Communication is at the heart of everything we do. It’s not just a tool; it’s the bridge that connects us, allowing understanding, collaboration, and community to flourish. In my journey as COO of Gateway, I’ve come to realize that workplace culture isn’t just a background element of an organization—it’s the stage upon which every meaningful connection, innovation, and success is built.
Our workplace culture is more than a set of values or policies; it’s the story we tell ourselves and the people we serve. It’s the mission that drives us. It’s about how we show up for one another, the community, and the broader business world around us. When organizations get workplace culture right, they don’t just create better environments—they build a foundation for growth, empathy, and shared success that ripples outward into their communities.
The Journey to Building Culture
Every organization has a story to tell, and Gateway’s story is one of evolution, resilience, and vision. When we rebranded from HASA to Gateway, it was more than a name change—it was a reflection of our deep commitment to being the conduit for communication and understanding.
Rebranding was an opportunity to examine who we were, what we stood for, and how we wanted to lead. It wasn’t always easy, but meaningful change rarely is. As we navigated this transformation, we learned that the key to creating a culture that thrives lies in listening—truly listening—to the voices of our team, our clients, and the communities we serve.
It’s through this ongoing dialogue that we continue to shape a culture rooted in inclusion, integrity, and respect. Each interaction, from how we onboard new team members to the way we engage with local businesses, adds a new chapter to our shared story.
Why Workplace Culture Matters
Workplace culture isn’t just important—it’s transformational. For organizations like Gateway and for businesses across Maryland, a strong culture does three critical things:
- Fosters Connection: In a world that often feels increasingly disconnected, culture gives us a sense of belonging. At Gateway, every team member knows their role contributes to a larger mission: ensuring that everyone can understand and be understood. This shared purpose strengthens relationships and drives collaboration.
- Empowers Communication: Culture sets the tone for how we communicate within and outside our walls. By cultivating a culture of openness and inclusion, we ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and valued—whether it’s an interpreter advocating for better access, a team member sharing a new idea, or a community member seeking support.
- Drives Impact: A great workplace culture isn’t just good for employees; it’s a competitive advantage. It’s what allows businesses to attract and retain top talent, build trust with customers, and create lasting change. At Gateway, we see the impact of our culture every day—through the dedication of our team and the transformative work we do with our community.
Culture as a Community Catalyst
The impact of workplace culture doesn’t stop at the office door—it extends into the local business community and beyond. A thriving workplace culture inspires innovation, fosters partnerships, and creates opportunities for growth.
At Gateway, we actively collaborate with local businesses, organizations, and institutions to build a more inclusive and connected Maryland. Our audiology clinic supports individuals across all age groups, helping them regain not just their hearing but their ability to participate fully in life. Our interpreting services break down barriers, making workplaces, schools, and healthcare settings more accessible.
These contributions wouldn’t be possible without a strong culture driving our mission. And the ripple effect is clear: when organizations invest in culture, they create stronger communities where everyone benefits.
What We All Share
At the end of the day, culture is about what we share—our stories, our values, our commitment to one another. It’s about creating a workplace where people aren’t just employees; they’re storytellers, advocates, and champions for change.
As I reflect on Gateway’s journey, I’m incredibly proud of the culture we’ve built and the stories we continue to write together. Building a good culture takes work and it’s a continuous process, one which we’re looking to improve every day.
For every business leader, team member, and community partner reading this, I encourage you to think about your own culture. What story are you telling? How are you fostering connection and communication? Because when we invest in culture, we don’t just transform our workplaces—we create a legacy that enriches us all.
Let’s continue building bridges together.
by Emilie Aguilar
Learn More About Gateway
Gateway connects people to their worlds and aids individuals in their ability to understand and to be understood. Gateway has grown into an organization that serves more than 4,000 children and adults every year, helping them communicate more effectively. With programming both on our Baltimore campus and through community-based programming, we provide education, access, and medical support to anyone who needs it.
We envision a society where everyone can understand and be understood and where everyone is treated with integrity, compassion, and equity.
