Keystone Chapter, Associated Builders & Contractors Inc. (ABC), has won the Award of Excellence and has been elected to the Honor Roll in the 2003 Association’s Advance America Awards program. The Advance America Awards program is a national competition sponsored by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), Washington, D.C.

ABC Keystone received the Award of Excellence for its ABC Building Wishes Construction Rodeo and the Honor Roll award for its Keystone Construction Academy. In addition, the ABC Construction Rodeo is in the running to receive a Summit Award to be presented in late summer.

The Building Wishes Construction Rodeo was created to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation; promote the construction industry as a viable trade; and highlight the skills of various craftspeople. Showcasing the talents of its members, the rodeo has raised more than $250,000 for the foundation over the years. The foundation uses the funds to grant wishes of children battling life-threatening illnesses.

To reach its goals of increasing sponsorships and industry awareness, ABC Keystone members donate money, time, equipment and employees. In 2002, the association exceeded its overall expectations in sponsorships, contestants, public attendance and media coverage.

“ABC Keystone’s programs truly embody the spirit of the Associations Advance America campaign. It is an honor and an inspiration to showcase these activities as an example of the many contributions associations are making to advance American society,” remarked Michael S. Olson, ASAE president.

Now, in its 13th year, the Associations Advance America Awards program recognizes associations that propel America forward — with innovative projects in education, skills training, standards-setting, business and social innovation, knowledge creation, citizenship, and community service.

For more information, call 717/653-8106 or visit www.abckeystone.org.