Building Trust and Team Culture at Interval House of Ottawa
This case study highlights the collaborative process of rebuilding trust, strengthening team culture, and fostering clear communication at Interval House of Ottawa during a period of organizational transition.
The Client
Interval House of Ottawa (IHO) provides safe shelter and support for women and children fleeing violence.
With a dedicated team and deep commitment to justice and care, IHO plays a vital role in supporting survivors and advocating for systemic change across the region.
The Challenge
As the organization navigated leadership transitions, structural changes, and the long-term impacts of COVID-19, the team recognized a need to regroup. Staff brought forward differing perspectives on communication, fairness, and accountability, alongside a shared desire to strengthen working relationships. Rather than addressing these challenges reactively, IHO chose to invest proactively in a collaborative process to foster trust, clarify roles, and support a unified path forward.
Our Approach
Sayid Consulting partnered with IHO to design and lead a process focused on connection, reflection, and renewal. The work unfolded in three phases:
- Listening and Insight Gathering
One-on-one and small group sessions invited staff to share their reflections in a safe, accessible way. Creative tools like journey mapping and personal “footprints” surfaced key themes and patterns in the team’s experience. - Facilitated Team Conversations
Structured discussions explored team dynamics, shared values, and communication norms. Participatory activities supported collective problem-solving, deeper understanding, and shared commitments. - Team Retreat and Visioning
A full-day retreat brought the team together to reflect on insights, celebrate strengths, and imagine a future grounded in trust, collaboration, and care. Staff co-developed next steps for maintaining momentum and sustaining the work. - Training for Culture Shift
- Designed and delivered a communication training tailored to IHO’s context.
- Introduced the concept of “communication vices” (e.g. blame, withholding, gossip).
- Provided practical tools and shared language for direct, respectful dialogue.
- Framed as an investment in emotional safety, trust, and aligned teamwork.
The Impact
- A renewed sense of shared purpose and care for one another
- Honest, courageous dialogue around fairness, trust, and communication
- Staff-generated commitments to build a stronger team culture
- A foundation for more consistent accountability and clearer collaboration
- Practical next steps that center inclusion, transparency, and healing
We engaged Manal’s support at a time of transition within our organization.
Manal’s approach was appreciated by all of us – the sessions felt nurturing and exactly what the team needed.
We appreciated the pace of the work and her gentle and non-judgmental approach.
The online sessions were extremely engaging and accessible, and the slower pace helped the group piece together insights over time—almost like putting together a puzzle and finally seeing the full picture.
Thanks so much Manal and Team
