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  • Future of America Learning Center (FALC) Program Highlights

    Future of America Learning Center (FALC) Program Highlights

    CONTACT US
    (212) 564-2220
    ChildCare@1199Funds.org

    Future of America Learning Center (FALC) Program Highlights

    Future of America Learning Center (FALC) Program Highlights

    ST(R)EAM SCIENCE FAIR

    FALC hosted its 29th Annual Science Fair, with the theme “How Do We Travel? Exploring Movement and Pathways!” Students showcased hands-on projects in science, technology, reading, engineering, arts and math—ST(R)EAM—that reflected critical thinking, creativity and collaborative learning.

    WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD

    In April, children participated in activities celebrating early learning, including arts, music, cooking and small group projects. The week also featured the Scholastic Book Fair and Spring Picture Day.

    CAREER EXPLORATION & PRE-K CULMINATION

    Guided by the theme “When I Grow Up, I Want to Be…” Pre-K students explored different professions through classroom activities, family engagement and visits from community helpers. The experience culminated in a celebration where students proudly shared their future aspirations.

    Future of America Learning Center (FALC) Program Highlights

    FAMILY ENGAGEMENT

    FALC hosted workshops on topics such as early literacy, behavior management and child development, along with community-building events, including Parent Child Yoga and Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations.

    OLYMPIC/FIELD DAY

    Students and families came together for the annual Olympic/Field Day at PS 246, participating in relay races and obstacle courses that promoted teamwork, movement and fun.

  • Students Get Hands-on Work Experience with WorkForce

    Students Get Hands-on Work Experience with WorkForce

    CONTACT US
    (212) 564-2220
    ChildCare@1199Funds.org

    Students Get Hands-on Work Experience with WorkForce

    Students Get Hands-on Work Experience with WorkForce

    WorkForce (WF2), in partnership with New York City’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), provides 1199SEIU youth with paid summer work experiences that combine academic enrichment, career exploration and hands-on learning. Last summer, 84 students participated in SYEP, gaining real-world experience at virtual and in-person worksites. Students engaged in college readiness sessions with SUNY and CUNY representatives, participated in community service initiatives and explored career pathways in healthcare.

    Through the Pre-RN track, students visited hospital settings, including Brookdale Hospital Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital, where they observed clinical environments and simulation labs. Participants also presented on a range of health topics as their culmination project, building confidence and public speaking skills.

    Beyond the classroom, students strengthened peer connections through group outings and enrichment activities, creating a well-rounded experience that supported both academic and personal growth.

  • Youth Mentoring and Teen Programs Prepare Children for Academic Success

    Youth Mentoring and Teen Programs Prepare Children for Academic Success

    CONTACT US
    (212) 564-2220
    ChildCare@1199Funds.org

    Youth Mentoring and Teen Programs Prepare Children for Academic Success

    Youth Mentoring and Teen Programs Prepare Children for Academic Success

    The Youth Mentoring Program (YMP) engaged 178 youth in a six-week summer experience, providing hands-on work opportunities in healthcare settings across New York City. Participants developed professional skills, explored career pathways and presented projects on topics such as mental health, social media and healthy living.

    YMP also supported continued growth through the Education Extension Project, in which alumni participated in advanced career and financial planning activities.

    Academic preparation programs remained strong, with 39 students in SHSAT Prep and 173 students in SAT Prep. Students strengthened test-taking skills, participated in workshops and saw an average score increase of 72 points, with a high score of 1440.

    The program’s closing ceremony featured special guest Congresswoman Yvette Clarke of Brooklyn, who highlighted the program’s long-standing impact on youth development.

    SHSAT has had approximately 13 students land seats (offers) at the following specialized high schools:

    • Stuyvesant High School
    • The Bronx High School of Science
    • Brooklyn Technical High School
    • Staten Island Technical High School
    • The Brooklyn Latin School
  • Health Careers College Core Curriculum Program Provides Support to Begin Your College Journey

    Health Careers College Core Curriculum Program Provides Support to Begin Your College Journey

    Health Careers College Core Curriculum Program Provides Support to Begin Your College Journey

    Throughout more than two decades at the 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds (TEF), Adrienne Simmons has spent her career walking alongside students at some of their most pivotal educational turning points.

    For 17 years, she managed TEF’s High School Equivalency program, helping members earn their New York State high school equivalency diplomas and encouraging them to continue on the path toward higher education.

    Today, Adrienne’s work focuses on the next step of that journey. As Program Manager for the Health Careers College Core Curriculum (HC4) Program, she supports students as they step fully onto their college pathway.

