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  • Brightline supports you and your child as you prepare for the new school year and beyond!

    Brightline supports you and your child as you prepare for the new school year and beyond!

    Brightline supports you and your child as you prepare for the new school year and beyond!

    For back-to-school guides to navigating the
    relationship between AI bots and your child, visit our Healthy Minds page.

    Finding the right support for your child can be a challenging process for the whole family, especially during back-to-school season. Heading back to school can stir up all kinds of emotions. And with AI added into the mix, parents may feel they have even more to worry about. To support you, we’ve partnered with Brightline to make it easier for you to get an appointment if your child needs one. With Brightline, you have access to a dedicated team of therapists and psychologists. They have warm, welcoming pediatric mental health clinics in Brooklyn Heights, Columbus Circle (Manhattan), Lake Success (Long Island) and White Plains. They offer in-person treatment and specialty care for depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, autism and other behavioral challenges.

    Care begins with a thoughtful evaluation. Brightline works with parents or caregivers to create a care plan that fits each child’s needs and goals.

    Visit brightline.com or call (888) 255-1329 to make an appointment.

    Healthy Benefits
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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • Healthy living and healthy minds go hand in hand

    Healthy living and healthy minds go hand in hand

    Healthy living and healthy minds go hand in hand

    Online Healthy Minds Workshops

    If you or someone you love needs support, you’re not alone. We’ve partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI-NYC) for an interactive online Healthy Minds series. The series focuses on increasing awareness about mental wellness and provides resources and connections to help support your mental well-being in a safe space. Take a look at the schedule and descriptions below and register for a workshop today!

    Thursday, September 10, at 1:00 pm

    In Our Own Voices brings you inspiring personal stories from people who are living with mental illness and are willing to share what they’ve learned.

    Thursday, October 8, at 1:00 pm

    Mental Health 101 is an introductory course on how to recognize the signs of mental illness and find support for yourself or a loved one who needs it.

    Thursday, November 12, at 1:00 pm

    Family and Friends shares ways to support someone who is struggling—and will connect you with a community that understands what you’re going through.

    Thursday, December 10, at 1:00 pm

    In Our Own Voices brings you inspiring personal stories from people who are living with mental illness and are willing to share what they’ve learned.

    For more information, visit the NAMI-NYC page.

    Healthy Benefits
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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • Learn more about becoming a U.S. citizen with our webinar series

    Learn more about becoming a U.S. citizen with our webinar series

    Learn more about becoming a U.S. citizen with our webinar series

    Appointments are available
    Monday – Friday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

    Do you have questions about the process of becoming a U.S. citizen? The process can be daunting and complicated, but the 1199SEIU Citizenship Program is here to support you with our two-part webinar series. This series has been developed to assist 1199SEIU members, their spouses and their eligible dependent children. In Part A, you’ll learn about program eligibility, the naturalization and citizenship processes, and Green Card eligibility. In Part B, you’ll learn more about obtaining lawful permanent resident status, as well as how to prepare and file required forms.

    Each part is offered twice a month on Tuesdays at 5:00 pm. They are also available on demand in our Citizenship section.

    Have a legal question about immigration status?

    Support is available for 1199SEIU members and their eligible dependents through an outside attorney specializing in immigration law. Call (646) 473-8915 or email info@1199LegalAssistance.org for more information.

    For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the 1199SEIU Citizenship Program by calling (646) 473-8915, visiting our Citizenship page, or emailing 1199SEIUCitizenship.Program@1199Funds.org.

    The 1199SEIU Citizenship Program is jointly administered by the 1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds and the 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds.

    Healthy Benefits
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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • Retirement may be years away. Your security starts now.

    Retirement may be years away. Your security starts now.

    Retirement may be years away. Your security starts now.

    What advice would I give my younger self?

    I’d tell myself that having an 1199 pension means you have the promise of an independent future. I just retired, I’m secure and I’m smiling!

    Victoria Carter

    It may be difficult to imagine where you’ll be in 10, 15 or 20 years, but as an 1199SEIU member, you have the security of a defined benefit pension. This is a rare benefit, and it may be hard to appreciate what it means when you’re years away from retirement. But a defined monthly pension offers financial security, peace of mind and freedom when it’s time to retire.

    As an 1199SEIU member, you can request a pension estimate every year to track how your benefit is growing. It’s easy to do. Learning more about your pension today ensures you’ll have more freedom tomorrow. And if you’ll be ready for retirement in the near future, now is the time to figure out what your 1199SEIU pension means for you!

    For more information, check out the retirement page.

