On February 6th, I had the tremendous pleasure of attending the City of Jacksonville Employee Longevity Recognition Ceremony. It was a truly heartwarming event, celebrating the dedication and commitment of the city’s employees.

The Mayor, City Council, City Manager, and the Human Resources Team recognized those employees who, in 2025, reached work anniversaries spanning from 5 years to an incredible 50 years of service! Approximately 80 employees were recognized, and many of them attended the ceremony with their families and friends. The atmosphere was filled with pride and joy as these individuals were honored for their years of service.

A reception followed the ceremony and was enjoyed by all who attended. Mr. Joshua Ray, the City Manager, honored every single employee and had the crowd laughing and singing their way through memory lane with a soundtrack and video clips. It was a delightful and personal touch that made the event even more special.
It was a wonderful way for me to spend time with all the employees, including several who have been personally coached as part of the dooable health platform.

Technology, incentives, and tracking tools are without a doubt necessary for the engagement of the employee population. What’s even more valuable is being in concert with others, supporting them, and lifting them up. In a rapidly accelerating technological world, nothing will ever be able to replace a solid handshake or a hug, and that is the bedrock of dooable’s core belief- to grow without sacrificing what matters most. It’s so true…giving is getting. These personal connections are invaluable in fostering a sense of community and belonging.

When I am gifted the opportunity to be warmly introduced to a coachee’s spouse or son, or chat with a sweet grandchild who just gave his grandma a bouquet of flowers for her 20-year recognition, I am for sure the blessed one. These moments of connection and shared joy are what make this work so meaningful.

Thank you, City of Jacksonville, for allowing me to be on this journey of wellness, celebration, and life with you during your Longevity Recognition Ceremony.

A huge congrats to all!