Each year in September, we sound the call to recognize the heroic efforts of human services professionals that work directly to care for children and adults with disabilities and life challenges. Across our country, September 12-18 is known as National Direct Support Professionals Week, highlighting the importance of the direct care profession, and celebrating those that have chosen to serve.

At Seven Hills, we certainly recognize this week and the national importance of the common celebration. A collective voice across our Country provides a powerful statement of support and helps put a face on the unique caregivers who sacrifice to help and heal others. But at Seven Hills, we celebrate, promote, and advocate for our direct care staff each day. It is a constant in my work, ensuring that the vital care you provide to people is recognized and valued. You allow people who are marginalized to build a life of purpose and enjoy a life of comfort because they know you believe in their dreams and guide them each day on their journey.
 
There is a unique gift that is common among our direct care staff at Seven Hills. You have chosen this work. You have chosen to put the needs of others before your own. You have chosen to bring your gifts to others as part of our Seven Hills team. Your unique and greatest gift is that you share yourself – and for that I am so grateful.
 
This past weekend our Country paused to pay tribute to the heroes of 9/11. We watched the homecoming of a Marine Sergeant from Massachusetts who gave her life to save the women and children of Afghanistan. We were reminded of how people, when faced with adversity, rise to offer themselves to protect the people around them. 
 
It is time that our direct care force is recognized for the heroic service you provide under often difficult circumstances. Through COVID, through staff shortages, and most egregious, thorough the lack of a being paid a living wage. I commit to continue my personal and our Seven Hills voice to advocate and represent the incredible and heroic service you provide. You are the backbone of everything we do at Seven Hills. You are the backbone of so many vulnerable people in our care. Your chosen profession should be celebrated and compensated for the value you bring to our society.

In 1977, Vice President Hubert Humphrey noted,

“The moral test of government is how that government treats those who are in the dawn of life, the children; those who are in the twilight of life, the elderly; those who are in the shadows of life, the sick, the needy and the handicapped.”
—Vice President Hubert Humphrey
 
Our government should recognize your work and follow your lead. Thank you for choosing Seven Hills.