Yakima potlucks bring agency staff together

Robert Ambriz
Eastern Washington Safety Officer

WSDA’s Yakima office held a potluck on July 6 to both celebrate Independence Day and encourage connection and camaraderie across programs housed in this regional building. 

Clockwise around the table from front left: Tammy Best, Alberto Hernandez, Brittany Holmes, Patrick Scott, Nick Poolman, Jorge Contreras, Hector Casique, Katie Buckley, Meili Wang, Jacqueline Sharp, and Kirk Robinson.

Especially on that second aim, it was a great success. All the chairs filled up quickly and we had to get more. Lots of food choices filled the table, from hot dogs and chicken salad, to vegetable salad. After we all had a chance to grab some grub, we went around the table and introduced ourselves, saying what program we represented, and how we spent the 4th of July. 

Making it even more special, we had a surprise guest; Deputy Director Kirk Robinson joined us. It was an enjoyable gathering, with the feel of a family reunion where we ate, talked, and had a wonderful time.

So far, I have been initiating these potluck gatherings at Yakima. However, I’d be happy to share and have any other building staff volunteer to organize them. They have been timed around holidays mostly, including Halloween and Thanksgiving. 

Staff who’ve attended have been enthusiastic, asking me when the next one will be and even suggesting themes for the future. With each subsequent potluck, we add a few more attendees. It’s been a great way to get to know the other WSDA folks in the building.

In summary: Potluck gatherings at WSDA's Yakima facility are bringing staff from the resident programs together for food, conversation and camaraderie.