On this date, September 11th, we want to take time to reflect on what this date means in American history. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families who were impacted on that day 7 years ago today, and we lift up those who are in service to our Country, even as this message is being written, in response to the call to duty that was issued as a result of the events of that day.

The tragedies that occurred on September 11, 2001, continue to influence our daily lives, on a personal level as well as professional. Our work in disaster recovery has been influenced by lessons that were learned in the aftermaths of many disasters over the years. Maybe no other disaster event has influenced the way we work than those that took place on 911. While we continue to move forward with the implementation of a program that is seeking to serve those who have been impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, it is important for us to take time to reflect and remember all of those who have gone before us in the work of Disaster Case Management. Many people have contributed to the field of disaster case management through the years and now we have an important opportunity to continue to contribute to the body of knowledge that will undoubtedly be used to shape future programs. Indeed, as a result of Hurricane Gustav, the work you are doing now is being magnified and viewed by policy makers and disaster victims alike. Take pride in your work, focus on the mission we all have, which is to help people.  Make sure that you are seeking supervision throughout the process so that you are able to stay engaged in this profession. Eventually, your contributions to this project will be appreciated by others, just as we now reflect on the work that has already occurred. Thanks for all you do……

Blessings,

Stephen