Community of Believers: Diversity and Inclusion

by Linda Buchalo                                   

Today’s article focuses on the third Community of Believers core value: Diversity and Inclusion.

We embrace the diversity of the human family respecting the race, religion, color, ability, national origin, gender, and age of each. We strive to be inclusive, seeking to mirror the larger community of which we are a part. This enriches the lives of us all and makes our world a better and a more just and equitable place.

Although placed third, this is the newest core value and reflects Misericordia’s commitment to celebrating our shared humanity. We embrace the diversity of all humanity, and we strive for Misericordia, its staff, residents, and families, to mirror the diversity and inclusion reflected in neighboring communities.

Residents … Within the special needs population, diversity extends beyond race, religion, culture, ethnicity, and gender. Residents are not judged based on their abilities but are loved unconditionally as God’s children. Every level of ability is valued and one of the unique features of Misericordia is its ability to promote the talents of each and every individual. It’s not uncommon to hear parents comment that the staffings at Mis are so different from the IEP meetings that we often experienced within the school district, where we listened to endless lists of all the tasks that our children could not master. At Misericordia, every staffing emphasizes the positive qualities that our children bring to the table. Everyone walks away feeling good—a testament to true inclusion.

Many of the programs on campus expose the residents to different cultures, religions, and such. People of all religions are welcomed at Mass, non-Jewish residents have attended Seder, and celebrations at the Jean Marie Ryan Center have focused on different countries, providing information as well as entertainment and foods from the featured country. In some residences, staff provide language classes to teach their native tongue to those who are interested. Sign language is also widely witnessed on campus, exposing residents to yet another means of communication and enabling better interaction for those who may not be able to master verbal skills. These are just some of the ways in which the values of diversity and inclusion are evident on campus.

The residents themselves come from different ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, but these factors never affect level of service or acceptance within the Mis family. Indeed, the Misericordia community is a model blending of different cultures existing in harmony. The Misericordia culture is one of acceptance, love, and respect. Residents treat each other with love and respect and accept the limitations of those around them. In fact, it is not uncommon to see residents helping each other, something that is encouraged and expected.

Staff … Misericordia staff represent a diverse group of individuals who help to expand the world of the residents by sharing their own culture and experiences. Staff work in harmony with each other and with the residents. Staff provide support within the greater community as job coaches, escorts, and chaperones, thus promoting inclusion of our residents both within and outside of the campus environs.

Staff recognize the rights of all individuals and work to provide the best possible care without bias. Staff work together to share responsibilities, welcome different points of view, and understand that differences add value to the Misericordia community.

One of the notable strengths of Misericordia is the ability of its staff to treat all residents as individuals with inherent rights and responsibilities. While staff are keenly aware of the limitations of the residents they serve, the DSPs, QIDPs, vocational staff, and all other workers ensure that our family members have the best opportunities and live up to their potential. The ability of staff to tailor their help to the needs of each individual sets a high standard for the Misericordia community. Tuning in to the express needs and abilities of each person ensures that everyone is fully included in the Misericordia family.

Families … Misericordia does not discriminate based on race, gender, or religion when accepting new residents. Therefore, the families that make up the greater Misericordia family are as diverse as the resident population. We see that same blending of cultures at parent meetings, campus events, fundraisers, and among volunteers. Indeed, Misericordia reflects a group of diverse people working together and learning from one another. We share and work toward a common goal; we embrace the many differences in our Misericordia family and recognize that different perspectives generate new ideas and enrich life at Misericordia.

Families connect with other families, with staff, and with residents, embracing their differences and sharing in activities that promote inclusion and diversity. We take the time to get to know those people entrusted with the care of our children and share this responsibility. We communicate and work toward solving any issues that might arise with a positive attitude.

Organization … Leadership searches out and embraces programs that foster inclusion and celebrate diversity and considers these two important factors when making decisions that benefit all of Misericordia. The Misericordia community embraces all residents, staff, and family members, without regard to race, religion, culture, ethnicity, and gender.

The administration fosters a culture of collaboration among all members of the Misericordia family. They provide a home for our family members that creates a sense of belonging. Indeed, for many residents, Misericordia quickly assumes the place of honor as their primary home, with visits to family considered a trip to their secondary home. While the initial parental feeling is one of chagrin, as parents we quickly switch to feeling elated that our children have found true happiness at Misericordia. This is a big accomplishment for children who often don’t fit in “neatly” in many situations.

The collaborative culture extends to staff. Leadership supports staff through regular engagement, acknowledging their traditions and beliefs. The dignity, respect, fairness, equity, and self-esteem that is part of the Misericordia mission includes staff as well as residents.

And the pattern continues as the organization promotes collaboration between staff and family members. Continuous improvement is a constant goal, and leadership is committed to listening, learning, and accepting feedback. In this way, all Misericordia family members are included as the organization progresses and continues to move forward.

Misericordia is indeed an example of how great things can be when we embrace our differences as we work together toward a common goal.