So what exactly does the power of one mean?

Our Des Moines community exemplifies this very well. Nearly every major community initiative in Des Moines is a result of individuals setting differences aside, embracing our similarities and moving forward together. As female leaders, this “power of one” mentality resonates as we seek to support each other and lift each other up.

Specifically within MercyOne Des Moines Foundation, we are people working together to serve people. The “power of one” has caused me to reflect on several core workplace values that my team and I uphold and how they strengthen us.

1. Donor-centered approach

At the beginning of every initiative, we place ourselves in the shoes of our donors (or, in some cases, customers). What is important to them, and how can we prioritize them? What are their pain points and how can we mitigate them? How do they feel most valued and appreciated? As soon as our priorities are reshaped with this perspective, we are able to provide innovative solutions and resources to support them in a deeply personal way. Really, we are working together to serve a common goal.

2. Collaborate and listen

Our work style is hyper-collaborative. Even when working on an ancillary project, we are careful to listen and cooperate every step of the way. This not only gives us invaluable perspective, but it creates internal consensus, enabling all involved to have a sense of ownership and pride in a project.

3. Celebrate strengths

One of the many things I love about the team I work with is our diversification of skill sets. It truly means we have an expert on our team for everything from operations to marketing. This is very intentional. Because we have established a culture in which we value our various abilities, we are efficient, effective and happy. We are all important contributors who actualize meaningful change together for the common good. In the words of Aristotle, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”