For the first time ever, I noticed a ROW ONE van patrolling the streets of Columbus this week. During orientation, we discussed this mobile crisis unit. The HR coordinator said that I, like him, likely never noticed the white Netcare vans prior to working here but now that I know what they are, I, like him, will see them everywhere. Coincidentally, I did not notice just one, but two vans this week. 

Though I know the ROW ONE program to be a spectacular program, it seemed all the more amazing after seeing them in action. The HR coordinator’s comment made me deeply think about all the positive contributions that community members make which go unnoticed or unrecognized by the community. These workers, like many in the nonprofit community, are not doing their jobs for some sort of fame, recognition, or wealth. Instead, they are doing their jobs, as they know how apparent the need is. 

With the ROW ONE staff in mind, I became all the more excited and motivated to work to make Netcare’s fall fundraiser, the Community Awards and Recognition Dinner, all the more special. This night is intended to recognize all the individuals whose work often goes unnoticed by the outside community but whose work makes Netcare’s mission possible.

In preparation for this event, I continued to work this week to collect in-kind donations. In addition, I worked on Netcare’s Grant Calendar, which is now almost complete! I also worked to complete a submission for the 2022 Community Giving Guide, and I updated the Donor Database. 

My boss was out of town this week, so I did most of my work remotely. I realized in the process how lucky I have been to be able to be vaccinated and at the office mostly full-time this summer. As a person who thrives on others’ energy, I have realized how much more effective of a worker I am when I am surrounded by others working towards similar goals. As a result, I am definitely looking forward to returning to the office soon. 

*For context to readers who do not know what these vans are:  ROW One vehicles are part of Netcare’s mobile intervention services. These vans with Netcare personnel go out to take publicly intoxicated individuals off the street and into shelter. Without Netcare, these clients would have likely ended up in a holding cell in jail. Instead, however, the ROW ONE staff transports these clients to providers such as drug and alcohol treatment centers, homeless shelters, community mental health centers, hospitals or Netcare Crisis Services.