In this blog series "Discussing Diversity," Riverside Health System Therapy Recruiter Michael Ryan answers questions about diversity, equity and inclusion and how Riverside contributes to a welcoming workplace environment for all.
 

How does Riverside Health System incorporate values of diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace?

At Riverside, our goal is to live the “Riverside Care Difference” every day. This means caring for others as we would care for those we love. In support of the health system mission, we recognize the value of every team member, patient, resident and those in the communities we support. We are committed to fostering an equitable and inclusive culture where all are valued and supported.

Riverside’s diversity, equity and inclusion strategy includes three long term objectives:

• We will build a diverse talent pipeline with advancement opportunity for all.
• We will create and foster an inclusive culture that supports the diversity of our workforce.
• We will reinforce our commitment to health equity and community outreach.
   

What DE&I programs or initiatives does Riverside have in place?

Riverside has established an external think-tank group entitled Virginia Organization for Inclusive Concepts and Equitable Solutions (VOICES). VOICES is comprised of more than 30 DE&I practitioners from local health systems, businesses, higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations that come together to discuss DE&I best practices and community collaboratives. In partnership with Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), the group is currently conducting equity focus groups across Hampton Roads in communities of color and underserved communities. The results will be shared with the Community Health Needs Assessment leadership team to better inform the process and further support underserved communities.

Riverside has partnered with several community organizations to launch initiatives to support communities of color and the underserved populations within our service area. Here are just a few of the initiatives:

• American Diabetes Project Power is a free, at-home, after school program that assists students ages five to 12 with fun age-appropriate exercise and nutrition challenges designed to prepare them to make better healthy lifestyle choices.
• Urban League of Hampton Roads Project Ready is a high school retention and college access program designed to help make our Hampton Roads high school students more competitive in the global marketplace. The program builds rewarding relationships, explores college and career pathways, teaches work and school readiness, instills cultural awareness and provides financial education to prepare students for college, career and life.
• An Achievable Dream is a nationally recognized K–12 program dedicated to the belief that all children can learn and succeed regardless of their socioeconomic background. The organization brings equity to education by providing opportunities for success in school and in life by partnering with public school districts to co-operate schools in primarily under-served communities providing additional resources to level the playing field for students.
   

How do you ensure that all employees feel welcome, including new hires and interns?

Riverside provides orientation for every new team member and intern, which includes an introduction to our leaders and an overview of our organization. We also offer mentorship and development opportunities to all team members. Riverside creates and fosters an inclusive culture that supports the diversity of our workforce through education and by recognizing diverse observances and the diversity of our team members throughout the year.
 

Why do you think it’s important to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace environment?

When team members feel valued, supported and included as part of a team that is making a difference, they are more productive and more likely to stay with the organization. Our team members are our greatest asset. We want every team member to feel that they belong at Riverside, and that they are valued and respected.

For more information about Riverside’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, please visit our website at riversideonline.com/about/diversity.
 

What are you looking for in UD students who want to intern or work at Riverside? How can they stand out when speaking with your recruiters at our career fairs? 

We’re looking for students that want to utilize their unique skills and knowledge to make a difference in the communities we serve. We’re looking for UD students that want to make positive contributions and support our mission, to care for others as we would care for those we love. 
 

Are you currently hiring interns or entry-level employees? 

Yes, we hire entry-level employees and interns frequently. 
 

Anything else UD students should know about your organization? 

We are committed to creating and fostering an inclusive culture that supports the diversity of our workforce and serving the community in Southeastern Virginia.  

Riverside Health System is here for you when you need it most. Our team is focused on compassionate, collaborative care—designed just for you. We offer a comprehensive span of services, from birth of a child through end of life, touching more than two million people each year. Our care is integrated, allowing us to work together seamlessly across our network to support you in health, illness, recovery and wellness. We offer some of the most medically distinguished clinicians in the country, along with advanced technologies, in many convenient locations right where you live and work.

Riverside Health System offers:

• Four acute care hospitals 
• One behavioral health hospital
• Two specialty hospitals—a rehabilitation hospital and a critical illness recovery hospital—operated in partnership with Select Medical
• More than 600 clinical providers
• More than 9,500 team members
• A coverage area of 8,000 square miles in Coastal Virginia
• Six nursing home facilities
• Three vibrant continuing care retirement communities