Parker Street Ministries (PSM) was again recognized by CareerSource Polk as one of the Best Places to Work in the Small Business Category (1-50 employees) for 2025. This recognition honors “employers that demonstrate exceptional workplace practices and a commitment to improving the quality of life for their employees.”
Parker Street Ministries was described as a place fostering “open communication, flexibility, and a spirit of encouragement. Employees celebrate milestones together, support one another through life’s challenges, and are empowered to speak openly in an environment built on trust and compassion.”
Judges celebrated PSM’s strong benefits and employee satisfaction, noting PSM’s “Care about the whole individual” and stating there is “something special here.” Full-time employees, for example, receive paid healthcare, 5% 401(k) match, wellness reimbursement, employer-paid mental health counseling, and four fully paid “Days of Silence” each year set aside for rest, prayer, etc. This intentional rhythm reflects the ministry’s Gospel-centered values and ensures staff are supported spiritually as well as professionally.
Staff feedback underscored why PSM stands out:
- “I can’t say enough good things about my employer… I appreciate the flexibility, benefits, and the care of my soul. I’m supported, loved, and prayed over on a daily basis. How can you beat that?!”
- “Parker Street Ministries has truly been the best place I have ever worked, and I could not recommend it more highly to anyone looking for purposeful, fulfilling work.”
- “Literally the best place to work. Staff care is top priority.”
- “I have never worked for a better company.”
At CareerSource Polk’s Annual Meeting & Best Places to Work Awards event, PSM was described as “Guided by humility, truth, unity, and faith” and as “a workplace where employees are inspired to grow, serve, and bring hope to the lives of others.”
Thank you, CareerSource Polk, and congratulations to all recipients!
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Parker Street Ministries (PSM) is a 501c3 in Lakeland, Florida, that follows a Gospel-centered model characterized by living, listening, affirming dignity, and building community together in and through the Parker Street neighborhood. Parker Street Ministries is committed to Gospel-centered community development through the focus areas of: Fostering Spiritual Growth so Christ and His Gospel are front and center, Supporting Lifetime Learners through educational opportunities, Stabilizing the Neighborhood by addressing the quality and availability of housing, and Cultivating Connections so gaps in relationships and services are bridged.