The necessity of mission integration. A system develops processes to weave values into the life of the organization

Essential to the future vitality and viability of a mission-driven organization is the integration of the mission into the organization's programs, policies, practices, and accountability. Holy Cross Health System (HCHS), South Bend, IN, launched an intensive educational effort with managers, staff members, and trustees to reinforce the basic belief that mission permeates all departments. Using the mission statements principles of fidelity, excellence, empowerment, and stewardship, HCHS leaders initiated a systemwide mission assessment and development effort. During assessment, each facilities' ad hoc team addressed and responded to the organization's mission standards on the basis of availability of personnel, size, facility, and particular circumstances. The assessment process called for interdisciplinary, institutional review teams to explore all aspects of mission activity. This process enabled HCHS to launch a systemwide educational effort about the importance and necessity of mission integration. HCHS then used the mission statement elements fidelity, excellence, empowerment, and stewardship to define new relationships of accountability.