The Ignition Commission

Augustana Chapel View made great strides this past summer. Staff and residents appear calmer and happier. There seems to be an increasing sense of pride throughout the facility and the focus on mission is stronger than ever. This is largely due to the leadership of the Ignition Commission, a 12-person super-committee suggested by consultant Clint Maun.

With the welfare of residents in mind, the Ignition Commission set the "Mission Possible" goal of having no temporary agency staffing at Chapel View by February 1, 2002. However, the dedication of the committee and employee teams has brought about success well ahead of schedule. Augustana Chapel View has been pool free since August 6, 2001!

 

The first 12 weeks of the initiative were more fruitful than any staff member could have imagined. The entire campus pulled together as one unified team. A number of sub-committees were formed to help carry out the plans of the super-committee.

• The Problems Equals Solutions Committee developed a policy stating that all employees will address problems with a possible solution in mind.
  
• The Orientation Committee started a mentoring program for new employees.
  
• The Retention Committee is focused on identifying reasons why good employees might leave employment, and producing strategies to prevent them from leaving.
  
• The Interviewing/Recruitment Committee designs means to empower employees by giving them a voice in choosing their fellow staff members. Interviewing is team-based.
  
• The Know the Numbers Committee tracks the number of agency staff being used, how many shifts per week use agency, and other statistical data to monitor progress.
  
• The Promotions Committee conducts internal marketing, keeping employees informed of accomplishments.
  
• The Talent Team Committee identifies "star" employees through rigorous evaluation. Appreciation is shown to employees who go above and beyond the call of duty. All staff members have the potential to make this list. It is an ongoing process with the ultimate goal of having every Chapel View employee on the list.

Consistency of care on this campus is truly a mission accomplished. Residents see familiar and caring faces every day. We have higher standards of achievement and duty. Better care for residents has come from dedicated employees enjoying their work, and is the true reward for our efforts.

by Steve Fritzke, Administrator Augustana Chapel View Hopkins, Minnesota