On May 9th, Social Model Recovery Systems held its All-Agency Meeting and celebrated the LGBTQ+ community with decorations and a presentation.
The event started with an icebreaker activity. Each person introduced themselves, what program they are from, and what their favorite hobby was.
Following the icebreaker, Vanessa Ramos, Program Director at Royal Palms, and Dede DeGrazia shared a presentation on the LGBTQ+ community. The objective was to promote understanding and inclusivity. In their presentation, they explained the LGBTQ+ community’s history, challenges members of this community face, and how we can support and respect their rights. Vanessa and Dede took everyone on a journey of knowledge, empathy, and acceptance.
The presentation explained the importance of accepting and embracing diversity in all its forms. By educating ourselves and promoting inclusivity, we can create a more compassionate and equitable society for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Understanding the vast and differing LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and others) experiences is an important aspect of promoting inclusivity and equality. This community encompasses a diverse range of sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions. But in the end, we are all humans, and it’s our responsibility to continue the journey of understanding with respect, empathy, and an open mind, allowing everyone to define and express their own identities.
On this day, we also honored and recognized employees who have reached significant milestones in their length of service with our agency. Awards were presented by our Chief Operating Officer, Tim Stevens, and Chief Executive Officer, Bruce Boardman. The purpose of these awards is to acknowledge and appreciate the loyalty, commitment, and contributions of long-serving employees.
The awards recognized employees who have completed specific milestones in their tenure with the organization, such as 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and even 30 years of service. Mr. Stevens and Mr. Boardman presented a customized plaque with each staff member’s name, their length of service, and a message of appreciation.
The SMRS culture is one of inclusivity, teamwork, and genuine comradery. Congratulations to all who received an outward token of appreciation for your continuing display of excellence.
