Register

The new Employee Well-Being Program Schedule is out!

Check it out below under Upcoming employee well-being programs. Register in Talent!

New Discounts!

Washington Football Team State Employee Appreciation Day! October 17, 2021! Get your tickets now!

Check out Verizon Fios and Verizon Wireless employee discounts available 

T-Mobile has a great deal going on right now

There is a new bakery in town with delicious crusty old-world tradition bread offering a discount to VCU employees!

Check out all our discounts available!

WW (Weight Watchers Reimagined) Current Promotion

New Webinars are available! 

Check it out below under Work/life Webinars and Workshops

Free Live and On-Demand Classes, Discounts and Resources

Did you know VCU employees have access to free online classes through PerksatWork? Join PerksatWork and register with your VCU email address to join. Some of their offerings include:

• Free Live and On-Demand Online Classes for adults and children including restorative exercises, personal development, sports and fun for kids, and much more! Classes fill up quickly so sign up early!
• Resources for Working Parents, Stress & Anxiety, Work from Home, Learning & Development which includes online classes and discounts.

Check out all our emotional wellness resources at ramstrong.vcu.edu including RecWell’s Mental Wellness Resource Guide - resources for sleeping, stress management, coping, self-care, mindfulness/meditation, and more!

Returning to work - COVID-19 checklist

As many will start returning to work, there may be people feeling anxious about possibly being exposed to COVID-19 or even returning to their old routine after months of upturn. Below are some tips from the National Alliance on Mental Illness to help you adjust more easily.

• Do everything you can to help protect yourself and others from getting sick. Taking these steps may help you feel more in control, while also helping to prevent the spread of infection.

1. Wash your hands regularly, for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.
2. Clean all high-touch areas every hour.
3. Wear a face mask or covering.
4. Stay six feet away from others when possible.
5. Stay home if you are sick and stay away from others experiencing symptoms if you can.

• Use resources offered to you to help cope with the changes and emotions. If you see a therapist, continue to stay in touch during your transition back into your work routine.
• Listen to the VDH Tips for everyday life during COVID-19
• Check out resources provided by the Virginia Department of Health
• Try to embrace the return to structure. Lack of a routine can be a driving force for many mental illnesses and can heighten anxiety. If you can, try to get into your work routine at home before physically returning – wake up at the normal time, get bathed and dressed as you would normally, and try to return to your normal timeline during the day.
• Try to make sure you are getting a healthy night’s sleep. While it may seem simple, getting enough sleep can make an incredible difference on our mood and amount of anxiety during the day. Try to get back to your routine from before quarantine and try to go to bed without interruptions to allow for the best rest possible.
• Remember – it is okay and normal to feel anxious. There is nothing wrong with feeling anxious about changes and uncertain times, and you are not alone in these feelings.
  

VCU's Massey Cancer Center's registered dietician, Allie Farley, sends out a simple and healthy recipe along with meal planning tips you can use throughout the week. 

Click here to sign up and receive these weekly emails! 

Visit Allie's blog on Diet and Nutrition for recipes and more information about the connection between diet and cancer survivorship.

VCU HR provides employees with a list of curated wellness resources to support their well-being during the COVID-19 crisis. These resources are categorized by the eight dimensions of wellness listed in the dropdown boxes below. 

Across the United States, many communities are experiencing unrest and distress related to the unjust treatment of individuals who are Black in this country. Coping Tips can be found here in the article Coping During Community Unrest.

As we move forward and doors begin to open again, we must remember that these doors open our hearts to great understanding and shared experiences. The Joy on the Other Side of the Door.

Anthem's myStrength recently added several new activities to address racism. You can sign up for myStrength via the Anthem EAP website to bypass any need for a code. Go to anthemeap.com and enter Commonwealth of Virginia. Find the myStrength Center and choose the sign-up button. You can then set up your account and unique password. There is also a myStrength app.

• Racism, Grief, and Loss – The ongoing pain of racism and violence.  A 5-step activity. 
• Racism-Related Stress and Mental Wellness – During this stressful time, myStrength is here for you.  A 6-step activity.
• Talking to Your Kids about Racism, Violence, and Protests – Addressing a complex subject carefully, thoughtfully, and honestly.  An 11-step activity.
• A Thousand Cuts – Understanding and responding to race-related microaggressions.  A 7-step activity.
• A Difficult but Necessary Conversation – How to navigate sensitive discussions about race and discrimination.  A 6-step activity.

AnthemEAP also offers articles and resources which can offer support to those impacted by recent events. 

As communities lift stay-at-home restrictions, it's important to keep taking steps to protect yourself from COVID-19. Find out how to safely travel, visit restaurants, go to the gym and more during reopening.

