Tuesday, July 23, 2020
Dear colleagues:
As we set forth to Reinvent IDHS and Restore Illinois, we reflect on the transformation our agency has undergone in the past months to safely and effectively meet the needs of Illinois' most vulnerable residents. You have played a crucial role in redefining our services so that they remain accessible to customers and providers throughout the stay at home order and as we move through the phases to Restore Illinois. Whether you are working heroically on the front lines at one of IDHS' 24/7 facilities, or you have creatively designed methods for conducting your work remotely, your efforts are valued.
In the coming weeks and months, we will address both our broad vision of reinvention and the more immediate need to bring some staff back to our offices and facilities that have been closed temporarily due to COVID-19. Return to these worksites will be a gradual, flexible process that will evolve over time. As this process continues, we will share information transparently and provide affected employees advance notice and training regarding new safety protocols.
We will continue to proceed thoughtfully, relying on science and IDPH guidance to inform our planning. Safety will remain our priority, and we will progress with an abundance of caution to ensure your safety and that of our customers. For many of you, remote work will continue for at least the short term. Where customers need in-person services or where in-person activities are required to meet program objectives, limited staff will return to the worksite equipped with appropriate PPE, sanitation resources, and social distancing precautions.
As we step into the next phase of the pandemic, we want to hear from you. We have developed a short survey where you can share your thoughts about our future. The information you provide us will help inform IDHS' continued effort to evolve operations and improve our services. Please take the time to fill out this important survey.
I am grateful for your important contributions. As we move forward, let's continue to support each other as we shape the future of IDHS.
Thank you,
Grace
Grace B. Hou
Secretary, IDHS