A culture of care in action
- Marilyn Orr
- 15 hours ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 14 hours ago
Organizations often talk about culture. They put words on the wall: respect, collaboration, care. But culture is only real when it shows up in moments of choice.
I’ve had the privilege of working closely with the leadership team of an organization that’s been committed to building a culture of coaching and connection. That work isn’t just theoretical. It shows up in how they treat each other. Recently, it has shown up in how they treat me – not just as a coach, but as a valued member of their tribe.
After a microburst (a localized mini-tornado) severely damaged my home, many people reached out with words of support. We had friends with chainsaws help remove a 65-foot white pine that had crashed down into our bedroom and bathroom. Others loaded multiple truckloads of branches to be carted off.
Later, while painting our newly reconstructed bedroom, the doorbell rang. I had to sign for an envelope – not always a good thing! Inside, though, was a card signed by many employees from the organization that I had been working with. Along with it came a prepaid gift card to help my husband and I rebuild.
This wasn’t a transactional gesture. It was culture in action – people caring, people noticing, people choosing generosity.
Ripple effects
That’s the kind of culture that drives loyalty, engagement, and performance. It’s also the kind of culture that makes people proud to belong.
Coaching helps organizations develop leaders who are more human with one another.
And when the ripple effects of that culture circle back to touch the coach – it’s a powerful reminder that the work is real, alive, and making a difference.
I’m so deeply touched to be on the receiving end of the love that this group of amazing humans sent my way.
Leadership Coach Marilyn Orr is Managing Director, Coaching & Program Delivery, for Vision Coaching.