Caring is at the very core of Bethany. It shapes and connects everything we do. Our culture of caring brings out the best in Bethany; the best in us, our processes, work and interactions. It has a powerful and positive impact that expands beyond Bethany as we collaborate to improve the lives of those we serve, and the broader communities we live and work.
We build trust from the inside out, starting with each other, and extending to our residents and the public. We strengthen our culture and lead by example each time we speak up and address situations that do not reflect our values.
Our Values and Code of Conduct guide us and set expectations for ethical behaviour and decision making. They help us decide how we serve our residents and tenants, and work with each other with respect, transparency and fairness. Remember, Bethany’s Code of Conduct protects employees, volunteers, residents, and tenants by providing a common understanding of what’s acceptable and what’s not. It’s a resource that helps us understand what’s expected and why.
On the spectrum of what are appropriate behaviours in the workplace being kind to one another is a great first step. As Nancy Hughes, our Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, recently said, “There are many ways to demonstrate kindness to one another in the workplace. Kindness begins with a smile, saying “thank you” in person, holding the door open for someone behind you and asking a co-worker how they are and actually listening to their answer.”
All employees are expected to treat one another, residents, clients, families, volunteers, contractors and visitors in a respectful, kind way. I recently read a book called,“The 12 Steps to a Compassionate Life” by Karen Armstrong. The core message for living a compassionate life is to, “Treat others as you would like them to treat you.” This means being kind towards one another and recognizing each of us is doing the best we can each and every day.
On February 27, 2019, organizations around the world will be celebrating Pink Shirt Day. Let’s show our support and get our pink on! Make the focus of the day small acts of kindness. Show kindness toward someone you work with or support by saying thanks, holding the door, or eating lunch with someone new.
Kindness is one size fits all. If we all perform one act of kindness each day, the world will be a better place for all of us and those we serve.
Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Human Resources
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