As VCU begins a phased on-campus opening of the university, here are some resources.

Life after lockdown should start with this healthy to-do list By American Heart Association News

How to Cope with Job Stress and Build Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic by the CDC

Virginia Department of Health's Prevention Tips 

Employees: How to Cope with Job Stress and Build Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic - Tips from CDC

Amid COVID-19, Rams in Recovery advice resonates with a broader audience. Tools that help people recovering from addiction get through their day-to-day lives are largely applicable during this time of social isolation.

Did you know......

If you are an Anthem COVA Care member, you can pay $0 for a LiveHealth Online visit! No need to get in the car and go to the doctor. You can now see a doctor using your smartphone, tablet or computer, any time, day or night.

• No copayment for Anthem COVACare members
• Medical visits with board-certified Anthem doctors 24x7/365
• Future Moms Breastfeeding Support
• Behavioral Health services: Psychiatry, Psychology, and EAP
• E-prescribing to your pharmacy of choice*
• Available to Anthem members and
  non-members

Go to livehealthonline.com or download the app so you'll be ready whenever you need these LiveHealthOnline services.

VCU's is now a Smoke ad Tobacco-Free Campus!

When you smoke, it puts you at a higher risk for diseases like COVID-19. Quit smoking for yourself and the ones you love. For support and resources to help you quit, visit QuitNow.net/Virginia

If you have any questions or would like to receive a virtual Quit Kit, please contact Cindi Phares, cphares@vcu.edu or 828-1521 or visit tobaccofree.vcu.edu.

What is RamStrong?

Wellness is an active process through which people can make choices toward a more holistic well-being. RamStrong is a collective wellness resource for VCU faculty and staff. The RamStrong concept was developed by the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute. Learn more about RamStrong.

Upcoming Employee Well-Being Programs

All Well-Being Programs are now virtual - Join in from anywhere! Open to everyone!

October 2021 - Employee Well-Being Programs

Programs remain virtual

Wednesday, October 6^th – 1 pm

Getting a Head Start: A step-by-step overview of your plan

(Presented by VCU HR and TIAA)

Retirement may seem like a long way off but it’s never too early to start planning your savings strategy and give your money more time to accumulate.

Register: Talent@VCU

Wednesday, October 6^th – 9 am to 4 pm

Flu Immunization Clinic – MCV Campus

Go to https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/employee-health/flu-vaccination-clinics/ to sign up and get more information!

Thursday, October 7^th – 11 am

Taxes in Retirement –

Learn how the new tax changes will affect your retirement

(Presented by VCU HR and Assoc of Financial Educators)

Learn how to take control of your tax situation so that no matter what happens with laws moving forward, you are in control.

Register: Talent@VCU

Thursday, October 7^th – 12 pm

Ask Fidelity: The Role Roth IRAs can play in retirement

(Presented by VCU HR, VCUHS HR and Fidelity)

There is power behind the Roth IRA. Learn more about how you can take advantage of this savings vehicle for your retirement portfolio.

Register: Talent@VCU

Friday, October 8^th – 12 pm

Bodyweight Strength with Tanika

(Presented by VCU HR and VCU Dept of Recreation & Well-Being)

Strengthen all of the major muscle groups in your body by participating in this Bodyweight Strength fitness class!

Register: Talent@VCU

Tuesday, October 12^th – 2 pm

National Savings Day – Get Started and Save for the Future You!

(Presented by VCU HR and Fidelity)

Learn strategies and tips to help you manage your financial future with confidence!.

Register: Talent@VCU

Wednesday, October 13^th – 11 am

Supporting colleagues’ and your emotional well-being

(Presented by VCU HR and Anthem EAP)

It’s important to recognize signs of distress and be able to help. This session focuses on awareness, the power of listening, and techniques for supporting your colleagues as well as yourself, and create a culture of emotional wellness.

Register: Talent@VCU

Thursday, October 14^th – 9 am to 3 pm

Flu Immunization Clinic – Monroe Park Campus

Go to https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/employee-health/flu-vaccination-clinics/ to sign up and get more information.

Thursday, October 14^th – 12 pm

Deep Stretch with Jess

(Presented by VCU HR and VCU Recreational Sports)

A slower 30-minute practice focused on active stretching of muscles and opening of connective tissue. Release built up tension, prevent injury, increase blood flow to muscles, and increase long-term flexibility. No equipment requirements, though a yoga mat is recommended.

Register: Talent@VCU

Tuesday, October 19^th – 11 am

Myths and Facts about your VCU retirement plans

(Presented by VCU Human Resources)

Misconceptions about retirement benefits can lead you to miss out on opportunities. We will destroy common myths about retirement benefits through VCU, and share good news about the flexibility and opportunities actually available.