    How to get your pension estimate

    Log into MyAccount. Once you’re logged in, go to the “My Pension” tab and choose “Request & Review Pension Estimate” from the dropdown menu. Then, click the “Request Pension Estimate” button and follow the on-screen instructions. That’s all there is to it.

    Remember, this is only an estimate—it’s not your final benefit. Please contact the Pension Department if you believe there is missing wage and/or employment history when you review your information.

    Ready to retire?

    Meet your Pension Counselor

    You can meet with a Pension Counselor in person, online or by phone.

    To learn more, visit the virtual pension counselor page or call (646) 473-8666.

    Apply for your pension

    Your Pension Counselor can help you complete your pension application, or you can do it online at your convenience through MyAccount.

    Looking for more pension information? Visit our pension counseling page to register for an online Pension Benefit Information Session, where you’ll be able to have your questions answered!

    Healthy Benefits
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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • How to take charge of your finances

    How to take charge of your finances

    How to take charge of your finances

    Eliminate the guesswork by attending one of our upcoming online financial workshops.

    Banking Basics

    Wednesday, October 21, at 6:00 pm

    In this webinar, you’ll learn how to bank safely, open accounts, monitor fees and make transactions.

    Understanding Your Paycheck

    Wednesday, November 18, at 6:00 pm

    In this webinar, you’ll learn about payroll and tax deductions, Social Security, Medicare, FICA and more.

    How Credit Works

    Wednesday, December 9, at 6:00 pm

    Understand how to use credit, credit reporting and the impact of credit scores.

    For more information or to register, visit our Healthy Finances page.

    Healthy Benefits
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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • Training and Employment Funds’ Class of 2026: Celebrating Generations of Graduates

    Training and Employment Funds’ Class of 2026: Celebrating Generations of Graduates

    Training and Employment Funds’ Class of 2026: Celebrating Generations of Graduates

    The 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds (TEF) recently celebrated this year’s class of graduates across multiple ceremonies, honoring the milestones members achieved and TEF’s longstanding partnerships with institutions that make those milestones possible.

    10 Years and Growing Stronger: TEF’s Partnership with Monroe University

    Radio City Music Hall, June 11, 2026

    TEF has partnered with Monroe University for a decade, proudly helping 1199SEIU members earn degrees from the School of Allied Health Professions. In 2026, this partnership reached a new milestone with the largest graduating class yet: 122 members who are ready to advance their healthcare careers.

    Monroe University is recognized nationwide as a leader in educating first-generation students, consistently ranking among New York’s top institutions for graduating Black and Latino students and improving its graduates’ social mobility, with a diverse campus community representing 93 countries and 43 languages.

    This year’s Monroe University graduation ceremony took place on June 11, with a joyful celebration at Radio City Music Hall.

    Unfinished Degrees to Master’s-bound Graduates with HC4

    The Health Careers College Core Curriculum (HC4) Program is one of TEF’s pathways to higher education, operating through direct partnerships with Monroe University, the College of Staten Island and Lehman College.

    HC4 students, many of whom have been out of school for years, take 12 to 36 college core credits within their own cohort to rebuild the academic habits and time-management skills that school demands. After completing the program, members continue into their major either at their current college or another institution to earn higher-education credentials.

    Chrystol Albert-Hope, a Medical Case Manager at the Community Healthcare Network, graduated from Monroe University with a Bachelor of Science in Community Health and Wellness. Her path to that degree began with the HC4 Program. After dropping out at 17 as a single mother, Chrystol returned to school years later and began taking college core credits to advance her career.

    The American school system is completely different from what I knew growing up in Guyana. Starting college here felt like learning to creep and run at the same time, but then the HC4 Program came in. I started with four core subjects, and it gave me a feel for what college life was going to be like. It set the platform for my success. It taught me to plan ahead. To commit. To stay focused even when I was exhausted.

    Chrystol Albert-Hope,
    Monroe University Graduate, Class of 2026

    To learn more about the HC4 Program, please email HC4Information@1199Funds.org.

    Downstate Recognition Ceremony Brings Together Graduates and Leaders

    Chrystol Albert-Hope at the New York Marriot Marquis Hotel on June 25, 2026

    As a recent graduate, Chrystol Albert-Hope was invited to speak at TEF’s Downstate Recognition Ceremony on June 25, 2026. In her speech, Chrystol reflected on her journey alongside her son, who was pursuing two master’s degrees at the University of the West Indies in Jamaica while she was in school. She said, “When I was in school, so was my son, whom I had at the age of 17. He came to my graduation, and said, ‘Mom, the bachelor’s has become the norm—like finishing high school. The master’s is the real thing.’ Then he added, ‘So, in September, I’m going for my master’s degree in public health: epidemiology.’ He wins.”

