LCSNW Agency Core Value #2

Value #2: We leverage our shared expertise as a diverse and culturally competent community

Across our agency, I think we're experts at listening, learning, counseling, problem-solving, collaborating, relating to others, advocating, negotiating, and compassion.

The people who need our expertise are diverse and we have a responsibility to understand them, including the different abilities and interests, challenges and opportunities that are part of their lives. It's also important that our employees are diverse and representative of the people we serve and our recently expanded DEI Council will help us continue to build on our inclusive culture.

How are we living our value to be "culturally competent?" More than just being aware of, or sensitive to cultural differences, I believe culturally competent people are doers--they create programs and materials that best serve the various cultures represented in their communities.

When I think about our culturally competent employees, these are the best practices and skills I see:

• They/We look for opportunities to learn from others
• They/We develop skills for communicating and interacting across cultures
• They/We challenge their own cultural assumptions

I'll finish with this observation: At LCSNW we are pretty humble. We know that while we are considered experts, we simply cannot know everything about another person. The best we can do is share our expertise and learn together. Solve things together. Build together. And it is coming together that makes us able to partner for health, justice and hope.

Next week: Value #3: We strive for innovation, finding creative and beneficial solutions 

David

Health, Justice and Hope