Jenn Craigue
The Direct Care Alliance had its annual board meeting in Orlando Florida April 26-28th. On the evening of the 26, the Florida Professional Association of Caregivers held a wonderful reception for the DCA board. We had a very good group together during this event. Members of the Florida Professional Association of Caregivers Board, and active members attended as well. We were also joined by Lisa Burck, Chair of the National Professional Alliance of Direct Support Professionals, and DCA staff and board members.
The Direct Care Alliance had a historical moment during this meeting. Both the Chair and Vice Chair positions were filled by direct care workers. Tracy Dudsinzki and I were pleased that we attracted numerous applicants from across the nation. I am proud to announce that additional direct care workers from a variety of work settings – home care, nursing homes and those providing supports to individuals living with development disabilities – have also joined our board.
We had a productive annual board meeting where we developed our strategic direction and strengthened our unity and focus as an organization. With the new additions, DCA represents the diverse professions engaged in providing critical care and supports for millions of Americans.
This is an incredible time for DCA. I have been a member for quite some time now, and I am in complete awe at the progress that has been made within the last 3 years. I believe that the biggest reasons for our progress is due to the Executive Director and staff, our great board members and last but certainly not least the great organizations that have helped to fund DCA’s programs.
I remember about 3 to 4 years ago a gentleman had informed me that while the concept of DCA was great, he didn’t think that we could succeed because no one else has been able to get the constituents to work together. I am so proud to say that he was wrong. Not only do we work well together, but we also support each other. I feel very blessed to work with such amazing people.
Kudos to the DCA Board, compliments for the DCA staff, and congratulations to Jenn, Tracy and all of the direct care workers who skillfully assume leadership roles. Your Voices and your knowledge are essential to drive policy, social, professional, and personal awareness, and change. The DCA is flourishing through solid collaboration. The guidance from direct care workers affirms the philosophy of “Nothing about us without us.” Onward and Forward!
Lynne Wichmann
Thank you so muck Lynne. I am very excited in my new role as Chair. The DCA started off as the little train that could ” I think I can, I think I can” Now we are saying ” We are doing!!! It is such a thrilling time for the DCA and everyone involved. It has been amazing to watch the DCA grow from a seedling and develop into a rose.
Jenn and the DCA Board,
Congratulations on an amazing journey over the last 3 years. I am sorry I missed the meeting in Florida but with the leadership and commitment of the Board members there is no doubt you will be the leading thinkers in this developing industry.