    Other guest speakers included Career Pathways Training (CPT) Program participants Joseph Long, who graduated from the Helene Fuld College of Nursing with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing, and Bob Ssendagire, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Mount Saint Vincent.

    Mayor Mamdani: TEF graduates embody the city’s “relentless ambition and drive.”

    Mayor Zohran Mamdani at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 25, 2026

    New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani delivered the keynote speech at TEF’s Downstate Recognition Ceremony. He emphasized how much the achievements of 1199SEIU members matter to the city, acknowledging the barriers that members faced to reach that evening: “In this room, I see the relentless ambition and drive that defines so much of our city, the many challenges you had to overcome just to get to this evening. More than 2,500 of you immigrated here from another country. More than 1,600 of you speak multiple languages. And many of you are working parents. You are looking after an aging family member. You’re caring for a neighbor who needs help. When you provide solace and comfort, you do so not only because it’s a job but it’s also a purpose.”

    Personal Care Attendants Honored for Professional Development Completion

    Quincy, Massachusetts

    “You are the backbone of the disability community.” Dianna Hu

    Personal Care Attendants (PCAs) are part of the fabric of the everyday lives of their clients. Helping them bathe, dress and groom; safely transferring them out of bed to walking or wheelchairs; and ensuring they are nourished and living in a sanitary environment.

    TEF’s Workplace Partnerships and Occupational Certifications Programs train certified healthcare workers and successfully transition them into the workforce, including PCAs and Home Health Aides. On April 15, 2026, the Massachusetts Recognition Ceremony honored 1199SEIU members who completed the PCA Professional Development Program, proudly celebrating them with a congratulatory video by Dianna Hu, PCA Consumer Employer and Chairperson for the Boston Center for Independent Living’s Board of Trustees.

    As a person with a disability herself, Hu said, “When you exercise the needed body mechanics for a complex transfer, we feel safe. When you spot a medical spot before it becomes a trip to an ER, we feel safe, and when you lift a voice of disability justice alongside us, that is the absolute safest we can feel.”

    TEF remains committed to opening doors to education, career advancement and more prosperous lives for healthcare workers across the regions we serve.

    For more information about occupational certifications, make an appointment on MyTEF.

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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • FALC Celebrates Pre-K Children’s Big Dreams and Bright Futures

    FALC Celebrates Pre-K Children’s Big Dreams and Bright Futures

    FALC Celebrates Pre-K Children’s Big Dreams and Bright Futures

    On June 18, 2026, the Future of America Learning Center (FALC) proudly celebrated its Pre-K Culmination, honoring the children from UPK 1, UPK 2 and UPK 3 as they prepared to take the next big step into kindergarten.

    Held in the gymnasium of FALC’s neighborhood school partner, PS 246, the event brought together families, teachers, friends and 1199SEIU Child Care Funds staff for a joyful and memorable celebration.

    The ceremony was filled with laughter, pride and a few happy tears as teachers and parent representatives shared heartfelt memories, words of gratitude and hopes for the children’s futures. The young graduates delighted the audience with songs, dances and performances, and proudly shared their dreams with declarations of their career goals of “When I grow up, I want to be…”

    Throughout the celebration, the children demonstrated the confidence, responsibility and resilience they developed during their time at FALC.

    They cheered for one another, offered encouragement and lent helping hands to classmates who needed support in order to speak in front of an audience.

    Watching them showcase the Self-discipline, Trustworthiness, Accounting for one’s words and actions, and Respect and responsibility (STAR) qualities they have learned, along with their strong sense of friendship and teamwork, was a touching reminder of how much they have grown.

    It was a proud and inspiring milestone for the children, their families and the entire FALC community.

    Healthy Benefits
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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • 1199SEIU Child Care Corporation’s Joseph Tauber Scholarship Program Honors the Class of 2026

    1199SEIU Child Care Corporation’s Joseph Tauber Scholarship Program Honors the Class of 2026

    1199SEIU Child Care Corporation’s Joseph Tauber Scholarship Program Honors the Class of 2026

    The Joseph Tauber Scholarship Program (JTSP) proudly celebrated the accomplishments of its graduating scholarship recipients through two signature events that recognized the hard work, perseverance and academic excellence of students completing their undergraduate degrees.

    In May, JTSP staff traveled to the University at Albany to attend the 2026 Commencement Ceremony, where they celebrated members’ children reaching this important milestone. Meeting students and their families on graduation day provided an opportunity to honor the support that 1199SEIU families provide their children throughout their education journeys.

