Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union Local Employees: 117 Michael Padgett, President/CEO At the Los Angeles Police Federal Credit Union, recognizing the work of employees and showing appreciation is a big deal. It happens almost daily in small and big ways that range from handing out green doughnuts on Saint Patrick’s Day and candy on Easter, to “ice cream socials” that turn an otherwise ordinary summer workday afternoon into an event at the office. It comes in the form of a small pin that says “Way to Glow”, a Thank You electronic greeting card, and a host of very visual and public awards that often come complete with cash prizes of up to $2,500, a framed hung photo of the honoree at company branches and further kudos in a quarterly newsletter. Janet Kwon- Gaspard, Director of Human Resources, says recognizing employees is at the heart of the organization’s culture, lifting moral, and keeping employees motivated. It follows the basic business principle that happy employees are better employees. “It’s really a big deal here,” she said. The practice is so recurring and ingrained, that the BRAVO committee, comprised of LAPFCU associates from all levels and across all departments, was created some time ago to help with the task of selecting recipients for a host of awards among the company’s 145 employees. A second committee called CADETS (Creative Associates Dedicating Energy to Spirit) has the specific mission to increase moral and satisfaction by planning and executing activities that contribute to the overall spirit and wellbeing of LAPFCU associates. “It’s really a priority of the company to recognize all staff at all levels for their work here,” she said. At LAPFCU the list of awards is long. A Quarterly Champion Award winner receives $100, a framed award, a framed photograph that is hung in branch offices and an all expenses paid lunch with the executive team and an invited guest. During quarterly meetings that usually take place at a hotel conference room over continental breakfast, awards are also handed out for Best Suggestion of the Quarter with a $50 cash prize. A random drawing from all suggestions during the quarter also wins $50 -an effort to encourage the free flow of ideas to improve the company. At the end of the year, the winner of the Best Suggestion of the Year award receives $500. Associate of the Year and Management Associate of the Year recipients receive checks for $2,500 among other things. The winners also get new business cards with a special designation on them. There are also awards for Exceptional Service, High Impact Achievement, Most Inspirational Associate, and Perfect Attendance. Service Anniversary Award recipients get an engraved gift and $10 for every year of service starting with year 5. Every Associate receives a personalized and signed birthday card, along with 2 movie tickets.
