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Dear Friends,
In this month of January, 2017, we are all witnesses to change going on in our world. I say our “world” because we really do live in what a lot of people call a “global society.” So, while the United States of America brings in a new administration, some people are very happy and other people are very concerned. But we all have to deal with the fact that change is here.
I remember many years ago when another new administration was coming into office in 1980. The President at that time said that “Government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem.” Many of us in the field of human services were very concerned about the volcanic shifts that would take place and the federal, state and local governments that funded many of the services we provide.
The good news is that we survived that era and we have grown. I feel confident that we will survive and be fine with the latest changes. I also believe firmly that the Good Lord looks over the work and the mission of Volunteers of America. So my friends, take a deep breath and know that we will all be okay.
Let’s just keep doing the things that we do so well.
This includes the work of Sherlyn Hughes, program manager of our Mentoring Children of Promise Program. She was just named our Employee of the Year 2016. Sherlyn is a lady who has been working diligently with Volunteers of America for years. She is making a difference in the lives of young people.
Things that we do well also include the work of Carl Payton, a facilitator in Supported Living Services. Carl is going through a difficult time because one of the people who he has worked with for 27 years just recently passed away. As Carl said, “She stole my heart and she will never be forgotten.” These things will not change. We will continue to love and care for the people that we are called to serve.
We will keep doing things, like what our Residential Reentry Center staff is doing. Director Timi Olugbenga, Assistant Director Doug Taylor, and Security Specialist Katherine Matthews were in San Antonio recently to accept the American Correctional Association Accreditation Award. I was able to join them and participated in a discussion with a panel of commissioners. I was so humbled and impressed by the way that Timi, Doug and Katherine were able to answer all the questions in such a caring, thoughtful and professional way.
So, while change in our world is always inevitable, I like to think about the things that inevitably won’t change. It’s the spirit, the professionalism and the love and caring that each of you provide to the people that we are called to help.
Until next time, take care and God bless.
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