Every successful organization is powered by individuals who work behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. As we recognize Administrative Professionals Appreciation Day this April, we are proud to shine a spotlight on the team members who embody the spirit of our Cares Program—those who consistently demonstrate thoughtfulness, dedication, and a commitment to excellence.
What Is Administrative Professionals Appreciation Day?
Observed annually on the Wednesday of the last full week in April, Administrative Professionals Appreciation Day is dedicated to recognizing the important contributions of administrative professionals across all industries. Originally established in 1952 as National Secretaries Day, the holiday has evolved to reflect the expanding and increasingly vital role these professionals play in today’s workplace.
It serves as a reminder to intentionally pause and acknowledge the individuals who keep organizations organized, efficient, and moving forward every day.
The Backbone of Our Team
Administrative professionals are often the first point of contact for clients and the steady force ensuring day-to-day operations run seamlessly. From managing schedules and coordinating events to supporting advisors and enhancing the client experience, their impact is felt across every corner of our firm.
Their work may not always be visible, but it is always essential.
Living Our Cares Program Values
Our VLP Cares Program is rooted in two of our core values, People First and Thoughtful, in the idea of “surprise and delight”—showing appreciation, being intentional, and recognizing the moments that matter. Administrative Professionals Appreciation Day is a natural extension of this philosophy.
Beyond our internal culture, our firm is deeply passionate about being involved in our community and supporting causes that we feel strongly about. Throughout the year, we engage in a number of charitable activities, including our annual Fall Food Drive and quarterly volunteering efforts. Our VLP Cares initiative reflects our commitment to making a meaningful impact both inside and outside the office.
Organizations and causes we proudly support include:
- Mobile Hope
- Adopt-A-Highway
- Ronald McDonald House
- Bethany House
- PurpleStride – Walk to End Pancreatic Cancer
- Wreaths Across America
- Women Giving Back
- St. Baldrick's Foundation
- Suicide Awareness initiatives
- ZERO Prostate Cancer
- American Heart Association
- George Mason University Foundation
- Virginia Tech Foundation
- Dulles South Soup Kitchen
- Cake4Kids
Through these efforts, we aim to live out our commitment to care, connection, and community—values that also guide how we show appreciation within our own team.
One organization especially close to our hearts is Mobile Hope. Mobile Hope provides support and emergency shelter to youth up to age 24 who are at-risk, precariously housed, or experiencing homelessness, and empowers them to become self-sufficient and experience improved well-being. Over the past two years, our team has supported their Toy Drive by sorting donations, wrapping holiday gifts, and assisting with the setup of their Christmas Village. We also proudly partner with Mobile Hope for our Annual Fall Food Drive, where 100% of collected donations go directly to support their mission.
The Power of Appreciation
Taking time to acknowledge contributions—both big and small—strengthens our culture and reinforces what makes our team special. A simple “thank you,” a thoughtful gesture, or public recognition can go a long way in making someone feel valued and seen.
This month, we encourage everyone to pause and reflect on the individuals who make your work easier, your days smoother, and your experiences better.
How We’re Celebrating
In honor of Administrative Professionals Appreciation Day, we are taking intentional steps to celebrate our team, including:
- Personalized notes of appreciation
- Team recognition moments
- Small surprises to say “thank you” in meaningful ways
- A firm-wide outing at Level 99, a social gaming playground featuring physical and mental challenges, along with locally curated art, dining, and craft breweries—designed to encourage collaboration, problem-solving, and team connection outside of the office
These efforts reflect who we are as a firm—people first, thoughtful, and committed to supporting one another.
To our administrative professionals: thank you for everything you do. Your dedication, organization, and care do not go unnoticed. You are an integral part of our success, and we are grateful to celebrate you—not just today, but every day.
At our firm, being thoughtful is not just a value, it is something we practice. And today, we proudly celebrate those who exemplify it best.
We invite our clients and community to join us in making a difference—whether by participating in our initiatives, supporting these incredible organizations, or finding meaningful ways to give back in your own communities.
The charitable entities and/or fundraising opportunities described herein are not endorsed by, or affiliated with Cetera Wealth Services LLC or its affiliates. Our philanthropic interests are personal to us and are not reviewed, sponsored, or approved by Cetera Wealth Services LLC.