Fostering a sense of community beyond the workplace is a vital part of Surf Internet's culture. Recently recognized as a 2024 Best Places to Work in Indiana by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, Surf Internet continues to demonstrate its commitment to its employees' well-being. On Sunday, July 21, employees, along with their families and friends, gathered on the United Federal Credit Union Rooftop at Four Winds Field for a day of fun and camaraderie.
Upon arrival, attendees were treated to a variety of classic ballpark food and drinks. As the rooftop buzzed with conversation and laughter, the match-up between the South Bend Cubs and the Quad Cities River Bandits commenced.
Excitement peaked when South Bend Cubs mascots, Stu and Swoop, made their way to the rooftop. Both children and adults alike were delighted by their sudden appearance and hoped to get in a quick photo with them before they left.
Gene Crusie, CEO of Surf Internet, always enjoys getting the company together to support the South Bend Cubs. He emphasized the significance of such outings for the company's culture.
“We have nine offices in three states, so it’s not often that we can all get together,” Crusie said. “We’re all about our people, our culture, and our family. This is a fantastic opportunity to get everyone together outside of work and get to know each other in a social setting.”
Crusie added that he looks forward to this outing every year, as it allows him to catch up with team members he doesn't see often.
“It’s an opportunity to talk about life and personal things without having to focus on work,” Crusie said. “It’s a chance to reconnect or get to know each other better, which I think is great.”
Jeff Makries, human resources manager at Surf Internet, echoed these sentiments, as he enjoys the opportunity to build relationships outside of work.
“I love that we can bring our employees and their families together for a fun day to hang out and intermingle," Makries said. “Offering fun outings like this, which aren't mandatory but enjoyable, allows people to establish more personal connections.”
Kevin Bush, chief revenue officer at Surf Internet, expressed his excitement about the company outing, as he mostly works remotely. He is glad to finally be able to put names and faces together of those he hadn’t met in person before.
"It's great to spend time with everyone,” Bush said. “Meeting people face to face after knowing their names but not their faces is really exciting. Seeing your coworkers on a more personal level dramatically helps improve overall working relationships."
Through employee outings like this, Surf Internet demonstrates its commitment to building a strong, interconnected work community, enhancing employee morale, and fostering lasting relationships.
"I hope our staff and their families have fun today,” Makries said. “It's a gorgeous day, so I want everyone to take advantage of it and enjoy each other's company."
To learn more about Surf Internet, visit surfinternet.com.
