DIRECTOR'S WELCOME

FROM OUR APS LEADERS

As I wrote my message for the first edition of the APS Insider back in January 2020, I had no idea what this year had in store for us. Like many of you, I planned for a smooth year with clear deadlines, exciting opportunities such as the first Joint APS conference and more. However, we were thrown the curve ball of a lifetime with the COVID-19 pandemic. It forced us to change our business practices and lifestyles overnight. The perseverance, flexibility, integrity and creativity you all have shown solidified what I have known for a long time; we have a remarkable APS team that is resilient and exemplifies admirable dedication to serving vulnerable adults. Kathy Morgan APS Director Words do not begin to encompass the pride and gratitude I feel for our people. On a “normal” day, our work with APS requires patience, persistence and a great deal of care for others. Those requirements have been amplified during this time and it’s amazing how people rose to the challenge to continue best serving others.

I am so proud of my staff for continuously working to improve even during times of challenges. Even with the new strains of daily life, you’ve risen to the occasion and worked towards the best possible outcomes. Juggling home life and quality work has been no small feat. Feel proud in what you’ve accomplished and know we’re here to support you however we can.

This edition, I wanted to focus on really showing appreciation for all that you do. I also want to encourage each and every one of you to continue tapping into your support system and practicing self-care. We’ve taken on a lot, and it’s critical that we remember to take care of ourselves before caring for others.

Here are a few things I’d like to encourage you to try:

Take a break. Many of our vacations got canceled this year, but that doesn’t mean we don’t deserve a break. Work with your teammates and find a day to use some annual leave time or your personal holiday. Unplug, relax and focus on what you need.

Reach out to others. The way we interact with our colleagues and support systems has changed. Send a Skype message to someone you haven’t talked to in a while or schedule an extra 10 minutes onto a meeting to just check-in with other people. Those kinds of connections help us collectively become stronger.

The words “thank you” do not express the recognition you deserve, but it’s a start. I can’t thank you enough for the amazing work you do every single day. We’re here to support you in all aspects of your life and are proud to be surrounded by some of Washington’s best employees.