A Year-End Highlight - co: assemble is Coforma's annual gathering where folx from our all-remote distributed workforce come together in-person for team building and bonding. In October, during our time together, I received the “Couldn’t Care More” award chosen by my colleagues for “demonstrating thoughtful intentions through engagement with others in both communication and actions, reflecting our broader commitment to care.” As I took to the stage, I heard nothing being said through happy tears and serious shock, realizing they managed to outwit my compulsive last-minute file checking and slipped my name onto the certificate.
I’m still a little surprised at how the commitment to care comes to life at Coforma. I saw it first in the body of the job posting back in October of 2022 which included a passage that said "The stress of job searching can make you wonder if you’re enough. Studies have even shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs when they don’t meet every qualification. We believe that you ARE enough—and that it’s okay not to meet every requirement. We’re building a culture that’s authentic, inclusive, and diverse. If you’re excited to work with us but not sure you check every box, apply anyway! You may be just right for this or another role." (Yes, I copy and pasted it into my notes app because it leapt out at me from the page) That resonated with me and convinced me to apply (even though I saw the opening the same day the window closed and had to fly through filling it out). Caring is ingrained in so many small ways from daily interactions, and strategic decisions, to the way we approach our work. It's not perfect, it's honestly iterative with forms, feedback, and continuing conversations, but you can feel the difference it makes. The past few years were so hard, and it was the care I received from those in my community, some specifically at work before I joined Coforma that helped me make it through. You truly never know what people are going through and I can say from experience that a simple act of caring really can save someone's life.
As I look back on this year, I see a journey marked by growth and challenges, but most importantly, a commitment to care that flowed to me long before it flowed through me. I’m blessed to be in a season where that can be a part of everyday life in and out of work. The 'Couldn't Care More' award is as much a reflection of my commitment to care as it is of Coforma’s and I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of it.
Instructor at Kumon of Bloomfield, NJ
5moMany more years to come!