DLA Document Services culture event brings kids to work

Battle Creek, MIch. -

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many Defense Logistics Agency employees began spending more time working from home. After the nation's pandemic response eased, some household routines changed again when many parents returned to DLA facilities across the nation and began spending less time teleworking.

The change in daily routines affected not just the DLA employees, but also their children and family members who had become accustomed to employee alternate work arrangements. Recently, DLA Document Services Culture Action Team Co-Champions Nancy Cruz and Christine Schardt agreed that it would be beneficial to create an opportunity for the children of employees to experience their parents' workplace and understand how they support the warfighter.

This summer, the DLA Document Services site in Norfolk, Virginia, held a culture event where parents were able to bring their children to work. Although there was a small group in attendance, it had a large impact with those children who participated and helped them realize that their mom or dad was performing a vital role for the nation.

"At the end of the workday, the children understood their parents' commitment to the warfighter," said Cruz.

The children were given honorary positions and provided an outline for their roles and duties appropriate for their age. Special entry badges were provided, and it was explained how important it was to wear these badges throughout the day and remain security-

Participants walked the perimeter of the building and visited the fire department next door. They were introduced to the Norfolk DLA team, including production personnel, the Equipment Management Solutions Processing Center, the Shipboard Multi-Device Program, and DLA Finance. The children were given tasks, and participants said it was great to see that the kids love a challenge, especially when they were given the opportunity to mimic their parents. The children regarded their assignments seriously, accepting them with flawless execution, and they did not approve of their parents disrupting their workflow.

"Hopefully this experience will steer them into becoming future DLA Leaders," said Cruz.

The event highlighted the resiliency of DLA employees and their families, and encouraged a work culture that supports balance between family and careers.

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