Zach has been with The Arc of Opportunity for a little over a year and a half. During that time, I have had the good fortune to work closely with him. Due to some key staff leaving - and the workforce crisis - our Day Hab team has gotten noticeably smaller. Except for the invaluable support of our DD, Zach and I have become a two-person team, ready to tackle the day-to-day and any curveballs along the way.
The fundamental that immediately comes to mind when I think of Zach's work ethic is #16: Be Positive. Despite the challenges of being the lone case manager in Day Hab at the moment, I have never heard Zach utter a negative or defeatist comment. He asks for help when needed, and gives 100% to ensure that all on-site and remote participants are getting everything that they need... whether it's support with a goal, wheelchair adjustments, getting transportation set up, more COVID screening slips, or a listening ear. His weekly Media Trivia Zoom group has become a favorite for many participants!
Recently, Zach brought in his disc golf basket from home and has started to share this passion with the participants. I can hear a lot of buzz in the hallway, asking if they will be able to get outside that day!
Zach Listens Generously to the participants and is always sure to Communicate, Communicate, Communicate with the residences. He has been a Human Rights officer for several years, and his passion for service to the IDD community is evident every day. He inspires me to be a better nurse... and a better person.
Zach has decided to move on from Day Hab and advance his career as a residential manager at Foster Street. I cannot even begin to describe the void that will be left by his departure, but I am thrilled that Zach is continuing with the company. I have every confidence that the residence is in very capable hands. Zach... thank you for everything that you have done - and continue to do - in support of our clients.