The Academy will continue to emphasize SAFETY as our top priority. We realize that information is changing daily, so we are staying current on emerging issues. We have a responsibility to the larger community to do our part in reducing the spread of germs. CDC guidelines provide us with important recommendations for safe practices at home and in the community.

This outbreak has given us the opportunity to deepen our practice of several core values: partnership, service and wellness. As partners in the recovery process, we typically work side-by-side. Under current CDC guidelines, we decided to suspend this type of activity. We are implementing other ways to stay connected, through social media, phone calls, Slack (private instant messaging platform) and Zoom. We are of service to each other, while emphasizing health and wellness. Social distancing, which we prefer to call “physical” distancing, can affect mental health. We are currently sharing valuable coping strategies with members and staff.

More updates will follow! Academy staff meets daily at the Academy to review strategies, communicate with members, receive updates and keep facilities in tiptop shape. Stay tuned for additional information as we adapt services to emerging COVID-19 concerns.

In the past few weeks, our Arts Team has been busy promoting our brand and using our logo on a variety of mediums. We recently ordered Academy logo mugs for use in our Café, and they came out beautiful! Also, just in time for our March Fundraiser, we received new chef coats with our logo embroidered in white thread on purple fabric. The Culinary Team looks sharp wearing these coats at special events. Over time, we plan to incorporate our logo onto other promotional items and clothing, such as polo shirts and caps. Some of these items may be available for purchase as well.

If you get a chance, stop by the Academy and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea with us. While you are here, take a tour, meet our members and learn about our progress.