Maryellen Anick

February 10. 2015


Dear Maryellen,

SPIN has been supporting the needs of the community for 45 strong years and the needs of families in the community have been the hallmark of our services. Together, SPIN and families learned from one another, laughed with one another, cried with one another, became better because of one another.   I remember the first time over 27  years ago when I met the Anick family and we were involved with new, exciting fundraisers like really Big Beef and Beers with the Greaseband and huge hoagie days and the Anick family was there with us and for us! We laughed, cried, argued and learned a lot about teambuilding in those days! We learned that the Anick family was very important to SPIN and additionally we met a young, beautiful inside and out, woman named Maryellen Anick. Together, Maryellen, her husband Jay and their daughters continued their commitment to SPIN in many ways and in November, 2000 Maryellen joined SPIN’s Children Services team as a Paraprofessional.  Over these 14 years, Maryellen, you have been a highly valued, respected employee, an extremely positive, well-liked, outstanding team member and a caring, compassionate support to so many children, families and colleagues.  There is no doubt; you truly exemplify the spirit and mission of SPIN.

From the day that you entered the classroom, we could see your smile clear across the room and with it we could see your eagerness and your immediate commitment to learn and give as much as possible. Quickly, we knew you were a Super Keeper!     Each day, your co-workers, children you support, and their families see your consistent demonstration of SPIN’s Pillars.  Your People First approaches invite children of all abilities to achieve their personal outcomes knowing that you will support them all along the way.  

You have supported children who range in age from three months to five years and have provided care for children with and without disabilities, always treating all children and their families with the utmost respect and dignity.  In the classroom, you support an organized, structured learning environment and individualized activities that target each child’s strengths and areas of development. You are loved by the children for your immense kindness and compassion, as well as your unique ability to make learning fun and exciting!

Maryellen, you are a model of Professionalism.  You understand the critical importance of working as a team, and are able to communicate effectively and work cooperatively with your colleagues, team members, families and external stakeholders.   Maryellen, you always go above and beyond, willing to support wherever, whenever, whoever is needed.  Over many years, you have been a mentor, teacher and coach to new children services staff members and have made their work experience supportive, pleasant and enjoyable.  

Maryellen, it is easy to see that you take pride in your work and therefore your Performance Excellence shines through. Those that work with you immediately see your strong ability to coordinate and collaborate with all stakeholders and your caring approach is witnessed in all actions and interactions.  Your “Can Do” attitude is so important to the successful outcomes of the Children Services Team.

Maryellen, you certainly understand and exude the Productivity Pillar. In the Anick family way, you are organized, detail-oriented, efficient and highly responsible!  And of course, this rubs off so well in the classroom as you have mastered the art of multi-tasking, all the while, assuring the optimum learning, health, safety and happiness of all of the children.   

Maryellen, we know that we can’t teach someone to care deeply.  In fact, we can’t teach someone to give of themselves. This is something people, incredible people like you, are born with and thank goodness for all of us, you have chosen to share these wonderful gifts and talents here with all of us at SPIN! What a difference you make!   

Maryellen, on behalf of the SPIN Corporate Board, SPIN Managers, your colleagues and especially the many children and families you support, we are so very proud of you and congratulate you on this most deserving Employee of the Month Award for January, 2015. Your deep caring and strong belief has supported so many children and families to live a life of possibilities. 

With Deepest Recognition and Appreciation, 

Judith Dotzman
Executive Director