COVID-19 Updates

March 13, 2020

To the community we treasure,

This message comes with care and hope that your families, schools, communities, and you are well.

As you know, we are experiencing unprecedented times, as hour-by-hour, new updates are released about COVID-19 (the coronavirus). We know this may cause uncertainty and stress. And, we want to remind you of the strength and care of this community. I recall our nation's motto -- e pluribus unum. Out of many, one. Our Ambassador classes span a decade, but we remain one team, one community.

Over the last week, we have been communicating with our Spring Service team, Alumni Leadership Council, families, and educator to provide guidance in support of their health, safety, and care -- and that of their families, classmates, and neighbors.

This afternoon, I want to provide the steps we have taken.

I begin with Spring Service and our deep gratitude for the compassionate service and tireless efforts of the largest Ambassador and Alumni team in history -- 501 members powerfully leading service in 314 cities and towns. Over the last six weeks, they have demonstrated what we know them to be -- a force of extraordinary goodness. We couldn't be any prouder.

Over the last week, we have gathered information to ensure we make safe and responsible decisions regarding Spring Service and all matters related to Project 351. Last evening, I had to share the difficult but correct decision to postpone Spring Service. This decision was based upon school closures, the guidance of health professionals and educators, and -- most importantly -- our devotion to the care of our community.

It will come as no surprise to learn that the first instinct of the Spring Service team was to ask, "how can we still help?". Over the coming days, we will continue to listen and learn about coronavirus, engage the counsel of educators and other trusted advisors, and welcome your insights, as we chart safe and responsible options to uplift and unite communities through service. This afternoon, the Spring Service team and support community of caring adults and educators will be sent additional guidance, including FAQs.

I also want to share the following updates:

1. Regional events led by our ALC and RST are postponed. These include regional trainings and service events.

2. Leadership Reunion, Saturday, June 6th. We continue to plan with care and thoughtfulness. If circumstances require, we will cancel and find creative and meaningful ways to celebrate our 10th anniversary and serve virtually.

3. Project 351 Team. The health and wellness of our team and volunteers are paramount. For the immediate future, the Project 351 team will work from home and will not participate in external meetings/events. Though remote, we will continue to work on our mission and remain connected to our community with resources and inspiration. We ask for your understanding as we may experience limitations based on the lack of access to our office.

4. Social Media Inspiration. We will use our instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to share inspirational examples of community building and courageous leadership. We kick-off this afternoon, as we seek to illuminate the hope, strength, and resilience of our national community. And, express gratitude for the leaders, medical professionals, public servants, and every day heroes who help guide the way forward.

One thing we know for certain...the needs of those most vulnerable will increase in the coming days. We are especially concerned for seniors, children, and families facing economic distress, hunger, and homelessness. If we are able and allowed, we want to be of the frontline of providing care. We will keep you updated in the days ahead.

I close in gratitude. In times of challenge, we draw inspiration from the strength, unity, and compassion of the 351 community. We are ever-thankful for the privilege of serving shoulder-to-shoulder with you and wish you -- your family and friends -- continued good health and wellness.

With gratitude,
Carolyn

P.S. We recommend this link to the Center for Disease Control for the most updated and rigorous information and guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html