Resetting the Future – A Thanksgiving

Posted by Donna Colonna, Chief Executive Officer

A year ago, as we spiraled down into an economic recession, many forecast a reset for America – a significant reduction in the greed and overspending that caused our troubled times. Today, with so many people out of work, savings lost, and dreams deferred, it has unfortunately become clear that any reset will take more time and more sacrifice than predicted. Still, we can all give thanks that things aren’t worse.
We at SUS are striving hard to do our part in resetting the future. We are doing so because we can, and because we must. That SUS can seize opportunities before us is due to the wealth of thank you’s owed to 1600 SUS staff. Because they live the values of social purpose, compassion, hard work, and collegiality that make change possible, SUS received the 2008 Crain’s Best Places to Work in NYC Award and CARF Accreditation in 2009 .

Like any for-profit or non-profit corporation, SUS must take advantage of social, business, and technological trends if it’s to own its future. We are building service and management capabilities by drawing from the increased numbers of younger workers motivated by social causes. Greater visibility of SUS people and methodologies are being achieved via distribution through social-media channels. The tide of interest in community service shown in the last presidential election has resulted in a pool of volunteers whose commitment of time means greater inclusion into society for marginalized individuals served by SUS. Because more people and corporations are embracing the double bottom-line of making money and doing good, SUS is finding increased receptivity and support for social ventures and co-branded partnerships.
The people I work with as well as our response to present marketplace trends give me confidence in SUS’ sustainability and growth. As we enter the holiday season, please join me in identifying who stands alongside you and recognize them with thanks. And, please share in response to this blog-post, the trends/opportunities you see for resetting the quality of life for individuals in need and for the society we share in common. You will have my thanks and that of other readers, in return.

Best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving and a Brighter Future,

Donna