At River Ridge, the workplace culture is built on more than teamwork—it’s built on connection, care, and a commitment to creating joy. Spearheading this effort is the vibrant Work/Life Committee, a dedicated group of staff members who go above and beyond to make River Ridge a place where people truly want to be.
What began as a small “social committee” has evolved into a dynamic team with a clear mission: to foster morale, build relationships across departments, and bring genuine positivity into the workplace. The committee organizes a wide variety of events and initiatives designed to uplift staff and strengthen the community—and impressively, they do it all through their own grassroots fundraising efforts.
Making It Happen—Together
With representatives from every department—including health care aides, recreation, laundry, kitchen, and leadership—the committee thrives on collaboration and shared passion. Their calendar is filled with creative, inclusive events, such as:
- Employee of the Month recognition with a $50 gift card
- Staff appreciation days with lunches, personalized gifts, and raffles
- Group outings like bowling nights, golf tournaments, and reserved seating at local sports games
- Holiday events such as BBQs, slush days, Christmas parties, and even camping trips for staff and their families
Behind the scenes, it’s the committee’s resourcefulness that keeps everything running smoothly—and sustainably.
Fundraising With Heart
To fund their many initiatives, the committee organizes regular, well-loved fundraising events that involve staff, residents, and families alike. These events not only raise money but also strengthen the sense of community within the home:
- Bake Sales: Staff volunteer their time and talent to provide homemade treats, which are sold to raise funds in a warm and welcoming environment.
- Raffle Baskets: Beautifully curated gift baskets are created through team donations and raffled off throughout the year.
- Cook-Offs & Competitions: Events like chili and salsa competitions bring residents and staff together in friendly, flavorful fun.
- Garage Sales & Draws: Seasonal sales and prize draws are a favorite among residents and visitors, helping fund larger events and appreciation days.
These efforts have allowed the committee to maintain a steady stream of funding, ensuring events remain accessible, engaging, and consistent throughout the year.
Stronger Teams, Happier Homes
What’s most inspiring about the Work/Life Committee is how their efforts have created a ripple effect. By investing time and care into their colleagues, the committee has helped foster a stronger, more supportive workplace culture. Staff feel more connected, morale is higher, and that positivity naturally carries over into resident care.
The resident experience has also benefited from many of these initiatives, with joint activities like movie nights, BBQs, and seasonal celebrations helping to create a deeper sense of community throughout the home.
An Inspiring Model for Other Communities
The success of the River Ridge Work/Life Committee is a testament to what’s possible when creativity, teamwork, and passion come together. Their self-sustaining approach and strong sense of purpose have built something truly meaningful.
Through simple acts of appreciation, thoughtful planning, and community-driven fundraising, River Ridge has cultivated a workplace where people feel valued, seen, and celebrated.