Flood Update II

Here’s another update on Imagine! and the flooding after another couple of days of too much rain.

Most importantly, we have accounted for all clients and staff in our effected area. This includes those airlifted out of Lyons and Jamestown, those who are isolated in the mountains and safe, those dealing with their flooded homes, and those carrying the burden of care for many extended hours. The notice of the last unaccounted for employee came yesterday when we learned that she and her family were airlifted out of Lyons. We are grateful for this news.

Volunteer groups have already begun cleaning basements and living quarters of homes that were deep with mud. There is much work still to be done; many heroes to honor, and many people who will need reassurance that they are important and we care for them. I have been particularly amazed to see the resilience of people living in our homes and the staff that support them.

I have been in contact with representatives from Colorado’s Division for Developmental Disabilities, members of Imagine!’s Board of Directors, local legislators, and members of Alliance to keep them updated on our situation. They have all been incredibly supportive and have offered to assist in many ways.

I have also been communicating with employees and supervisors. I am meeting with our Human Resources team today to determine how best to support those who have been unable to get into to work, but just as importantly, how to acknowledge and honor those who have made supreme efforts to get to work and to ensure the safety of the individuals we serve.

I encourage you to check out the Imagine! Facebook page, where we are sharing stories of the many Imagine! stakeholders who have made extraordinary efforts on behalf of Imagine! and those we serve. I think you will find them inspiring. I have spoken with many Imagine! folks during the past few days, and I have yet to see anyone reacting with anger or frustration. Instead, they are all rolling up their sleeves and doing the work that needs to be done.

It makes me proud to be associated with Imagine!.