Register: Talent@VCU

Wednesday, October 20^th – 2 pm

Guided Meditation

(Presented by VCU HR and VCU Dept of Recreation & Well-Being)

In a time of chaos and uncertainty, our 30-minute guided meditation will provide a sense of calm, peace, and balance, while improving attention, focus, and ability to work through stressful circumstances.

Register: Talent@VCU

Thursday, October 21^st – 12 pm

Drive Away Happy

(Presented by VCU HR, VCUHS HR, and Virginia Credit Union)

Learn how to make smart car-buying decisions and get tips for negotiating the purchase of a new or used car.

Register: Talent@VCU

Monday, October 25^th – 9 am to 3 pm

Flu Immunization Clinic – MCV Campus

Go to https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/employee-health/flu-vaccination-clinics/ for more information.

Wednesday, October 27^th – 2 pm

Guided Meditation

(Presented by VCU HR and VCU Dept of Recreation & Well-Being)

In a time of chaos and uncertainty, our 30-minute guided meditation will provide a sense of calm, peace, and balance, while improving attention, focus, and ability to work through stressful circumstances.

Register: Talent@VCU

Wednesday, October 27^th – 2 pm to 6 pm

Flu Immunization Clinic – VCU Police Department

Go to https://hr.vcu.edu/current-employees/employee-health/flu-vaccination-clinics/ to sign up and get more information.

 Additional webinars and virtual sessions:

Although we are not offering in-person events at this time, here are some other virtual well-being classes:

In Talent – Thriving@Work: Leveraging the Connection between Well-Being and Productivity, Managing Your Personal Investments, Arianna Huffington’s Thrive 02: Learning How to Unplug and Recharge, Mindfulness, Meditation, Life Mastery: Achieving Happiness and Success, De-stress: Meditation and Movement for Stress Management and many other online classes

(in Talent – under Learning in the search box type keyword: Well-Being, finances, happiness, or any other topic you may be interested in)

 VRS (Virginia Retirement System) offers numerous financial wellness courses. These can be found at: https://enrich.varetire.org/courses

 Also, Fidelity, TIAA, and Virginia Credit Union (VACU) offer numerous webinars and information. You can find upcoming webinars listed below under Work/life Webinars and Workshops

VCU Recreational Sports

VCU Recreational Sports – offers a diversity of virtual programs including fitness, wellness, outdoor programs, parent and child programs fun and games, and more!

Interested in joining WW (Weight Watchers Reimagined)?

A happier, healthier life starts here

Sign up today! (You will need to enter your state ID # for the unique ID field - To find your State ID # - it is on your VCU health plan ID card. If you don't have a health plan ID card you can get it from the state's employee direct system (https://edirect.virginia.gov) by using the Forgot ID function under the register now link)

Current WW promotion

Hello to a healthier you! Sign up by October 31 and get a Free Hello Success Kit with your WW membership!

The Commonwealth of Virginia and WW have launched new Private Virtual Workshops just for us!

WW’s Workshops have helped millions of members build healthy habits for real life, and I’m excited to share that employees now have access to Private Virtual Workshops through the Commonwealth of Virginia and WW partnership.

Who: Just us—that’s it! These Workshops are exclusive to our organization, so get ready to see some familiar faces.

What: Weekly guidance from a WW Coach in a virtual group setting that will help move you closer to your weight-loss and wellness goals. The Workshops are fun, supportive—and did I mention private?

Where: Right on your phone (or computer). These private Workshops are virtual, so you can get live stay-on-track support from a WW Coach in the palm of your hand. It couldn’t be easier!

When: Current WW Members can view the Workshop schedule by joining the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Connect Group. Just click here to join.  IMPORTANT: You must open this link on a mobile device to be directed to the Connect group.

⭐ WORKSHOP SCHEDULE ⭐

Wednesday, 12:15 PM EST with Coach Bobbi C.

Not a Member? Learn more about our partnership with WW at WW.com/us/CommonHealth  

VCU Health and Wellness Library, located in the Gateway Building, Group Floor, Room G-112 offers Meditate with Georgianne Ginder, MSC, CHWC, JSJ Certified Practioner every Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 pm. Free and open to all. For more information contact ricasatakj@vcu.edu or call 828-2432.

VCU's Institute for Contemporary Art offers mindfulness meditation sessions guided by highly experienced meditation teachers. These sessions are offered from 12 noon to 1 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. Sessions are free. To register, visit the ICA website and search "mindfulness." 

