CORE VALUES

We value the public’s health:
Health is a fundamental resource to the individual, to the family, to the community and to society. From 1900 to the end of the 20th century, the average lifespan of people living in the United States lengthened more than 30 years; 25 years of this gain was attributable to the advances in public health.

We value public trust:
Public trust means while we are mandated by county, state and federal governments to preserve and protect the public’s health and safety, we cannot fulfill our mission without keeping the public and our community partners informed, involved, and supportive of our efforts.

We value client resiliency:
Clients may recover to optimal health and make healthy decisions when supported, with science-based information, treatment and services provided by staff from a client strength-based perspective.

We value equal treatment:
Equal treatment means services are provided to all Polk County residents without regard to age, race, sex, sexual orientation or ability to pay.

We value ethical decision-making:
We make decisions that are based on professional integrity instead of personal interest and treat individuals, the community, team members and colleagues in an honest, respectful and ethical manner.

We value a healthy workplace:
A healthy workplace means a work environment that values employees, encourages teamwork, nurtures professional growth, advocates personal responsibility as well as accountability, and supports innovation and risk-taking while having a tolerance for making mistakes.