Introducing Our Employee Groups: Workplace Culture Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank is proud to have a robust line-up of Employee Groups that are dedicated to giving employees a stronger voice, fostering collaboration and strengthening our organization’s culture.
But the work of Employee Groups doesn’t stop at our doors – it shapes how we connect with the community and deliver on our mission.
- Building stronger community partnershipsEmployee Groups often collaborate with local organizations, schools and advocacy groups, extending our reach and creating opportunities to share resources, volunteer and learn from others.
- Improving how we serve neighborsThe lived experiences and insights shared through these groups help us better understand the communities we serve. That knowledge directly informs how we design programs, choose distribution methods and communicate with families.
- Empowering staff as ambassadorsWhen staff feel engaged and supported, they carry that energy into the community—whether representing the Food Bank at events, volunteering or simply sharing our mission with pride.
- Developing future leadersEmployee Groups create pathways for staff to grow their leadership skills, which in turn strengthens our presence on coalitions, boards and other community networks.
In short: Our Employee Groups don’t just benefit staff – they make us a stronger, more connected and more trusted Food Bank in the eyes of our staff and the community we serve.
In the first of our Employee Group series, we would like to share a little bit about one of our most established groups: Workplace Culture.
The Workplace Culture Committee (WCC) is a long-standing, employee-driven group committed to creating a workplace that is engaging, inclusive, healthy and fun. The WCC provides opportunities for employees to connect beyond their daily work, strengthens organizational culture and enhances the overall employee experience. The group also partners closely with the Equity Council to support initiatives that promote equity and inclusion, ensuring that all staff feel welcome, valued and respected.
“Being a part of the Workplace Culture Committee has not only given me the opportunity to create some really fun events and long-lasting connections – its also given me leadership and professional development opportunities outside of my daily job role.” Kara Travers, Event, Outreach and Education Specialist.
Over the years, the WCC has grown in both scope and impact, evolving alongside the organization itself. Today, it plays a central role in planning and delivering a wide range of activities that enrich the workplace. These include signature engagement events such as the annual Staff Pirates Game and tailgate, monthly summer cookouts, planning and organizing with leadership the Food Bank all-staff gatherings, staff holiday party and family Kennywood Day. In addition, the committee regularly organizes smaller gatherings and activities designed to build camaraderie, boost morale and celebrate our team culture.
The WCC is equally dedicated to promoting employee well-being through health and wellness initiatives. Past events have included staff and community blood drives, step and fitness challenges and exercise competitions that encourage friendly competition while supporting healthy lifestyles. These initiatives reflect the group’s belief that wellness is not just about physical health, but also about creating balance, reducing stress and fostering a sense of belonging.
At its heart, the WCC exists to bring people together. By blending engagement, wellness and inclusion, the committee helps create a workplace that is not only productive but also vibrant, supportive and fun. It’s a group that ensures our culture continues to grow stronger and that our organization remains a place where people are proud to work and excited to contribute.