Events to be held May 5 through May 11
SACRAMENTO, CA – Celebrated annually, Public Service Recognition Week honors the important contributions of the nation’s public servants. These workers support California’s government and are directly responsible for administering its services and programs. These vital efforts include providing California’s residents with access to clean drinking water, safe parks, healthcare, and much more. Public servants help to create a better California every day.
This year, Public Service Recognition Week runs May 5-May 11. In California, a multi-department work group focused on improving employee engagement compiled a set of no-cost events departments can host to celebrate California’s public servants. Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statement in support of all of our public workers.
“California could not be the land of opportunity and success it is today without its legion of committed public servants who carry out government’s long list of important – though sometimes thankless – responsibilities,” Newsom’s message said. “During Public Service Recognition Week, we celebrate civil and public servants at all levels and the crucial work they do with passion, expertise and dedication in order to improve our lives and help build a California for all.”
The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) encourages all state entities to participate in recognition activities across the state. Departments are encouraged to celebrate employees’ years of service and their successes from the last year, as well as to give back to their local communities. One event, “Thankful Thursday,” encourages departments to donate to local food banks.
California’s Public Service Recognition Week is also a time for employees to reflect on the work they do every day. Quotes from state employees:
“When you think of yourself as a public servant and that you are contributing to safety of the bridges, dams, high-rises, fire stations, and hospitals, definitely motivates me and it’s a great feeling.” – Vladimir Yanusik, Department of Conservation
“We will help people get through some of the worst times in their lives. I’m just so grateful that I can help people recover from pain and really move to place of healing and knowing that we’re part of that healing process.” – Anita Ahuja, CA Victim Compensation Board
More than 220,000 state employees do all manner of work to keep California safe, clean and prosperous. Their commitment to service should be recognized and valued. California’s Public Service Recognition Week activities reached more than 78,000 employees last year. Throughout the week, departments can share their celebrations on social media using #PSRWCA.
For more information about California’s Public Service Recognition Week, visit https://benefits.calhr.ca.gov/state-employees/engagement-resources/employee-engagement/public-service-recognition-week/