ConditionCare provided to VCU employees with Anthem. ConditionCare can help you get help managing asthma, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), hypertension, heart failure or coronary disease. You can talk to a nurse for help with health questions, anytime, anywhere. You get a health screening by phone at no extra cost. Get support from other health experts like pharmacists and dieticians. Other education guides, email newsletters and tools to learn more about your condition are provided. You can receive certain medications or supplies at no cost upon meeting certain requirements. Call 1-844-507-8472 to get started.

Anthem subscribers also have access to myStrength, the health club for your mind where you can get resources such as videos, articles, quotes, and inspirations as well as tools and exercises to help you develop a personal action plan and make healthy changes. To sign up go to anthemeap.com and enter Commonwealth of Virginia. Find the myStrength Center and choose the Sign-up button. Set up your account and unique password. Take the confidential wellness Assessment and fill out the personal profile. Both take just a few minutes to complete. Your answers will create your personal home page with topics and updates that interest and inspire you. Take myStrength with you on the go by downloading the i0S ir Android app.

Calm

Calm is providing some meditations, sleep stories, movement exercises, journals and music resources free to use and to share. In addition, they are offering VCU employees 40% off Calm Premium

One in five adults in the United States face a mental illness in any one year – that’s almost 44 million people. And especially right now, people across the country are experiencing feelings of stress and fear because of the new disease and feelings of isolation because of physical distancing requirements. This means someone around you right now may be struggling.

People who are facing mental health or addiction challenges may find it hard to seek and get the help they may need. They may not know who to talk to, where to go or even what to say.

Thankfully, there are a variety of things that can help, including having a good support system of people that you like, respect and trust. Support from loved ones, peers and appropriate professionals can make a big difference on your mental health and well-being. It can even make recovery from mental health symptoms easier and quicker.

Webinars on wellness (financial, health, and other topics) 

Did you know VCU faculty and staff have access to numerous financial webinars from Fidelity Investments, TIAA, Virginia Credit Union (VACU), Virginia Retirement System (VRS) and more! There are many live and on demand sessions including:

• Making gifts to loved one and charities
• Market Insights: New Developments, What to Consider, and Top Questions Answered
• Follow the 15% Rule
• Select How Your Savings are Invested
• Managing Debt during COVID-19
• Managing Holiday Finances

Also, VCU HR Work Life does monthly virtual live financial sessions. Check it all out on the VCU HR Work Life website.

Check out some upcoming webinars listed below! 

TIAA's Financial Essentials Live Webinars 

Register at TIAA.org/webinars. Below are some upcoming webinars. These webinars are open to everyone!

TIAA's upcoming live webinars topics:

Fidelity Webcast Hub

Practical conversations to help you live well financially, today and tomorrow – webinars from Fidelity

Now available:

• Market Insights: New Developments, What to Consider, and Top Questions Answered
• Your Retirement Transition: Go From Saving to Spending
• Make an Impact with Your Charitable Giving

And so many more on Preparing for Retirement, Managing Life, and Saving & Investing

Fidelity Investments – Well-being & You

Explore Ways to Manage your well Being through the COVID-19 Resource Center

• Money – Managing your finances
• Health – Maintaining physical and mental health
• Work – Staying productive at work
• Life – Adjusting how we live

Follow the 15% Rule:

• https://communications.fidelity.com/wi/2015/savingsandspendingcheckup/

Virginia Retirement System (VRS): 

Don’t let an unexpected expense catch you off-guard. Take the new myVRS Financial Wellness course, setting up an Emergency Fund, to learn how you can prepare for life’s financial surprises. You have access to an entire curriculum of financial wellness courses, articles, tools and more directly through your myVRS account. Visit showcase.varetire.org to learn how the financial knowledge you gain and the steps you take today help you build the future you imagine.

VRS DCP Online Regional Education Meetings

Register today for an online Commonwealth of Virginia 457 Deferred Compensation Plan Regional Education Meeting or a virtual one-on-one with your Defined Contribution Plans Retirement Specialists

Learn More About Your Retirement Options 

VRS 457 & Cash Match Plans Overview
What is a 457 Deferred Compensation Plan? How about a Cash Match 401(a) Plan? Learn about how these plans help you build your retirement future.

Register Now

Select How Your Savings Are Invested 

VRS Plan Investments
Do you find investing confusing? Learn about asset classes, diversification and the three investment paths available to you.

Register Now

How Do I Withdraw My Money in Retirement? 

VRS 457 & Cash Match Distribution Options
Retirement on the horizon? Understand the various distribution requirements and options under your 457 and 401(a) plans.

Register Now

Personal Individual Account Review 

One-on-one appointment
Need assistance? Sign up for a 30-minute virtual one-on-one with a Defined Contribution Plans Retirement Specialist.

Register Now