Celebrating Civility and Kindness at Nonotuck

Nonotuck recently gathered to mark National Civility Month, providing us an opportunity to reflect upon how civility and kindness shape our workplace, and how we provide care to the people we support.

The event was hosted by the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI&B) Committee, with co-chairs Nichole Bourke and Joshua Murray guiding the conversation. Staff viewed a video compiled by Justus Perry, featuring reflections from across the organization on what civility and kindness mean in daily life and work.

The themes that emerged were clear: the importance of communication, listening without judgment, patience, empathy, and the recognition that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact. As one staff member put it, civility is “the conscious choice to treat others with dignity and respect, even when we disagree.”

Following the video, participants engaged in scenarios and discussions that explored how civility can guide us through challenges—whether it’s responding to a harsh email, handling interruptions in meetings, or navigating disagreements. Staff emphasized empathy, collaboration, and giving one another grace as cornerstones of Nonotuck’s culture.

For President and CEO George H. Fleischner, the event reinforced what has always been at the heart of Nonotuck. “Civility and kindness are not extras in our work—they are essential. They create the trust, respect, and belonging that allow both the people we support and our staff to flourish,” he says. “This is what makes Nonotuck not just a workplace, but a community.”