Team building is a valuable investment for any workforce. When employees feel connected and motivated, they perform better, benefiting the entire workplace. In 2023, Campus and Community Recreation (CCR) launched a Corporate Team Building program to provide a fun, relaxed environment for teams to strengthen their bonds. With activities designed to foster communication, trust and collaboration, the program has already made an impact on many groups.
A program with a purpose
The Corporate Team Building program helps teams bond and improve communication through shared experiences without structured lessons.
“We saw that teams wanted more opportunities to come together and bond after being isolated during the pandemic,” says Ashley Tuckwood, a strategic initiatives officer for CCR. “This aligned with what CCR does — providing opportunities for people to improve their wellness and build community.”
Since its launch, CCR’s program has attracted many teams, each leaving with a renewed sense of unity. Teams can choose from various activities, ranging from team sports to fitness classes and creative outlets like arts and crafts.
A corporate team-building session blends fun with purposeful collaboration, creating lasting connections.
One key element that sets CCR’s Corporate Team Building program apart is its emphasis on creating a lighthearted, enjoyable experience for participants.
“Our corporate team-building sessions are fun and relaxed, providing a break from the usual work environment,” Tuckwood explains. “We focus on games, friendly competition and activities that strengthen team bonds and leave participants feeling energized.”
By engaging in activities outside their comfort zones, teams form stronger connections. Whether through a casual game of pickleball or a lively workout, the program helps colleagues unwind and share experiences in a new way.
Activities for every team
Activities are specially tailored to the unique goals and abilities of each team.
The Corporate Team Building program offers a diverse range of activities to suit all interests. Whether your team wants to play volleyball, practice yoga, or enjoy a board game challenge, there’s something for everyone. The program's flexibility ensures people of all abilities can participate comfortably.
“The activities in our program are highly adaptable,” Tuckwood shares. “We offer options from high-intensity to relaxed games, ensuring participants of all abilities can engage comfortably. Each session is tailored to fit the group’s preferences.”
Each session is led by experienced facilitators who create an engaging atmosphere, allowing teams to interact, communicate and collaborate naturally.
Success stories of team bonding in action
When two large U of A portfolios were integrated, consistent and collaborative shared leadership was essential. Todd Gilchrist, vice-president of University Services, Operations and Finance, shares how CCR's team-building activities played a key role: “The experts in [CCR] brought their "Minute to Win It" activities to us which immediately succeeded in breaking down barriers and created a solid foundation from which we could build an even stronger leadership team than the sum of the two parts. CCR took the time to understand what would work best for us and came very well-prepared. To say the participants, some of whom are often quite reserved, embraced the activities enthusiastically would be a serious understatement.”
Several other groups have also taken part in the Corporate Team Building program, and the results speak for themselves. Participants highlight the freedom and adaptability of the sessions, which accommodate different abilities while maintaining a focus on fun and connection.
“I enjoyed the freedom and adaptability to accommodate different abilities and comfortability with the activity,” shares one participant. Others appreciated the relaxed setting, with one participant noting, “The team-centric focus, the laughter, the competition — it was a lot of fun!”
The sessions help teams see colleagues in a new light and step out of their everyday roles. One team member shared, “This session was wonderful! It was a great opportunity to see team members in a different light and try something new. It was also an excellent break from the office.”
These testimonials reflect the program’s mission: to provide a fun, low-pressure environment where teams can connect and create lasting bonds. Participants leave feeling more energized and better equipped to collaborate.
The future of corporate team building
After a successful first year, CCR plans to expand the program with more tailored experiences for diverse teams. As more groups participate, CCR adapts to keep the program impactful.
“We aim to strengthen community ties by engaging more local businesses, expanding our activity offerings, and increasing accessibility for all participants. A key focus is showcasing the University of Alberta’s amazing facilities and programs, promoting the university as a leader in community engagement,” says Tuckwood. “We want to provide a fun, impactful way for teams to bond and improve communication.”
The Corporate Team Building program helps teams break free from the office routine and build meaningful relationships. Through games, fitness classes or creative challenges, these experiences offer a chance for teams to bond, communicate and have fun — all while improving workplace collaboration.
If your organization is looking for a fun, low-pressure way to build stronger, more connected teams, consider signing up for CCR’s Corporate Team Building program. With activities for every interest and ability level, it’s the perfect way to invest in your team’s success.