DCAC takes pride in having staff committees that inform our work internally and externally. Our four committees – Standards; Staff Engagement; Maintenance; and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) – foster collaboration across departments, spark creativity, and strengthen DCAC’s work. All staff members are encouraged to participate in at least one of the committees.
This month, we’re featuring the Staff Engagement Committee as they recently organized a potluck at DCAC’s Executive Director Will Braustein’s home.
The Ins and Outs of Staff Engagement
From planning holiday parties to off-campus excursions, the DCAC Staff Engagement Committee strives to build a sense of community and support.
“By focusing on engagement and morale, we contribute to staff well-being, which in turn supports the important work we do with children and families,” said Christa Summers, DCAC Outreach Team Director who has been on the committee since she started as a DCAC employee 7 years ago. “We are all humans first, and, unless we take care of ourselves individually and as an agency together, we cannot be the best at what we do. Laughing and spending time together is a great way to improve our health!
Ashley Kahn, Amy Bell, Ruth Zamora, Julia Urbina, Cathy Hay, and Michelle Davis are also on the DCAC Staff Engagement Committee.
“While scheduling issues have prevented me from participating in many of the meetings, the meetings allow for more collaboration and the exchange of ideas, which gives a true sense of what it means to be part of the committee,” Ruth said. “The events planned by the committee provide a chance to slow down, reconnect, and remember that we’re all human.”
Christa shared that the holiday party is always her favorite. “It is a great way to see staff connect in a different way and take a break from the usual routine,” Christa said. “In the past, we have encouraged staff to wear an ugly Christmas sweater, played fun games, and done a white elephant mug exchange.”
The Staff Engagement Committee is open to all staff, and the committee meets monthly.
“Having new ideas and energy really help make our work even more meaningful,” said Michelle Davis, DCAC Development Director. “We’ve found that campus-based activities like a hot chocolate bar and wearing flannel interject some fun ways for staff to connect.”