    Following commencement season, JTSP hosted its Third Annual Graduation Photo Studio, welcoming scholarship recipients who graduated in 2026 to commemorate their achievement with professional portraits. The event offered graduates a personalized photo experience in a celebratory setting, allowing students to capture lasting memories as they marked the completion of their undergraduate education.

    The annual Photo Studio has become a tradition that reflects JTSP’s commitment to celebrating students beyond the scholarship award itself. Professional graduation portraits provide graduates and their families with keepsakes that commemorate years of hard work, while recognizing the significant milestone of earning a college degree.

    JTSP provides financial assistance to eligible undergraduate students who are dependents of 1199SEIU members, helping families reduce the financial burden of higher education. Beyond scholarship awards, the program supports students throughout their academic journey by providing educational resources, financial literacy information, FAFSA assistance and opportunities that encourage student success from application through graduation.

    Each year, JTSP proudly recognizes hundreds of scholarship recipients pursuing degrees across colleges and universities throughout the country. This year, JTSP celebrated more than 400 graduates. Celebrating graduates through commencement visits and the annual Photo Studio reflects the program’s ongoing commitment to supporting students not only financially but also by acknowledging their achievements and the dedication required to reach this important milestone.

    As the Class of 2026 begins the next chapter of their education and professional journeys, JTSP congratulates each graduate and looks forward to continuing its tradition of celebrating the success of 1199SEIU families.

    For more information about JTSP, please visit our Joseph Tauber Scholarship page.

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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • Message from Donna Rey, Executive Director

    Message from Donna Rey, Executive Director

    Message from Donna Rey, Executive Director

    Dear Retired Members,

    I always look forward to the summer months. The longer days, warmer weather and extra time outdoors give us a wonderful opportunity to reconnect—with our families, our friends, our communities and ourselves. It is a season that reminds me how important it is to stay connected, stay active and make the most of the support we have around us.

    That spirit of connection and support was on my mind recently when I had the privilege of sitting in on the contract negotiations between the Union and the League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes of New York. I was pleased to see the Union’s commitment as they secured a 4 percent retiree bonus check, payable in 2026.

    We share that same commitment to supporting you here at the Benefit Funds. Choosing a healthy lifestyle is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves at every age. That’s why I’m especially proud of our Healthy Living Resource Center. It brings together practical tools, trusted information and easy-to-use resources to help you take charge of your health in ways that fit your life. Visit the Healthy Living Resource Center to see what’s available.

    I also encourage you to listen to our Health Is the Key podcast. Each episode features conversations with experts who share useful information and real-life guidance on topics that matter to you and your family. Visit Health Is the Key to listen to an episode.

    As you make the most of this beautiful season, I hope you’ll take time for your health and for the things you enjoy. You’ve given so much, and you continue to be a vital part of our 1199SEIU family. Your strength, spirit and dedication are truly an inspiration. I wish you a safe, healthy and joyful rest of the summer.

    In good health,

    Donna Rey, EdD

    Estimados miembros jubilados:

    Siempre espero con entusiasmo los meses de verano. Los días más largos, el clima más cálido y el tiempo adicional al aire libre nos brindan una maravillosa oportunidad para reconectarnos: con nuestras familias, nuestros amigos, nuestras comunidades y con nosotros mismos. Es una temporada que me recuerda lo importante que es mantenernos conectados, activos y aprovechar al máximo el apoyo que tenemos a nuestro alrededor.

    Ese espíritu de conexión y apoyo estuvo muy presente para mí recientemente, cuando tuve el privilegio de estar presente durante las negociaciones contractuales entre el Sindicato y la League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes. Me complació ver el compromiso del Sindicato al lograr un cheque de bonificación para jubilados del 4 por ciento, pagadero en 2026.

    Compartimos ese mismo compromiso de apoyarlos aquí en los Fondos de Beneficios. Elegir un estilo de vida saludable es uno de los mejores regalos que podemos darnos a cualquier edad. Por eso me enorgullece especialmente nuestro Centro de Recursos para una Vida Saludable. Reúne herramientas prácticas, información confiable y recursos fáciles de usar para ayudarle a tomar el control de su salud de maneras que se adapten a su vida. Visite Healthy Living Resource Center para ver lo que está disponible.

    También lo animo a escuchar nuestro podcast Health Is the Key. Cada episodio presenta conversaciones con expertos que comparten información útil y orientación de la vida real sobre temas importantes para usted y su familia. Visite Health Is the Key para escuchar un episodio.

