Over the last few weeks, one phrase has continually played over and over again in my thoughts: “To whom much is given, much is required.” I have heard this statement many times in church, usually at the point in the service when the offering plate is passed. However, for me, this statement has taken on new meaning as we have created and implemented a program that aims to serve those in need.

The statement is true:  we have been given a remarkable opportunity to influence systems and process, as I wrote last week. We have also been given opportunities to affect the lives, in a positive way, of the clients we serve. And, we have been given an unprecedented opportunity to do this work, utilizing federal funds. So as we have been given a great deal, our requirements for accountability and stewardship are at a very high level. We must continue as a consortium to strengthen our reporting capabilities, exercise fiscal restraint, and honor the state and federal regulations that govern the existence of our opportunity to work on this project. Our program has generated lots of national interest, for the right reasons. I hope you, like me, want to keep it that way. We want this endeavor to be viewed as a standard of excellence and quality. Join me, and the leadership and management staff of the consortium, in our continual efforts to improve in all of these areas. If we reflect on the statement above, we will hopefully be motivated to honor the opportunities that we have been given to do this important work. Thank you for all you do…

Blessings,

Stephen