Those Who Show Up & Step Up
By Steve Suroviec, President and CEO
Earlier this month, Achieva celebrated
“Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week” (September 11-17, 2022). On behalf of all the people we support and their families, we wanted to use the opportunity to offer our sincerest thanks and appreciation for each of our DSPs. Their work ensures not only the health, safety, and wellbeing of the people we support, but it plays such a significant role in assisting them in leading lives of personal significance. As a small token of appreciation, using resources from the Cecil and David Rosenthal Memorial Fund, a $50 gift card from Giant Eagle was given to every Achieva employee who has direct-service role in the organization. We’re so fortunate to have such a dedicated group of DSPs who show up and step up each and every day.
Speaking of showing up, on September 19th, the day started out with pouring rain, lightning, and cool temperatures. Yet, over 140 golfers rolled the dice and showed up to participate in Achieva’s 24th annual
“Million Dollar Golf Outing.” Anyone who had chosen to stay home that morning would have been justified, but by the time 11 a.m. rolled around, brunch was being served, and the rain had stopped. Thanks and appreciation go out to all our sponsors, event volunteers, and especially those who decided it was worth taking a chance on the weather to show up for a great cause. Golf events aren’t just for playing golf – those who show up also buy raffle tickets, purchase mulligans, and bid on auction items, helping to raise even more money for the great work Achieva performs. Showing up that stormy morning meant a lot to me personally, and it meant a great deal for Achieva. We thank each and every golfer and sponsor who stepped up that day – it turned out to be a perfect day for golf and for Achieva!
Finally, last Saturday, the latest organization to join the Achieva Family –
The Arc Erie County – held its most successful
“Buddy Walk” in some time. Thanks and appreciation go out to those who stepped up in the greater Erie area, in particular the event sponsors and the
Erie Sports Center, who hosted the event. Over 300 participants showed up on this beautiful fall day, and the fun, games, and exercise ensued! Over $25,000 was raised to support The Arc Erie County’s advocacy and family support mission for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Thanks and appreciation go out to everyone in Erie who showed up last weekend and stepped up for The Arc Erie County!
Looking forward, I want to remind everyone that Achieva will be celebrating a number of community leaders who have stepped up when we bring back - in person - its
“Awards of Excellence.” For the past few years, we’ve held the event virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But it’s back - it’ll be live and in person on December 5th at the Sheraton Station Square. Nominations have already been received and the selection committee has already completed its work. Thirteen extraordinary members of the community will be recognized for their service and contributions in support of people with disabilities and their families. We hope you show up to celebrate these individuals and organizations who have stepped up! The awards event will begin at 6 p.m.
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