Benefit Funds and Union Ramp Up COVID-19 Vaccine Education Campaign
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the Benefit Funds, in partnership with the Union, have continued an intensive education campaign to keep your 1199SEIU employees and members informed on developing news about the vaccines, the Delta variant, booster shots and more. The Funds regularly update their website’s COVID-19 resources page, including a vaccine FAQ section in five languages. The Benefit Funds’ Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Van H. Dunn, hosts frequent webinars to answer questions about the vaccines and participates in Tele-Town Halls conducted by the Union. Members may also email questions to Dr. Dunn directly at [email protected]. In addition, the Funds are employing social media channels Facebook and Instagram to feature 1199SEIU members who have been vaccinated. On August 18, the Funds joined the Union for an Instagram Live event, with Dr. Rafael Lantigua from NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, who answered questions from members about the vaccines in both English and Spanish; you may view a replay of the event here.
If you would like to request a presentation by Dr. Dunn at your agency, please contact [email protected].
Benefit and Pension Funds Issue Their 2020 Annual Report
The 1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds have issued their annual report on the Funds' work in 2020. Through careful stewardship of employer contributions and strategic asset management, the Funds support almost 450,000 covered lives with comprehensive healthcare coverage and a defined benefit pension. The 2020 report spotlights key initiatives overseen by the Trustees’ Care and Value Improvement Committee, advancing quality care while maximizing employer contribution dollars. Read the full report.
Training and Employment Funds Help 1199SEIU Members Become U.S. Citizens
The 1199SEIU Citizenship Program, which is jointly administered by the Benefit and Pension Funds and the Training and Employment Funds to help your 1199SEIU employees and members become U.S. citizens, will start its current round of classes in September. In addition to educational services, the program includes legal assistance and a $500 citizenship application fee reimbursement. The program’s curriculum not only prepares students to take the 100-question citizenship exam, it also provides a broader understanding of U.S. history and culture, highlighting the role immigrants have played in the country. Students can enroll in a Citizenship for English Language Learners class that teaches English language skills, as well as provides an orientation to life in New York City, including navigating the mass transit system, and offers an overview of the city’s rich immigrant history. The program’s curriculum is also designed to inspire students to further their education and pursue opportunities to upgrade their skills. For more information, your employees and members may call (646) 473-8915 or email [email protected].