    “It feels like a full-circle moment,” Adrienne said. “For years, I was telling students, ‘Keep going, don’t stop here.’ Now I get to support them once they’ve done exactly that.”

    The HC4 Program is designed to help 1199SEIU members complete core requirements, typically 12 to 36 credits, toward a college degree. It provides a structured, supportive entry into college while helping students build the academic habits needed for long-term success.

    It feels like a full-circle moment. For years, I was telling students, ‘Keep going, don’t stop here.’ Now I get to support them once they’ve done exactly that.

    “After covering core requirements, students say, ‘I got this. I’m ready to take more classes,’” Adrienne said.

    Students are enrolled through one of three partner institutions—College of Staten Island, Lehman College, or Monroe University—and move through the program as a cohort. Most classes are online and meet twice a week, allowing working adults to balance school, work and life responsibilities.

    For Adrienne, what stands out is persistence. “I continue to say keep going,” she said. “After the HC4 Program, you already learned time management, you already know what is expected of you in college. Just keep going.”

    If you’re interested in the HC4 Program and want to learn more about it, please reach out to a designated TEF contact below.

    College of Staten Island Inquiries

    Lekwan Robinson,
    Counselor II,
    College Programs
    (212) 284-9239, ext.1239

    Lehman College Inquiries

    Francine Nawej,
    Counselor I,
    College Programs
    (212) 494-0588

    Monroe University Inquiries

    Adrienne Simmons,
    Program Manager,
    College Programs
    (212) 894-4362, ext.1362

    For more information, please visit www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/hc4.

    After covering core requirements, students say, ‘I got this. I’m ready to take more classes.’

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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • Child Care Funds’ Holiday Sleep-Away Programs Earn High Praise from Members

    Child Care Funds’ Holiday Sleep-Away Programs Earn High Praise from Members

    Child Care Funds’ Holiday Sleep-Away Programs Earn High Praise from Members

    Many parents need child care when their children are on holiday break from school in February and April. During this break, the 1199SEIU Child Care Funds (CCF) Holiday Sleep-Away Programs provide a fun and educational experience for all participants. Children are encouraged to make new friends and are supported through personal growth in an enriching and safe environment.

    The Holiday Sleep-Away Programs are scheduled according to the New York City public school calendar. There is a Winter Session in February and a Spring Session in April. Both are operated by Hands In 4 Youth, the home of Camp Vacamas, in West Milford, New Jersey.

    This year, CCF held the Winter Session of the Holiday Sleep-Away Program (HSAP) from February 16 to February 20 for children ages 8 to 13. The Teen Holiday Sleep-Away Program (T-HSAP) was held from February 14 to February 20 for teens ages 14 to 17. A total of 79 children attended HSAP, and 47 teenagers attended T-HSAP. At the time this magazine went to press, the counts from the Spring Sessions hadn’t been tallied.

    Participants in the Winter Session took part in activities ranging from team sports, robotics, games, and arts and crafts to nature exploration and big brother/big sister mentorships between T-HSAP and HSAP campers.

    In a satisfaction survey of 1199SEIU members whose children participated, 91 percent said their child liked or loved their camp experience, 95 percent said the program had a positive impact on their child, and 91 percent said they are likely or extremely likely to apply again.

    For more information, visit our Holiday Sleep-Away Programs page or email HSAP@1199Funds.org.

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  • 1199SEIU Child Care Funds’ Future of America Learning Center (FALC) Celebrates 30th Annual Science Fair

    1199SEIU Child Care Funds’ Future of America Learning Center (FALC) Celebrates 30th Annual Science Fair

    1199SEIU Child Care Funds’ Future of America Learning Center (FALC) Celebrates 30th Annual Science Fair

    This year’s science fair centered around the theme “How Do Containers and Simple Machines Help Us in Our Daily Lives?” reflecting the Creative Curriculum studies explored and celebrated by the Preschool, 3K and Pre-K classes. The young FALC scholars, ages 2 to 5, embarked on an exciting scientific journey as they explored the impact of containers and simple machines on everyday life in the world around them.

    Throughout the study, students were encouraged to explore the theme creatively and make meaningful, real-life connections through hands-on, sensory experiences. Their discoveries touched on sustainability, current events, technology and inventions, related professions and health concepts. Investigations took place in their classrooms in FALC’s on-site STREAM Lab. (STREAM stands for Science, Technology, Relationships, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics.)

