Celebrating Public Service Recognition Week

This article was originally published on the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s online public administration program blog, Inside the MPA@UNC.

—

During the week of May 5, the Partnership for Public Service hosts Public Service Recognition Week. The event celebrates the work of our nation’s public servants and also educates the public on the many roles filled by public service employees. As part of the celebration, government agencies, mayors, governors, and public service organizations host special events and deliver messages about the importance of our country’s service employees.

What Is the Partnership for Public Service?

The Partnership for Public Service is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that works to strengthen the civil service industry for the good of the entire country. Their mission is to work with government agencies to attract new employees and bring recognition to the positive effects of public service. From public safety to mail delivery and even food inspection, public servants ensure the security of the country’s necessary services. The Partnership for Public Service founded Public Service Recognition Week in 1985 as a way of honoring all industries and professionals who contribute to public service.

How Can You Celebrate Public Service Recognition Week?

There are many ways you can get involved in helping to strengthen the relationship between public service workers and the citizens of this country. To celebrate this important week, you can:

• Send a message to a public service employee; take time to thank a city administrator for the work he or she has done in managing the services where you live.
• Bring in a speaker such as a police officer to a school in your neighborhood, or hold a career day where students can learn about public service jobs.
• Request that a public service announcement is played on your local radio station that expresses appreciation for public service workers.
• Create a video that showcases outstanding public employees in your community and post them online.
• Organize a fun public event such as a tour of your local fire station.

If you plan to host an event, make sure you put out a press release and advertisements in your local paper to increase awareness. You can also list it on your community’s calendar or local listserv.

Public service professionals are an important part of society, and their jobs require dedication and passion. As former congressman Lee H. Hamilton once said, “I can assure you, public service is a stimulating, proud, and lively enterprise. It is not just a way of life, it is a way to live fully.”

Remember, while Public Service Recognition Week is only once a year, it’s always good to let public servants know they are appreciated. Using just a few of the tips above will help let public servants know they are needed and acknowledged.