(from left to right) Michelle Littlejohn, small group supervisor for 28 years, Irma Arciga, employment counselor for 19 years, and Judy Carr, direct support professional for 30 years.

Valentine’s Day is a time to show appreciation and care to your closest friends and family. At MV Advancements, we wanted to take this opportunity to spotlight three employees who have been in a true love story with MVA throughout their careers. Between the three, they have a combined 77 years of service! This is why they love what they do:

Michelle Littlejohn, Small Group Supervisor, has been with MVA for 28 years. She oversees Bailey’s Nursery Small Group, which employs six individuals supported by MVA. Through every season, year in and year out Michelle has been there supporting and advocating for the crew.

“It’s amazing how many friends I have met through this job, life-long friends,” Michelle said. “When I think about all the clients I have worked with throughout the years, that’s why I have stayed so long. It’s the people we work with that keeps me coming back.”

Irma Arciga, Employment Counselor, has been with MVA for 19 years. When she first applied, the organization hired someone else instead of her. Then, two weeks later she received a call stating the position was hers if she still wanted it. Irma accepted and never looked back.

“I have stayed here all these years because MV Advancements makes me feel like family,” Irma said. “They truly care about their employees. When I graduated college, I decided I didn’t want to be anywhere else but here. The clients we support are like my family and I truly care about each one of them.”

Judy Carr, Direct Support Professional, has been with MVA for 30 years. She started as a small group supervisor but has recently pivoted to a role in the Brooks Street Home.

“I just love the clients I work with, each one is so special to me,” Judy said. “Nothing else really tapped into my passion like this job has and I always came back for my people—the people I support. No other job has such great people so how could I go anywhere else?”

We appreciate all our 103 employees at MVA, for their dedication to our mission and their true passion for those we serve. Happy Valentine’s Day and we hope you have a day filled with fun, family, and friends.