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As we step into 2025, it's important to take a moment to reflect on everything we accomplished together in 2024—a year that truly embodied Advocacy in Action. Together, we made incredible strides, broke barriers, and grew stronger as a team, all while living out our core values of equity, access, and inclusion.
2024: A Year of Impact and Advocacy
This past year, we expanded our reach into five new zip codes on Chicago’s South Side, bringing essential services to more families in underserved communities.
In total, we served over 35,000 patient visits—an incredible 8,000 more than in 2023—and welcomed over 1,300 new patients into their therapy journeys. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent lives touched, gaps closed, and trust earned from the families who depend on us.
But our advocacy extended far beyond therapy sessions. We:
- Co-hosted a statewide conference on early detection in Early Intervention, amplifying the importance of identifying needs early.
- Secured leadership roles, including the Chair of the Illinois Interagency Council on Early Intervention, giving us a platform to shape policies and systems.
- Participated in rallies, statewide committees, and parent collaborations to ensure the voices of families were heard.
- Contributed to groundbreaking research through I-ACQUIRE and Project INITIATE, wrapping up studies that will drive innovation in therapy practices.
- Published our work, amplifying the importance of equitable access to services across Illinois.
Each of these accomplishments showcases the power of teamwork and a shared commitment to equity and excellence.
The Heart of Our Success
None of this would have been possible without the incredible passion, adaptability, and resilience of our team. You’ve stepped into new roles, embraced unfamiliar techniques, and pushed yourselves to balance personal growth with professional excellence. Your courage and dedication inspire me every day.
The work we do is not always easy—it requires us to show up, often in the face of adversity, and do our very best for the families who trust us with their children. Yet, through it all, you’ve shown an unwavering commitment to our mission. Thank you for everything you do to make M Street Pediatric Therapy a place where families feel supported, and children can thrive.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we turn the page to a new year, our focus remains on growth and impact. In 2025, we’ll:
- Narrow our service areas for more consistent schedules, allowing us to better serve families and improve our work-life balance.
- Broaden the diversity of our team, ensuring that we continue to reflect the communities we serve.
- Expand our reach to connect with even more families in need of support.
- Integrate more professional development opportunities to help you grow both personally and professionally.
- Deepen our community collaborations to strengthen the network of care for families.
- Amplify our advocacy efforts to keep equity and access at the forefront of our mission.
I also want to encourage each of you to embrace the opportunities that come with growth. Whether it’s learning a new skill, tackling a challenging case, or stepping into a leadership role, these moments often lead to the most meaningful transformations. Growth may feel uncomfortable at times, but it’s in these moments that we find the greatest potential for impact.
Shaping the Future Together
As we begin this new chapter, I want to hear from you. In our upcoming conversations, please reflect on your contributions—not just to your own growth but also to the growth of our team. I also want to know how I can better support you as a leader and what you envision for the future of M Street. Your voice matters, and together, we’ll shape the direction of our work in 2025 and beyond.
Moving Forward with Purpose
The momentum we’ve built in 2024 is a testament to what we can accomplish together. Let’s carry that energy into 2025, with pride in our achievements and a renewed sense of purpose. Together, we’ll continue to create meaningful change, advocate for those who need it most, and provide exceptional care to the families who trust us with their children.
Thank you for everything you bring to this team. I am honored to work alongside each of you and am excited about what we’ll accomplish together in the year ahead. Here’s to another year of advocacy, growth, and impact.
Here’s to a promising 2025! 🎉
Ali
