Embracing culture at LifeScape: Fostering growth, innovation, joy

This paid piece is sponsored by LifeScape.

LifeScape, where culture is a driving force, empowers staff to fulfill the mission and find joy in their work.

Creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued is what Nicole Jensen, director of talent acquisition, has found important throughout her 18 years with the organization.

“Our culture is positive and engaging; we are inclusive and respectful, which aligns with some of our values,” she said.

Jensen has been part of the Cultural Leadership Team, or CLT, for five years, drawn by her belief that culture is foundational to employee engagement, talent attraction and overall performance.

One of the cornerstones of LifeScape’s culture is the commitment to providing tools and opportunities for personal and professional development.

“A huge part of our staff share a trait: the care and dedication for the people we support. Many find fulfillment and joy in enriching the lives of those we serve,” said Kylie Garness, a human resource specialist who has been with LifeScape for six years.

Garness, who has been with the CLT since the beginning, values how LifeScape’s culture supports continuous growth and innovation through staff input, professional development and research, she added.

“They actively seek staff input to enhance LifeScape’s practices and advance their mission: empowering people to live their best life,” Garness said.

The CLT “has been working hard to help the culture,” said Danielle London, coordinator of support services of day services.

“This committee has been working hard to help the culture, and I think we are on the right track.”

London appreciates the opportunities to collaborate and celebrate achievements, which are vital to maintaining a thriving workplace environment.

“Open and transparent communication is a key element of our cultural values,” she said.

“It fosters trust and respect among team members, allowing everyone to understand and appreciate each other’s roles in contributing to our mission.”

LifeScape has “made strides to be more open in our communication and is focused on growth and development,” Jensen said.

LifeScape believes in celebrating success and making time for fun, reinforcing the importance of balancing hard work with enjoyment.

Garness enjoys the employee picnic, an annual event that’s a prime example of how LifeScape integrates fun into the culture, including families to acknowledge the support they provide to staff.

“It’s such a fun and positive environment. It’s wonderful that LifeScape is willing to spend the extra expense to ensure all staff and their families can partake in celebration,” she said.

Inviting families to events is not just a tradition but also a reflection of the person-centered approach.

Jensen appreciates the opportunity to recognize the families who support the staff.

“It’s important for the families to be included because LifeScape is person-centered,” she said. “It’s important to share that with people you love!”

Similarly, London values the family involvement at celebrations.

“I really enjoy meeting family members and seeing everyone having a good time,” she said. “And seriously, who doesn’t want to go ride go-karts for hours?”

The overall culture at LifeScape is a vital part of what makes the organization exceptional. It provides a supportive environment where staff can grow, innovate and collaborate while enjoying the work they do. By embracing inclusivity, fostering open communication and celebrating both individual and collective successes, LifeScape ensures the mission is not just achieved but enjoyed.

To learn more about opportunities to join the LifeScape team, click here.