In his latest message, CEO Lou Giramma reflects on Aspire’s mission and the importance of standing together to support each other and those we serve.
Dear Aspire Community,
In times of uncertainty, when the noise around us grows louder and the world feels unsettled, it becomes even more important to stay grounded in what we know to be true—our work matters. Our impact on the people we support, their families, and our communities is real and lasting.
As the world around us continues to shift, often with unpredictability and incivility, Aspire remains unwavering in our mission and values. We are committed to fostering a culture of belonging, ensuring that every employee and every person we serve feels valued, respected, and heard. This is not just a statement—it’s the foundation of how we work together and care for one another.
At the same time, we recognize that ambiguity and uncertainty can create concern, and we want to reassure you that we are actively staying informed and preparing for any potential challenges that may arise. While we cannot predict every turn, we are committed to thoughtful, informed responses that uphold our values and protect our people. As always, our approach will be rooted in transparency, care, and a steadfast commitment to those we serve.
The stories of impact across Aspire are powerful, and we will continue to elevate them—amplifying the voices of those who benefit from your dedication and shining a light on the difference we make in our communities. In doing so, we remind ourselves and the world why this work is essential.
Most importantly, we will always do what is right. That means ensuring employees feel supported, valued, and equipped to do their best work. It means making thoughtful, values-driven decisions that strengthen our organization while honoring our mission. And it means standing by the people we serve, upholding their dignity, rights, and opportunities to live full, meaningful lives.
Right now, that also means raising our voices in advocacy. Medicaid is a lifeline for the people we support, and its future is at risk. Aspire is working alongside ANCOR to protect the funding and policies that sustain our services. Your voice is crucial in this effort, and I encourage you to get involved today. ANCOR’s Medicaid Advocacy Toolkit is an excellent resource to help you understand what’s at stake and take action, including a quick way to contact your legislators and urge them to protect Medicaid.
In the coming weeks and months, there will be more opportunities to engage directly in advocacy—ensuring that those who shape policies understand the critical role our services play in people’s lives. Your voices matter. Whether by sharing stories, participating in discussions, or helping to inform decision-makers, we encourage you to join us in championing policies that positively impact both the people we employ and the people we support. Together, we can make a difference far beyond our organization.
No matter what challenges arise beyond Aspire’s walls, inside our organization, we will continue to lead with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to our shared purpose. Thank you for all that you do, for the care and passion you bring to your work, and for making Aspire a place where people truly belong.
With gratitude,
Lou