(BLACK PR WIRE) – CORAL GABLES, Fla. – South Florida enjoys a rich melting pot of people and cultures from all over the world, and Baptist Health South Florida is tapping into the power behind diversity. As the region’s largest faith-based, not-for-profit health care organization, Baptist Health is committed to being the “Best Place for Diversity.” The organization joins others this month across the nation in celebrating Disability Mentoring Day. Set for Wednesday, October 19, 2011, the day allows mentees to gain experience and encourages increased hiring of people with disabilities. October 19 will also be Diversity Dining Day, when employees celebrate different cultures through an enticing ethnic cooking competition.

“Diversity at Baptist Health is more than just a program – it’s a fresh and exciting experience welcoming people from all walks of life,” said Ricardo Forbes, corporate vice president and chief diversity officer for Baptist Health. “Our October celebrations help us learn about each other, and the more we learn, the better we can appreciate our cultural facets.”

Disability Mentoring Day is a nationally-recognized day offering a job shadowing experience. This year, 10 mentees will participate and be spread throughout Baptist Health’s hospitals. The experience will help job seekers with disabilities develop skills they need to successfully compete in today’s marketplace. In 2012, Baptist Health hopes to implement a 12-week internship for people with disabilities.

“Every person can bring value to our world of diversity,” shared Christie Grays, director of culture and inclusion for Baptist Health. “Disability Mentoring Day and Diversity Dining Day are just two of the many steps our staff takes to build a place where everyone feels welcome to grow and succeed.”

Diversity Dining Day, a quarterly event at Baptist Health, highlights a culture by providing food and information booths for employees to experience. This October’s day focuses on Italy, and employee submitted recipes will be prepared and served in dining rooms. The finalists’ dishes have been narrowed down to a winner based on nutritional value, creativity and authenticity.

“This will be a day to celebrate, embrace, and reflect on diverse cultures and backgrounds,” continued Forbes. “The South Florida community is always welcome in our doors, and this month is another opportunity to applaud our differences – and have some fun while we’re at it.”

Focusing on diversity in the workforce, workplace and marketplace is what has positioned Baptist Health as the “Best Place for Diversity.” For more information on Baptist Health South Florida’s diversity practices, please contact the Office of Diversity, or visit www.baptisthealth.net.

About Baptist Health South Florida:

Baptist Health is the largest faith-based, not-for-profit health care organization in the region. It includes Baptist Hospital, South Miami Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, West Kendall Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, Mariners Hospital, Baptist Outpatient Services and Baptist Health Enterprises. Please contact the Office of Diversity for more information, or visit our website at www.baptisthealth.net.