Ohio 2020 Public Service Recognition Week Logo # I Serve Because

Those who work in our state government have a responsibility and a privilege to serve the people of Ohio. A responsibility because of the magnitude of the work and a privilege because of the gratification that comes from helping our fellow Ohioans. The Ohio Civil Rights Commission has the solemn role of enforcing Ohio's laws against discrimination -- laws which uphold the imperative that Ohioans should be treated equally on their merits and achievements, not unfairly because of arbitrary characteristics. The OCRC staff meets their responsibility and privilege with hard work, dedication, and passion. In spite of the rigors that come with this challenging work, they maintain a commitment to justice and equality.

It is our honor to work with such a devoted staff every week, but on behalf of all of the OCRC Commissioners, I take this opportunity during Public Service Recognition Week to share our thanks and appreciation for the OCRC staff’s tireless efforts.

- Lori Barreras, Ohio Civil Rights Commission Chair
 


Public Service work is more than just a job; it is a belief, a concept, a passion, and a perspective. It’s being able to speak to people, identify their problems, determine how you can help them and then, help them to the best of your ability. Sometimes you will be successful and sometimes you will not. But it will not stop you from picking up the phone or the case file and trying again. In my brief tenure at the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, I have the enviable pleasure of working with people who epitomize the true meaning of public service work. The staff at OCRC believes in the work they do every day. They work to ensure that civility, consideration, and respect is afforded to all Ohioans. These unusual times demonstrate that life is precious. For that reason, we should recognize and appreciate those who have dedicated their lives to public service work. I am so proud of the staff at OCRC because, through their public service work, they become change agents by improving the lives of many -one person at a time, one case at a time.

Angela Phelps-White, Ohio Civil Rights Commission Executive Director

Ohio 2020 Public Service Recognition Week Logo

 


OCRC Staff Say,

"I Serve Because..."

I serve because I have a genuine love for all people - Ta'Meka

I serve because it gives me a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day that I made a difference in someone’s life. - Aman

I serve because I am my Brother's and Sister's keeper. – Bradley

"To give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity." - Charles 
(original source, Douglas Adams)

I serve because it is a privilege and an honor to work toward justice for all – Mary

I serve because it is fulfilling, not only to me, but also to the people I serve. – John

To provide service to others is something I learned from my parents at a very young age.  Today, I serve to be a part of advancing the mission of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, to take part in educating the public, investigating and resolving disputes to effect positive changes in Ohio. - Ellena

I entered my job in the role of a 'servant' of the people and that is how I will leave. I love, love to make a difference and my job allows for that. - Sharon

I serve because I believe in the mission of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission and the positive impact we can have in the lives of those we serve. - Melissa

I serve because the protection of civil rights/human rights and public service are my passion and commitment. - Beyan

I serve to make a positive difference in the lives of the great citizens of Ohio - Darlene

I serve because spending long hours assisting my peers and the public doesn’t feel like work. - Stephanie

I serve because some of the most important issues for people are their home and work lives, and by working for the State of Ohio I am able to help folks with these matters. People often define themselves by the job they do. Helping employers and employees resolve employment difficulties helps all of us fulfill our need for purpose. Likewise, where you live should be a home, a place where you are able to be yourself and happy. By giving housing providers guidance and people who need a home an avenue for resolution of their housing problems, I help bring happiness to my community. Being able to help in such necessary affairs fills me with a deep sense of belonging, pride and satisfaction. I serve to thank Ohioans for providing me with purpose, community and gratification. - Colleen

I serve because everyone deserves a chance to tell their truth. - Helena

I am proud to serve as a Mediator for the Ohio Civil Rights Commission because I want to help the citizens of Ohio resolve conflict. In my 25 plus years of working for this agency I have resolved thousands of cases.  My sincere hope is that the citizens I have encountered have left the mediation with a sense of ownership of the resolution and a sincere belief that someone cared about them and listened to their concerns. I truly am living my best life in doing the work that I love. – Brad

I serve because I believe in the mission and core values of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission. - Deborah

I serve because I want to give back to the community. – Sara

Why I Serve

When life knocks you down,
It is nice to have someone to lift you up.

When people darken your day,
It is nice to have someone to help you shine.

When circumstances make you feel less than,
It is nice to have someone appreciate your worth.

When you feel you have no fight left in you,
It is nice to have someone fight for you.

For all of these reasons,
And so many more,
This is why I serve!

For the unappreciated,
For the underappreciated,
And for the downtrodden,
This is why I serve!

- Tonielle