    Each year, the science fair experience provides children with meaningful opportunities to collaborate with classmates, teachers and families through STREAM-based projects and exhibits. Students engage in hands-on experiments, test hypotheses, develop critical and analytical thinking skills, and proudly present their findings.

    FALC takes pride in being a high-functioning program committed to inspiring transformative learning and positive change. FALC’s annual science fair is a cornerstone of its curriculum and family-engagement efforts, emphasizing the quality of the learning process and meaningful interactions rather than the final product. The experience reflects its philosophy of “Being the change we wish to see.”

    FALC provides affordable, high-quality early education and child care for working families in the Bronx. Using a hands-on, play-based approach, the program supports children’s development while fostering creativity, confidence and a love of learning.

    For more information about FALC, please visit the FALC page.

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    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • WF2 Students Gear Up for Summer Jobs with SYEP

    WF2 Students Gear Up for Summer Jobs with SYEP

    WF2 Students Gear Up for Summer Jobs with SYEP

    Recently, WorkForce (WF2) hosted two preparation and training sessions for students applying to the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), drawing more than 60 participants.

    During the sessions, staff worked with students to hone skills that would prepare them for their summer jobs. Some highlights:

    • Students wrapped up outstanding paperwork needed to move forward in the SYEP process.
    • Staff counseled students on how to dress professionally in the workplace­—and what to avoid.
    • Students practiced their skills through mock interviews with potential worksites, helping them build confidence.
    • Staff reviewed the direct deposit sign-up process with students so that they would be ready when employment begins.

    The 1199SEIU Child Care Corporation partners with the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) to provide this opportunity to eligible WF2 participants through SYEP. During a virtual DYCD meeting, DYCD program manager Adam Zaman commended the WF2 team, praising their strong work and thoughtful preparation.

    Through SYEP, a select group of eligible WF2 participants will earn paid summer employment for six weeks, from July through August. The experience continues with Saturday academic classes running from September through June—helping students stay supported, engaged and on track for success.

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  • 1199ers: Where are they now?

    1199ers: Where are they now?

    1199ers: Where are they now?

    Medona Porter, Clinical Nurse Leader, Jamaica Hospital-Queens

    A lot has happened for Medona Porter since her January 2024 Members’ Voices video aired. Her story inspired people in her community to invite her to speak at local schools and churches. “My participation opened a lot of doors for me to help make a difference,” she said. One of the biggest changes happened at home. Medona made a real impact on her father’s health. In her video, she talked about helping him manage his diabetes—and that dedication paid off. His A1C levels have improved so much that he no longer needs medication. And she’s got a new role at work. After earning her MBA in Healthcare Management—with help from her 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds benefit—Medona is now a Clinical Nurse Leader. Congratulations, Medona!

    Sofia Espinoza, Residential Hospice Aide, Staten Island University Hospital-Northwell Health

    Sofia Espinoza was featured in the Spring 2024 edition of For Your Benefit magazine, making her something of a celebrity at work. Her co-workers proudly displayed the magazine, and even her supervisor called to congratulate her. “I was very honored,” she said. Since then, Sofia was thrilled when offered the opportunity to test-drive a new position as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA), working alongside doctors and nurses. She realized that her role as a Residential Hospice Aide is her true calling, though, and was happy to return to her department and co-workers. Sofia also stayed committed to her health journey—controlling her diabetes and cholesterol through healthy eating and taking her medication as prescribed. Keep up the good work, Sofia!

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  • Featured Member: Pedro Bosque

    Featured Member: Pedro Bosque

    Pedro Bosque

    Dietary Department Porter, Sodexo

    WHY

    A lifelong commitment to healthy living keeps Pedro Bosque energized, positive and ready for whatever comes next.

    Being proactive about his health has always just been part of who Pedro Bosque is. He grew up in Puerto Rico, and as a teenager, he and his friends watched the Arnold Schwarzenegger movie Pumping Iron. The movie inspired Pedro and, unlike his friends, he began a health routine that he still follows today. “Everyone else said they would too. But I was the one who stuck with it,” he said. “Now, all these years later, I have no health conditions. I’m not a bodybuilder, but because of healthy living, I’m in better shape than a lot of people I know who are much younger than me.”

    When Pedro first started working out, he realized pretty quickly that he genuinely enjoyed it. So, when he moved to New York, he brought that routine right along with him. These days, he exercises five days a week. Four of those days, he heads to a nearby gym after work to lift weights and then walks the 30 minutes it takes to get home. Once a week, he skips the gym and goes straight home to focus on aerobic exercises instead.

