What do Civility and Kindness Mean to You?

This past August was National Civility Month, providing us with an opportunity to consider the importance of civility and kindness in our daily lives. At Nonotuck, civility and kindness are more than just words—they form the foundation of the organization’s mission, guiding interactions among employees and with the people they serve.

In celebration of National Civility Month, we encouraged staff to share their personal definitions of civility and kindness. Employees were invited to explore why these values are important to them and what they mean on a personal level.

Read employee responses below, and don’t forget that you can still share your thoughts on the Teams Channel called “The Kindness Wall.”

George H. Fleischner, President & CEO

“I want to let the Nonotuck community know how much I appreciate the outpouring of love that people shared at the first anniversary of Kitty Kelly-Curtin’s passing. Kitty was remembered in staff meetings, between staff people, and I received dozens of emails of kindness and love. This community has a wonderful heart.  It cares deeply for each other. It’s a remarkable gift to work with so many kind and generous people.”

Joshua Murray, Marketing Coordinator

“Civility and kindness are key components in any successful relationship, be it personal, professional, or otherwise. When people feel validated, heard, and respected, they can do great things; treating people with civility and kindness helps to reach that greatness.”

Gretchen Parker, Director of Human Resources

“I truly appreciate that we start all of our supervisions by asking about civility and kindness.  It brings home that this is acted upon and not just words in a handbook. Nonotuck is a truly special place to belong.  It’s so nice to focus on the positives whenever we can.”

Tony Phiv, Assistant Program Director of NorthEast AFC Services

“I 100% agree that civility is important in all relationships no matter how big or small of a group. While working here at Nonotuck I have seen the effects of civility and how it positively impacts people. I am captain of a dragonboat team, and I have started teaching my team about civility because I understand how important it is in order to keep the team together for years to come. I appreciate Nonotuck for making civility a topic that is always discussed during our staff meetings in order to make sure we understand how important it is.”