    Mientras aprovecha al máximo esta hermosa temporada, espero que se tome tiempo para su salud y para las cosas que disfruta. Usted ha dado tanto y sigue siendo una parte vital de nuestra familia 1199SEIU. Su fortaleza, espíritu y dedicación son verdaderamente una inspiración. Les deseo que disfruten de lo que resta del verano con seguridad, salud y alegría.

    Con buena salud,

    Donna Rey, doctora en Educación

    Connections News
    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • President Mary Stovall-Merrill’s Message

    President Mary Stovall-Merrill’s Message

    President Mary Stovall-Merrill’s Message

    Merrill

    Dear Sisters and Brothers,

    It’s hard to believe that the fall season is right around the corner. I hope you have been enjoying the summer, filled with connections, activities and new adventures. With more than half the year over, it can feel like you’re running behind schedule. But you’re right where you’re supposed to be. Healthy living is a marathon, or better yet, a triathlon made up of multiple components to navigate all at once. But don’t look at it like a race; view it instead as a series of opportunities to improve your well-being. There is no time limit, but the more training you put in, the better the outcome.

    You can manage your physical, mental and emotional health while barely breaking a sweat. The key is to break everything into small steps and reassess your plans based on where you’re at, without judgment. Sure, we’d love to maybe be further along the path, but the fact is we’re still moving.

    So, what are some small steps you can take today? How about a walk around the block, calling to make an appointment to see your doctor or having dinner with that friend you haven’t seen in a while? Right there you just checked off three boxes.

    With so much going on in the world around us, building and remaining connected to our communities is more important than ever. Spending time having fun with family, friends and neighbors helps you have a social network and stay connected to those around you. Getting involved in your local communities by volunteering your time and exploring new interests is another way to stay engaged and keep your mind active. The Retired Members Department has many ways you can get involved and stay connected in your communities—through online and in-person local chapter meetings, a wide range of classes and activities, and even on social media!

    As always, I am continually uplifted by our retiree community, and I encourage you to stay hopeful, engaged and encouraged. If you ever need support or resources, call (646) 473-8666 (or (877) 369-8340 outside of New York City).

    In solidarity,

    Mary Stovall-Merrill

    Queridos hermanos y hermanas:

    Es difícil creer que la temporada de otoño ya está a la vuelta de la esquina. Espero que hayan disfrutado del verano, lleno de conexiones, actividades y nuevas aventuras. Ahora que ya pasó más de la mitad del año, puede parecer que se están quedando atrás. Pero están exactamente donde deben estar. Vivir de manera saludable es un maratón o, mejor dicho, un triatlón compuesto por varios componentes que debemos manejar al mismo tiempo. Pero no lo vean como una carrera; véanlo más bien como una serie de oportunidades para mejorar su bienestar. No hay límite de tiempo, pero en cuanto más se preparen, mejores serán los resultados.

    Pueden cuidar su salud física, mental y emocional sin tener que esforzarse demasiado. La clave es dividir todo en pequeños pasos y reevaluar sus planes según dónde se encuentren, sin juzgarse. Claro, quizás nos gustaría estar un poco más avanzados en el camino, pero la realidad es que ustedes siguen avanzando.

    Entonces, ¿qué pequeños pasos pueden tomar hoy? ¿Qué tal caminar alrededor de la cuadra, llamar para hacer una cita con su médico o cenar con ese amigo o amiga a quien no han visto en mucho tiempo? Con eso, ya habrán marcado tres cosas de su lista.

    Con tantas cosas sucediendo en el mundo que nos rodea, crear y mantener vínculos con nuestras comunidades es más importante que nunca. Pasar tiempo divirtiéndose con familiares, amistades y vecinos les ayuda a contar con una red social y a mantenerse conectados con las personas a su alrededor. Participar en sus comunidades locales ofreciendo su tiempo como voluntarios y explorando nuevos intereses es otra manera de mantenerse activos y mantener la mente ocupada. El Departamento de Miembros Jubilados ofrece muchas maneras de participar y mantenerse conectados en sus comunidades: a través de reuniones de capítulos locales en línea y en persona, una amplia variedad de clases y actividades, ¡e incluso en las redes sociales!

    Como siempre, nuestra comunidad de jubilados me inspira profundamente, y los animo a mantenerse esperanzados, activos y motivados. Si alguna vez necesitan apoyo o recursos, llamen al (646) 473-8666 (o al (877) 369-8340 si están fuera de la ciudad de Nueva York).

    En solidaridad,

    Mary Stovall-Merrill

    Connections News
    1199SEIU Family of Funds