Message from Mike
After a challenging year, hope for a brighter future
Greetings,
As I write this letter to you, I am mindful that we are nearing a full year of living with COVID-19. While it has certainly been a very difficult time for all of us, it has been exceedingly hard for the people we support. Safety precautions have limited normal activities and precious time spent with families. I am proud to say that from day one, our team has been there, connecting people we support with their families virtually, keeping them active and engaged, and working tirelessly to ensure their health and wellbeing.
Each day of this costly and deadly pandemic I am reminded that we can do what we do only because of the resources, prayers and support that you so generously provide. For that we are truly blessed.
While we are focused on COVID-19 today, we are also looking to a brighter future. We continue to review our operations in each state, especially where we face significant financial hardship made worse by COVID-19. We have had to make difficult but necessary choices, and some of our homes and programs have closed or been transitioned to other providers.
Yet our long-term vision is clear—to expand our reach to be able to serve more people with disabilities than ever before. This vision is already beginning to take shape. We are welcoming new residents to Bethesda Cornerstone Village in Minnesota, our innovative residential concept that empowers lives of integration and community connection. Soon we will expand this concept to many more states. We have begun providing financial services to help people with disabilities better manage their money. Our online events featuring high-profile Christian artists are raising spirits and bringing attention to important disability issues. And there is so much more to come.
As you read this issue of Messenger, know that you are a valued and loved member of the Bethesda Family. Please stay safe and healthy. God’s blessings to you and yours.
Regards,
Mike Thirtle, PhD
President & CEO Bethesda
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of
Christ.
– Galatians 6:2 NIV