Refuel Your Spirit

As we begin a new year, it seems fitting to reflect on the accomplishments we have to be thankful for! So much of our time is spent on advocating for what we still must create and ensuring we can continue providing the continuum of services we currently offer. That is certainly an essential priority especially in a dynamic, fast-changing environment.

At the same time, it’s essential that we refuel our spirits by finding what we’re thankful for. For me, that includes innovation that has brought us so many of the opportunities we have today, and the many opportiunities we’ll be able to add for the future.

In that spirit, this edition of LINKS offers helpful information on value-based payments and market intelligence. These are just two examples among many about how our innovations are allowing us to deliver better long-term supports and services, thereby leading to more opportunities in the future for the individuals we support. 

When our International Council had the enlightening experience of participating in Inclusion International’s World Congress, we were reminded of the importance of the long-term supports and services that are offered throughout the world and not just here within our own borders. That’s an experience for which I’m incredibly grateful. I’m also grateful for the ANCOR Connected Community, a community we have both online and at our annual meetings, summits and conferences. The creativity, knowledge, expertise and experiences shared in this community is an essential part of our work to move our broader community forward.

Sometimes, it’s tough to find the space to take a step back and refuel your spirit by reflecting on what you’re thankful for. If you need a boost in your own efforts to do so, I recommend you visit WeHaveAStake.org, home to the Included. Supported. Empowered. campaign. There, you’ll find no shortage of stories that lift the spirit, and you’ll be reminded of the magic that gets created all throughout the year.

Robert Budd is CEO of Family Residences and Essential Enterprises (FREE) and President of the ANCOR Board of Directors.