True purpose and awesome culture
Pros
When I came to work @KVC I was a bit taken aback at the sheer amount of learning required for my job and how they wanted me to be self driven for most of it. Now I am grateful knowing that all of my fellow staff members went through the same process. I have never worked in an environment where I felt so supported and valued by my fellow staff members, managers and supervisors. The added bonus here is the kids. Nothing makes coming to work easier than feeling like you matter. The longer I am here the more I can see the big picture which includes how our system actually is a small part of a super comprehensive plan to provide the help and healing that our these kids and their families need! Once in a while I might get a little overwhelmed at the sheer gravity of it all, but my teammates are always ready to jump in just as I am for them. The tangible benefits are great too. Robust coverage packages through Delta dental, BCBS health and EyeMed vision along with prepaid legal, FSA/HSA, and more I don't even remember and I pay less than I did through my old employer. I do wish we had AFLAC coverage available but that was definitely not a deal killer for me. I also look forward to the day when we have enough committed staff members that we can actually call our units "over-staffed" Bottom line is if you are looking for a fast-paced exciting team environment were you can make a real difference everyday; I say you could certainly do worse than giving KVC Health Systems a shot
Cons
Being "In the thick of it" (where child and staff interract) is a small and seemingly enclosed system. It is sometimes very difficult to get a birds-eye view. We don't get to see all the moving parts so it can be very easy to discount what we do as unimportant or ineffective and there is a high possibility of morale falling; but then you see little signs of a kids improvement. Less defiance, fewer episodes, more effective coping with stressor: and you have hope for that kid.. Then when they discharge and you know they will be successful... Being right at the edge of staffing requirements can make a fast-paced environment go from exciting to more than just exciting in like a quick fast hurry. Also working for a not-for-profit often means things staff would like to have are put on the waiting list so we get the things we need. (Although we did get free massages this last week). Finally such an environment requires all staff to be united but sometimes in a communication breakdown some information will get lost in the shuffle which can leave some members of the team feeling out of the loop or like their opinion doesn't count.
