Together We Make a Difference: Respect & Kindness at Cook Children's

Imagine a haven where respect and kindness are contagious, spreading through the halls like laughter on a playground. A place where your unique story, your background and experiences, are not just tolerated, but celebrated. We believe this place, more often than not, is Cook Children's.

Our Values: More Than Words on a Page

When we unveiled our core values, they weren't just another corporate platitude. These were the very words YOU, our incredible team, used to describe what makes Cook Children's special. Respect, Generosity, Collaboration, Imagination, Kindness, and Safety. These aren't just words – they're the pillars that hold up the vibrant culture we're building together.

Kindness: A Ripple Effect

Treating each other with kindness isn't a one-way street. It's a pebble tossed in a pond, sending ripples outward that touch every aspect of our work. A simple act of compassion can create a truly special environment, not just for ourselves, but for the patients entrusted to our care.

Inclusion: The Strength in Our Differences

"We believe everyone deserves to feel appreciated, seen, and valued," says Wini King, Chief Diversity Officer.  That's why inclusion is the cornerstone of our diversity efforts. Our unique backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences aren't a liability; they're our greatest strength. By embracing these differences and learning from each other, we can become a more imaginative and powerful force for good.

We will have the opportunity to learn from each other from a series of virtual Lunch and Learns focused on building an inclusive and welcoming workplace. 

Building Connections: From ERGs to Open Arms

Getting to know one another is the first step to building a strong and supportive community. Through our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and open listening sessions, we're creating spaces to share experiences, forge connections, and foster a sense of belonging.

Your Voice Matters: Shaping Our Future

Over the past few years, we've actively sought your feedback through surveys like the Maslach Burnout Survey and the ID&E "Open Arms" survey. Your insights are invaluable in helping us create a workplace that thrives.

"We want you to know that your voice is heard," says Megan Chavez, Vice President of the Cook Children's Experience. "When you complete a survey, or participate in a listening session, you're directly impacting the future of Cook Children's. Your input is essential."

A Testament to Our Team: The Recognition

As an organization, ranked No. 1 in the U.S. for Best Large Employer in the Forbes’ Health Care and Social Services industry category and we ranked No. 3 among all of America’s Best Large Employees list in 2024. The rankings are a tremendous honor and they serve as a testament to the amazing team we have here at Cook Children's!

But the Journey Continues

We're always striving to be better.  As Kathy McLean, Vice President of Brand and Team Experience, reminds us, "Knowing every child's life is sacred includes everyone at Cook Children's because YOU are the foundation for our Promise. We all deserve to be treated with kindness and respect."  These values, born from your own voices, guide us every day.

Want to Make a Difference?

Take advantage of our "Dignity & the Power of Relationships" class offered through ULearn. This course explores the importance of treating everyone with dignity and fostering stronger connections with others.

Let's Keep the Conversation Going!

Over the coming weeks, we'll be delving deeper into respect, kindness, and all our core values. We can't wait to hear what these values mean to YOU! Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Together, let's make Cook Children's a beacon of respect and kindness, a place where everyone feels valued and empowered to make a difference! Please join us for a series of virtual Lunch and Learns focused on building an inclusive and welcoming workplace. Please click here for more information.