The Power of Communal Healing: Advancing Whole Person Health Together

Written by: Connie Summers, Chief People & Culture Officer

As we celebrate Hispanic-Latino Heritage Month 2026, we honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. This year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” recognizes the leaders, advocates, caregivers, educators, artists, and community members whose vision and perseverance continue to create stronger, healthier communities. We also celebrate the Hispanic and Latino members of our workforce whose contributions strengthen our culture of belonging.

At Compass Health, this theme aligns closely with our commitment to Whole Person Health. Health and healing are shaped not only by physical and behavioral health needs, but also by culture, family, community, identity, language, and lived experience. Healing happens through connection, understanding, and belonging. Supporting the whole person requires us to understand the whole person.

This commitment is reflected in our GRACCE values and our work to advance Fairness, Equity, and Belonging (FEB). By demonstrating Growth, Respect, Accountability, Compassion, Collaboration, and Excellence, we help create environments where clients, families, workforce members, and community partners feel valued and supported. Through Fairness, Equity, and Belonging, we strive to ensure that every person has the opportunity to thrive, access equitable care, and experience a true sense of belonging.

We also recognize the many Hispanic and Latino community advocates, leaders, and organizations whose work strengthens the health and well-being of our region. Their efforts to expand access to healthcare, behavioral health services, education, housing, advocacy, and cultural connection embody the spirit of shaping the future together and demonstrate the power of community in creating positive change.

One resource available to Compass Health workforce members is CultureVision. It offers insights into cultural beliefs, communication styles, family dynamics, health practices, and social factors that may influence a person’s healthcare experience. Exploring these perspectives can help us better understand the individuals and communities we serve and support more culturally responsive, person-centered care.

Understanding difference is not intuitive. It is learned.

Providing culturally responsive care requires curiosity, humility, and a commitment to continuous learning. When we take the time to learn, listen, and seek understanding, we can reduce unintended barriers, build trust, and create opportunities for stronger relationships, greater belonging, and better outcomes.

This Hispanic-Latino Heritage Month, we encourage our workforce to learn about the histories and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities, recognize the advocates and organizations serving them, and engage in meaningful conversations with curiosity and respect. Each of us can embody GRACCE in ways that strengthen belonging and enhance the care we provide.

As we honor the pioneers who have shaped our communities, we can also commit to shaping the future through continuous learning, cultural humility, and a shared commitment to Whole Person Health. Together, we have the opportunity to create a future where every person feels seen, valued, respected, and supported.