Persevere – [per-se-ver] – vi to continue steadfastly, esp in face of discouragement. – n perseve’rance, act or state of persevering. – adv perseve’ringly. [Fr perseverer – L perseverare – perseveres, very strict – pfx per, very, severus, strict.]

Recently, the programs in New York State were presented with an opportunity. An opportunity to sharpen our teamwork skills while exercising our strength and perseverance.

As veterans in the human services field, we are no strangers to shifting gears in correspondence with on-going funding and regulatory changes...or as some would coin; revolutions. Recent modifications have had a profound impact on our structural landscape across the board as we were faced this time with a reduction of services, as opposed to a more typical change in services.

The transformation, although still in the works, has been strenuous for all involved. As one can imagine, a reduction of services naturally equates to a reduction in staff as well as global re-assignments and an immediate adaptation of what would be considered ‘the norm’. Accomplishing a viable and respective outcome in this case has necessitated extreme patience and understanding, true grit, a shift from conventional thinking, the spirit of cooperation and unwavering support for our mission. Once again, the administrative and field staff proved to hone all of those skills and more. A high note of acknowledgement must also go out to the individuals we serve who were effected by this recent complexity. Their fortitude has lent to a productive resolution to this transition.

Despite all of the adversity, we are constantly reassured by the support, guidance and expertise that we receive from each other as well as from the Corporate Team, Business Office and Human Resources. Together, we will continue to persevere as we move forward with our planning and continued shared vision. Thank you, everyone.