Executive Director's April 2024 Message

Spring is my favorite time of the year. Our days are longer, and I get to enjoy reading in my garden. I’ve already started pulling out all the weeds that sprouted during our rainy season and planted tomatoes, hot peppers, and herbs for me to enjoy well into the Fall.

With the arrival of Spring comes everyone’s favorite Spring mixer or backyard barbeque. However you enjoy socializing outdoors, please remember to check on those you love. April is Alcohol Awareness Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 178,000 people die each year from excessive alcohol use. If you are worried about someone you love, you are not alone. Reach out to the Employee Assistance Program if you need to talk to someone, or to learn about available resources. If you don’t know where to start, check out this great resource.

Earth Day is coming up on April 22, and this year’s focus will be on reducing plastic waste by 60%. We can all do our part, and if you don’t know where to start, check out these great ideas. Based on what I’ve observed when I’m out and about, many San Francisco employees and residents already use reusable water bottles and bring their own reusable bags to shop for groceries. However, single-use plastics and plastics in packaging waste are still widely prevalent. Test your knowledge with these quizzes and help spread the word.

There’s no better time than Spring to enjoy the outdoors, so plan your vacations and spend some quality time outdoors. If you haven’t yet scheduled your annual health check-ups and dental cleanings, be sure to get those scheduled. Most doctors have their schedules booked out for several months, so be sure to reserve your spot.

Be well,

Abbie Yant, RN, MA