open opportunities for employment

3. Pilot a certificate conversion program to sponsor global students and professions seeking gainful employment in the U.S.

Key Strategies

We envision an Alabama where everyone has the chance to take part in profoundly ingrained learning experiences. The cultural component of this goal cannot be ignored and we are taking steps to ensure cultural education and interactions are made accessible to broaden the worldviews of all members of our communities.

1. Bring cultural learning to Alabama in fresh and enjoyable new ways

2. Introduce performances, exhibitions, art, community conferences and signature events such as the Korean Cultural Experience

3. Advocate cross-cultural learning experiences and sharing knowledge

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