THERE IS A SUPERHERO INSIDE ALL OF US,
WE JUST NEED THE COURAGE TO PUT ON THE CAPE.
EXCELLENCE- WE ARE CONSTANTLY IMPROVING
The Arc Baltimore is committed to a consistent realization of program quality that is responsive to person-driven expectations as well as high-level standards that are attainable, yet aspirational. At our core, the value of each person we support drives us to seek out and achieve excellence throughout our organization.
“Put on the Cape” blog series by CEO Kathleen Durkin
OUR VALUES IN A COVID WORLD – EXCELLENCE
5/14/20
COVID 19 is testing the strength of our workforce, our processes, our IT systems, and our financial position. We are rising to the challenge at every level.
“At our core, the value of each person we support drives us….” Today, excellence is being stronger than our quarantine fatigue.
I recognize how hard this is and will admit to struggling with it myself. But, I truly believe that because of our adherence to CDC guidelines, especially by our direct support professionals, we have done all that we can to keep people healthy, and reduced their risk. The people we support have stayed home and the staff that comes and goes from their homes, frequently wash hands, practice social distancing protocols in their personal lives, and have worn masks for their shifts with the recognition that the mask protect the person they work for (and themselves as well). The behavior of the staff directly impacts the health and safety of the people they support.
Restrictions are beginning to lift in Maryland but the danger of COVID hasn’t changed. We know, that since we represent some of our most vulnerable citizens, whether due to age, medical needs, or simply a lack of understanding of social distancing or adherence to safe practices, we need to stay vigilant. It will not be easy.
In our field, we recognize that risk is part of life, but we also have a responsibility to lessen that risk when it comes to someone’s life. The community of people with developmental disabilities is counting on us to think beyond ourselves, our discomfort, our pandemic fatigue, and put them first.
We are starting to discuss what our “re-opening” will look like in the days to come. It will be based on CDC and State guidance and will be driven by the health and safety of the people we support and our staff. There are many logistics to figure out as we look to phase-in services and adapt as needed.
For now, as always, we believe that program quality and excellence is about relationships and connections. Please continue to help people connect with each other through social media, zoom, facetime, letters, photos, etc. We have already started to reach out through virtual platforms to engage in meaningful day activities, training, and education. The opportunities are expanding as we respond to people’s interests and we are up to the challenge!
The value of each person we support truly drives us to seek out and achieve excellence throughout our organization.
