As we look back on the past year, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude for all we have accomplished together. Anne Rice-Burgess’ reflection letter is a tribute to the hard work, dedication, and resilience each of you has shown. Through challenges and triumphs, your unwavering commitment to our mission has made a significant impact.
In her letter to staff, recapping her first year at ECS, chief executive officer Anne Rice-Burgess wrote of a “year full of learning and inspiration,” encouraging her team, as well as all partners, funders, policymakers, and community members, to work together, rely on each other, and create real change.
Dear ECS Staff,
This week marks my completion of one full year at ECS. It has been a year full of learning and inspiration.
During this time, I have come to know the passion with which the work of ECS is carried out at all levels, including direct services, shared services, advocacy, and leadership. I have found a group dedicated to doing their best for those we serve, and that
knows there is always more to learn and improve. I respect that ECS leans into innovation and transformation, over maintaining the status quo. We are doing so much, and we have so much more to do.
ECS is poised to be a leader in our sector by focusing on the array of work in our theory of change; by demonstrating to participants, funders, policymakers, and ourselves how we impact our community; and by amplifying calls for the change that needs to come
from established powers in Philadelphia and Harrisburg. Sometimes the gates to power are held fast or rusted shut and hard to move. But with the experiences of our participants always in mind, we need to open those gates and make our presence known.
Each of us is a conduit, as what we give as staff is what our participants experience. We require excellence in our commitment, the support of the systems that allow us to do the work effectively, and the funders and partners who see the need and step in. Our work is never solitary. We rely on each other.
Sincerely,
Anne