Our mantra bears repeating: At Hillcrest Healthcare, Everyone Matters. During Everyone Matters Week held Sept. 23-27, 2024, our teams and residents celebrated with special events with a renewed focus on culture.
We had theme days, meals, special homemade surprises from residents and more. The week kicked off with Superhero Day, celebrating team members at our three Knoxville communities, including their heart to serve, dedication to our communities and compassion toward others.
Another one was Western Day, when residents and staff dressed in their cowboy hats and boots and enjoyed western-themed treats.
The highlight of the week was the renewed focus on developing a workplace culture that culminated with team members learning about and making a commitment to align with the new Hillcrest Healthcare Culture Code.
“The Culture Code is intended to help us create the best workplace for our team members and a positive environment for those we care for,” said Doug Bryant, senior vice president of learning, talent and diversity. “Our senior leadership team, community administrators, department directors and directors of nursing attended workshops and sessions over several months to develop our Culture Code that outlines the ideal way we want to operate across our organization.”
“Everyone Matters Week was so much fun,” said Lavonda Cantrell, vice president of marketing and communities and the Hillcrest Healthcare Foundation. “We had a ‘signing day’ at all three communities and our team members signed the Culture Code, signifying their commitment to supporting our culture.”
This article by Harvard Division of Continuing Education ties an organization’s success to a positive workplace culture that provides employees with a sense of belonging, development opportunities, trust, safety and flexibility – all of which are addressed in the new Hillcrest Culture Code.
“We understand that culture is extremely important,” Bryant said. “This journey is aimed at creating a positive work environment for team members and an uplifting living environment for residents. This pursuit is never finished.”
The Hillcrest Culture Code includes 10 points:
- We treat others better than we want to be treated.
- “Not my job” is not in our vocabulary.
- We believe in taking care of the people who take care of the people.
- Education and training are essential for growth, NOT a precursor for discipline.
- We assume nothing and verify everything.
- We win as a TEAM – the TEAM cannot function without YOU. Our differences make us stronger.
- We believe connection is vital to our success, loyalty and compassion. We are FAMILY.
- We are as obsessed about our metrics as we are our mission.
- Professional growth is encouraged, a better YOU is a better US.
- Regulations guide us but do not define us.
What are your favorite parts of the Culture Code? Be sure to keep up with all the activities happening in our three Knoxville communities – and see more photos from Everyone Matters Week – by following us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hillcrestknox.