Each year, Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW) honors the contributions of public servants at the local, state, and federal level tracing back to 1985. As we embark on this year’s Public Service Week, it’s an honor to spotlight the dedicated individuals who tirelessly serve our communities. With over 20 million Americans engaged in public service nationwide, part of that 20 million is working right here in our district as first responders, in public safety, and public transportation. It doesn’t stop there, you are our teachers inspiring our youth, healthcare workers healing the sick, and firefighters protecting our homes. Your impact spreads far and wide across our beautiful state.

For me, a career dedicated to public service has given me the opportunity to support each one of you everyday day. From hearing and advocating for your community concerns you bring to the table as a constituent, to celebrating the successes of our local schools, businesses, and organizations; working in public service is a profound privilege. I have immense gratitude for the dedication, professionalism, and sacrifices each of you make.

While working in public service comes with its many benefits, we need to take a moment to recognize some of the core challenges. From navigating bureaucratic red tape and limited resources, public servants often face heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and the constant struggle to balance competing priorities. They address complex issues such as poverty, healthcare, and infrastructure requiring collaboration across multiple stakeholders, while overcoming resistance to change within organizations. Emergency responders must be prepared to manage crises swiftly and effectively, amidst the unpredictable nature of emergencies and disasters. Despite these obstacles, you have remained dedicated to serving our communities and finding innovative solutions to the most pressing challenges.

Throughout this week, take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the often-unsung heroes among us. Whether it’s offering a friendly wave to the postal worker, extending a heartfelt thank-you to the sanitation crew, or sharing a kind word with the librarian, every act of appreciation underscores the hard work and commitment of public servants. Public Service Week isn't solely about commemorating past achievements but also about embracing the future and passing on the torch to new graduates, aspiring public servants, and our youth. We all play a role in fostering stronger, more resilient communities. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or simple acts of kindness, each of us can contribute to positive change.

To all the public servants embodying the ethos of service and compassion, thank you. Your efforts profoundly impact countless lives throughout our district and within the United States and for that, we extend our eternal gratitude.

CONTACT US: I encourage you to visit my official website or call my offices in Jefferson City (573-635-7232) or Cottleville (636-327-7055) with your questions and concerns. If you want even greater access to what I am working on, please visit my YouTube site, Facebook page, and keep up-to-date with Twitter and Instagram.

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