In a world full of mission statements, vision boards, and enough corporate values to wallpaper an office building, it's easy to become skeptical. We've all seen those framed posters in company lobbies touting "synergy," "innovation," and "excellence" — words that often seem more at home in a game of business buzzword bingo than in day-to-day operations.
It's natural to wonder: Do core values really make a difference, or are they just fancy words destined to collect dust on a wall? Are they guiding principles, or just another box to tick in the "How to Look Like a Serious Organization" handbook?
At Neighborhood House, we get it. We've rolled our eyes at "paradigm shifts" and "value-added propositions" too. But here's the thing: we don't just believe our values matter — we see their impact every day. And no, that's not just another catchphrase.
So, what are these values that we claim make such a difference? Let's break them down and show you how they shape everything we do:
Welcoming with Compassion
To the best of our ability, we follow Jesus’ clear and simple teaching to love others well. That means greeting our neighbors with an open heart — listening attentively, responding with empathy, and providing encouragement and support that shows our deep commitment to caring for each individual who walks through our doors.
Restoring Hope and Dignity
We believe that human beings are made in God’s image. That’s why we affirm the inherent value and worth of every person we serve. Empowering them with the belief that a brighter future is possible is a vital aspect of our work. There is no individual or life circumstance that is irredeemable, and it’s our job to remind people of that.
Serving Well
Service is at the heart of what we do at Neighborhood House. This means going beyond meeting basic needs by providing comprehensive support that truly makes a difference. Whether it’s through our programs or personal interactions, our service is a reflection of our heartfelt desire to help our neighbors achieve their goals.
Building Meaningful Relationships
We understand that strong, supportive relationships are the foundation of a vibrant community. That’s why we strive to build lasting connections with those we serve. By creating an environment of trust, mutual respect, and genuine care, we get to know the hopes, dreams, and challenges of our neighbors.
Transforming Lives
Changing lives for the better is our ultimate goal at Neighborhood House. We believe in the potential of every human being to grow, overcome challenges, and achieve a fulfilling life. Through programs and services designed to equip and empower, we help our neighbors chart a course toward greater self-sufficiency and success.
So, Do Values Really Make a Difference?
We started this conversation wondering if values are just fancy words on a wall. After exploring our five core values, we hope you can see that at Neighborhood House, they're anything but.
Our values aren't feel-good phrases or corporate jargon. They're the real deal — the heartbeat of our organization. They guide our actions, shape our programs, and define our impact. We're not just saying that; we see it every day:
In the single parent who finds hope and a path forward.
In the elderly neighbor who no longer feels isolated.
In the young person who unlocks their purpose and starts pursuing it.
But these values aren't just for us. They're an open invitation to you. Whether you're seeking assistance, wanting to volunteer, or simply looking to make a difference, there's a place for you here. Together, we can turn words into action and create real, lasting change.
******
Click the link below to download a copy of What We Value.