Humber River Health not only serves a diverse community, but is also a diverse organization. Our Wilson site Aspen Grove Glass on the North and South sides of the building, describe the rich diversity in our hospital community. It symbolizes the shared belief in a unity connecting human cultures, societies and religions. In a highly diverse organization such as Humber River Health, the ability to support and understand one another, regardless of varied values and cultures, is exceptionally important. Staff, physicians and volunteers (SPVs) should feel included and that their values are being recognized, understood and respected. Fostering a culture of engagement and inclusivity creates a positive difference throughout the organization.

This year, the holy month of Ramadan is observed from April 2 to May 2. The word ‘Ramadan’ refers to the name of the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is a month of fasting, introspection, reflection, and a time to focus on spirituality and charity. To support Ramadan, the team at KPMG Canada in Ottawa compiled a basket filled with healthy snacks for their Muslim staff to break their fast at the office. Muslims break their fast after sunset every day during Ramadan; therefore, these snacks allow staff who are at the office late to break their fast.

This initiative was shared on LinkedIn, and caught the attention of Mike Heenan, Executive Vice President, Chief of Corporate Services and People Strategy at Humber River Health. This excellent idea was swiftly adopted by Humber River Health as well. For SPVs who observe Ramadan and break their fast either at work or on their way home, a basket of snacks is available to them in our Spiritual Centre. This centre is open at all times for prayer and meditation, and snacks have been enjoyed by the SPVs who utilize the prayer room.

The value of sharing these stories and learning from each other is immense, as seen in this story. Working in a highly diverse and multicultural organization and community provides a powerful experience in which you can learn about people and how to support others to feel included. We are tremendously grateful for all of our SPVs working on the frontlines of this pandemic and helping to keep others healthy. We are wishing a Ramadan Mubarak to our community members and staff who observe and continue to demonstrate compassion, professionalism and respect.