When I think about challenging days in my personal and work lives—and there have been plenty—what always comes to mind are the people who offered their support, reminding me that I am never alone when I allow others to be there for me.

When others show care and empathy, it reminds us  of our worth and the contributions we offer to the people and work we love.

As we navigate this season of budget, hiring, political and other unknowns, I call on each of you to be that colleague who uplifts those around you. It is in challenging times that we can and should unite more firmly than ever to who we are and what we believe.

These are the times for more focus on well-being, more support of life/work balance, and more honoring of our shared commitment to public service. In short, we must actively sustain the resilience of our employees as part of the critical foundation to sustaining the nation’s forests and grasslands.

So, as we look ahead to yet another busy field and fire year, I invite each of you to join Chief Moore, Associate Chief Coleman and me next week to celebrate Wellbeing Week and Public Service Recognition Week, which will be held concurrently May 6-10. There will be dozens of virtual options on the eight dimensions of wellness as well as more than 20 no-cost, easy button options for local units to honor employee commitment to public service.

Well-being and recognizing our employees are not something “nice to do” or “if other work is done.” I’m asking leaders and supervisors across the organization to adjust deadlines, repurpose staff meetings, open shared meeting spaces and model integrity in how we invest in ourselves and those who look to us for leadership.

I’m reminded that while our shared core value of service affirms our dedication to communities and to the planet, it also begins with service to each other. The vast possibilities of meeting the wildfire crisis, reimaging recreation, reopening campgrounds, equitable contracting and so much more are only possible if we make ourselves responsible for investing the people who will make that future possible.

I look forward to celebrating public service and investing in well-being with all of you during the week's events. Register now to take advantage of virtual options.

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