Jubilee employees at the 2026 Staff Picnic
by Sahara Bulls Baker, HRIS Specialist
When I think of workplace culture, I often think dress codes, company parties, or simply the everyday “vibe” of the office. Though these are a few aspects of workplace culture, I learned that, as part of Jubilee Housing’s Human Resources team, workplace culture runs much deeper. It shapes how people communicate, make decisions, work together, and connect with the organization’s mission. At Jubilee Housing, we work to bring our culture to life through communication and a sense of belonging, creating a workplace where employees take genuine pride in their work and feel connected to the work that they do.
Workplace culture starts at the top, with leadership, a clear mission, and a shared understanding of that mission. According to Forbes, workplace culture is “the shared values, belief systems, attitudes, and set of assumptions that people in a workplace share.” Understanding an organization’s mission and reflecting it in everyday actions creates a shared sense of purpose and shapes a strong workplace culture.
Shared purpose starts with clear and transparent communication. Clear communication is essential to workplace culture because it builds trust, encourages collaboration, and prevents unnecessary frustration. Imagine, your team is working on an important project when one member encounters a problem but fails to tell anyone. Without that crucial update, the project may become delayed, responsibilities may become unclear, and trust among team members may be lost. When employees intentionally and effectively communicate, teams can address challenges quickly, work together more effectively, and strengthen the organization’s culture.
Awareness of an organization's communication style can also help employees build a sense of belonging within the workplace. As employees learn how their colleagues communicate, share ideas, and provide feedback, it becomes easier for them to connect with their coworkers and feel comfortable in the workplace. Every year, we hold a company BBQ and an end-of-year holiday party, providing a fun and relaxing environment where employees can unwind and enjoy music, games, and other activities. In these settings, employees get the opportunity to get to know each other across departments and beyond the work within their teams. Over time, this sense of familiarity can strengthen their connection to each other and the organization and make them feel like a valued part of the team. Providing these spaces and opportunities has helped some of our employees feel more included, confident, and engaged within the organization.
When employees feel connected and engaged, they are more likely to become advocates for the organization, reinforcing its culture both internally and externally. Because culture is closely connected to the organization’s brand, a positive employee experience can strengthen its reputation and attract prospective hires and, also, in Jubilee’s case, inspire potential donors to support its mission.
A strong workplace culture helps employees feel connected, supported, and aligned with the organization’s values. By providing clear communication, a sense of belonging, and a positive work experience, Jubilee Housing continues to strive to build a workplace culture where employees are more engaged and motivated to contribute to shared goals. When employees feel valued and connected to their workplace and each other, they not only thrive individually but also help strengthen the organization’s culture and reputation.