My Thoughts On Recent Events

May 23, 2022

Dear Colleagues,

Unconscionable violence is far too common in our country today. It seems that not a month goes by without a heartbreaking report of a mass shooting causing serious injury and loss of life. The latest massacre that occurred on May 14th in Buffalo, New York made me physically ill – the act itself and the ideology that fueled it. So much so, I tucked it away in an attempt to move forward, ignoring an opportunity to express my outrage and our organization’s clear position on violence and hate. 

I can also see in myself that I have started to become numb to these events; perhaps you can relate. On reflection, though, I realize that was a mistake.

Whether it is a mass shooting or a bombing by hate-filled individuals or a cowardly act committed against a single member of our community, we must continue to express our outrage towards those that carry out or support these heinous acts. 

We are all created equal; my personal values emanate from this fact. I try to live and lead in a manner that is reflective of such. I care deeply for each of you. I want you to feel comfortable and safe while at work for VNS Health. I also want you to grow and thrive both personally and professionally. While we can’t solve the larger problem that there are evil, hateful people committing horrible acts against our fellow citizens, we can create an environment here at VNS Health that boldly tackles the problems of racism.

As an organization, we seek to protect and improve the health of people in their communities. Our mission centers around eliminating health disparities in the neighborhoods we serve, a direct form of social justice. Each of us, in our own roles and responsibilities, comes to work each day to fulfill our mission, and to show empathy, demonstrate integrity and pursue agility. And for that, I am extremely grateful.  

We know what we stand for and what we stand against. Events in this country, in fact, the world, are not lost on any of us. As a rule, our workplace communications should focus primarily on the outstanding work you all do and the opportunities before us. 

Together, we can change health care for the better. By doing so, we can help thousands, even millions, of people live better lives. That is why we are VNS Health. This is our purpose and our focus. Thank you all for your daily efforts, your passion and commitment. 

Dan Savitt
President and Chief Executive Officer