Letter from President and Executive Director, Patrick Brendle 

Christmas is almost here, Thanksgiving has passed. This time of year is my opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments that our employees have achieved as well as look forward to many successes in 2012. Last week at a meeting, some employees were recognized for their years of service. Some have a few months while many are 5+ years and a few even 10+ years. Using some rough old fashioned math, our direct care staff have in excess of 810 years of combined service and our administrative staff have over 110 years of combined service.

These years represent more than just years of employment, they represent years that our individuals have been able to live in stable and loving homes or in homes on their own with some support. We have seen many people thrive in all of these environments and achieve great personal success. We have seen individuals purchase their own homes. We have seen children who had multiple placements arrive in a companion home and live there for most of their life. We have seen individuals take head on the challenges that life has given them and achieved goals never thought of as possible. We have seen some folks get knocked down by challenges and after dusting themselves off went right after that same challenge. We are all blessed to not only have the opportunity to see these challenges fall by the side and others taken up, but in many cases our employees have been right there offering support, encouragement, and guidance—sharing in that success.

As we gather around with our families this year for Christmas, I charge that each of you take stock in your accomplishments and the accomplishments of those that you serve and consider part of your family. I ask that you continue your diligence and very hard work and know that when you face a challenge, this company stands ready to support you, dust you off and encourage you to get right back in there to face that obstacle.

Merry Christmas and may the New Year find you and your families blessed.

• January 25 Tulsa Companion Meeting

• February 9 Companion Informational Meeting in OKC