What is Philly at Work?
At some point in our careers, we all encounter moments when we need extra support at work, whether that means navigating the workplace as a person with a disability, coping with the loss of a loved one, or managing personal challenges that do not clock out at the end of the day.
Just as often, we find ourselves on the other side. We notice a colleague who seems overwhelmed or is struggling, and we want to help but may not know how to approach the situation in a respectful and meaningful way.
That is why the Philly at Work: Looking Out for Each Other video series was created. Through expert guidance, real examples and practical resources, the series helps City employees better understand how we can support ourselves and one another at work.
In this installment, Shakeya Foreman, Employee Ombudsperson for the City of Philadelphia, discusses a resource designed to give employees a place to be heard, explore their options and determine what steps may work best for them.
What is the Office of the Employee Ombudsperson?
Sometimes, we need someone to listen without the pressure of a formal workplace process.
Established in 2023, the Office of the Employee Ombudsperson works within the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer to provide City employees with a voluntary, neutral space to discuss workplace concerns, better understand their options and consider possible next steps. In 2026 the office added Joshua Odam, Assistant Employee Ombudsperson, to increase capacity for direct services provided. Where one person once had to follow up, build relationships, notice patterns, answer questions, and be available when someone needed a confidential place to turn, now there are two. Additional staff means we can be in more places, have more conversations, and notice more of what is happening with our employee base.
The ombudsperson does not make decisions for employees or automatically solve a workplace problem. Instead, the role helps employees think through a situation, identify options and determine how they may want to move forward. The office also uses anonymized data about concerns brought forward by employees to identify broader patterns and workplace issues. Those insights can help inform recommendations for creating safer and more supportive working environments across City government.
Recognizing Ombuds Day
This year, Ombuds Day is October 8, 2026, offering an opportunity to recognize the work of ombuds professionals and increase awareness of the resources they provide.
Ombuds Day highlights the role ombuds can play in helping people and organizations navigate conflict. This year’s observance focuses on the connections between ombuds work and mediation, including shared principles such as confidentiality, fairness and self-determination. Both approaches can help people communicate across differences, explore options and find constructive paths forward.
For City employees, Ombuds Day is also an opportunity to learn more about a resource that is available throughout the year. You do not have to wait until a workplace concern becomes overwhelming to talk with the Employee Ombudsperson.
Why this matters
Conflict and difficult conversations are normal parts of working with other people. Miscommunication, disagreement and uncertainty will happen. What matters is having resources that help employees engage with those situations thoughtfully and constructively.
Having someone who can listen, help you ask questions and talk through your options outside of formal workplace processes can make it easier to address concerns rather than setting them aside.
The principles behind Ombuds Day reflect that idea. Ombuds professionals help people navigate conflict while maintaining their ability to make their own decisions about what happens next. This year, we are celebrating a growing office, a new colleague, and the possibilities that come with not having to do this work alone.
Taking care of our own well-being is also part of looking out for each other. Knowing when to ask for help, understanding the resources available to us and feeling comfortable having difficult conversations can help us show up more fully for ourselves and our colleagues.
Ready to join a workforce that supports you through life’s challenges?
The City of Philadelphia is committed to supporting its employees with empathy, care, and a people-first approach. Alongside competitive salaries and a wide range of comprehensive benefits, we offer the resources and support you need to thrive, both at work and beyond it.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to explore a career in municipal service, this is it. Discover our employment opportunities at work.phila.gov today!
