We are telling a lot of really great stories lately, stories of our people rising above their disabilities and finding their abilities to be successful in this community. We are telling stories of the strong family support behind their success. These are stories our community needs to see. These are GREAT stories and I am grateful that our entire staff has played a part in gathering the information needed to tell them. Thank you, everyone, and please, keep them coming.
The stories that our community will likely never see are the ones that take all of our time, energy, and heart. In just the past couple of weeks we have:
- had to place a homeless individual who was found living on the streets of Marion
- taken the responsibility of two young children whose grandmother had been raising them and she cannot do it anymore
- just a few days left to find one of our more challenging individuals a home because he has exhausted all of his options due to violent behavior
- consumed several hours trying to make a family happy with the transition of their children who have aged out of school-aged programs
- and many others that are equally as challenging
These are the stories that make us the protector of those with developmental disabilities. These are the times that all of you really step up to get busy and fight for health and safety. Life is about give and take and I’m proud our staff is filled with the fierce fight to provide for our people. I’m proud that you have a balance of tough love, negotiation skills, and above all, patience. Even when you don’t have the time, you take the time to listen, to provide guidance, to dig up resources and to get the job done.
THESE are the stories that our community will never hear. But I want you to know, I hear about them. I know that you are working hard for our community and those we serve and I am very proud of the obstacles that you overcome on a daily basis.
I just wanted to take this time to tell you THANK YOU! Keep up the great work.
You are appreciated.
Cheryl A. Plaster, Superintendent