    Pedro likes to make sure he hits every muscle group, so he works on two body parts a day. That way, he covers everything from head to toe. He saves weekends for rest, so he can stay energized during the week. And he’s excited to check out the Benefit Funds’ YouTube channel as a new source of inspiration. “Even though I’ve been exercising for a long time, I’m always looking for videos online to motivate me,” he said.

    Listen to Pedro’s story.

    Pedro recently turned 64, and he’s spent an impressive 43 years working as a Dietary Department Porter with Sodexo-SUNY Downstate. He’s proud to help provide meals for hospital patients and staff, and he’s just as committed to paying attention to what he eats. He loves protein shakes and enjoys steaming chicken or fish—especially tuna and salmon—with his girlfriend of 21 years, Rebena.

    Many of Pedro’s relatives have struggled with obesity, so he made it a priority early on to stay in control of his eating habits. Still, he’s not overly strict. “On the weekends, maybe I’ll have a slice of pizza or a burrito,” he said. “But then it’s right back to healthy eating!”

    He likes to stay informed about nutrition, so he reads as much as he can about what foods to choose and what to skip. He also keeps track of his calories and brings homemade meals to work to help him stick to his plan. “It’s a small sacrifice,” he said. “I’m 145 pounds, and I want to keep it that way.”

    That’s why Pedro is such a big fan of the Benefit Funds’ Healthy Living Resource Center. “Being healthy makes me feel young,” he said. “Once I got started, it just became a part of my routine. I encourage my fellow members to check it out and try it too. You don’t have to be extreme—even 30 minutes of exercise a day instead of watching TV, plus some healthy eating, can make a big difference.”

    “I’m not a bodybuilder, but because of healthy living, I’m in better shape than a lot of people I know who are much younger than me.”

    Because of the lifestyle he’s built, Pedro can keep enjoying the things he loves, now and when he eventually retires and starts making the most of his 1199SEIU pension benefit. He’s also grateful to have the energy to support his girlfriend, Rebena, who’s a recent cancer survivor. “We have fun just walking around and traveling,” he said. “And when I’m here for her, I can help make sure she stays in remission. We don’t have to go far, but we always have a good time together.”

    In the meantime, Pedro loves getting out on the water at Liberty State Park in New Jersey when the weather’s warm. He also enjoys riding his bike, which he says does wonders for his mental health. “Riding my bike relaxes my mind,” he said. “I play some music on my headphones and go. And now that it’s spring and the weather is nice again, I can’t wait to get out there. Healthy living—that’s what it’s all about!”

    Healthy Benefits
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    Member Profiles

    Merlene Hardy

    Diana Suárez

    Yolanda Acevedo

    Melissa Spells

    Sofia Espinoza

    Sharese Welch

    Tykar Williams

    Malikah Weston

    1199SEIU Family of Funds
  • Message from the Executive Director

    Message from the Executive Director

    Message from the Executive Director

    Dear Retired Members,

    As we welcome the arrival of spring, I can’t help but celebrate the energy and beauty that this season brings. I love the warmer weather and after months of cold days, spring encourages us to step outside and embrace the sense of renewal found in the longer stretches of daylight and budding landscapes. It’s a perfect moment to refocus on the practices that help us live well—staying active, nurturing healthy habits and engaging in the activities that bring us joy.

    As retired 1199SEIU members, you are part of a remarkable community built on decades of service, dedication and strength. Here at the Benefit Funds, we strive to bring you meaningful support as you continue on your health journey. We offer a variety of in-person and online classes to inspire you, connect you with one another and improve your mental and physical well-being. Come to one of our in-person chapter meetings or participate via Zoom if you prefer to join from home.

    Please take a moment to look at the three-month class, event and chapter meeting schedule inside. You can also visit the Retiree Events page. Through shared interests, conversations and the joy of familiar faces, your participation strengthens the ties that make our membership so meaningful.

    Finally, I’m excited to share that season three of our Health Is the Key podcast is in full swing, and we’ve hit a major milestone with 50K streams! Tune in to get the latest information from leading medical experts, mental health professionals and other health industry leaders. You can listen to our most recent episode, plus all our previous episodes by visiting Health Is The Key. We have a fantastic lineup of guests this season, so subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

    As we enter this vibrant season, I hope you feel refreshed, motivated and ready for the possibilities ahead. Together, let’s continue to support one another on our journey toward lasting well-being.

    In good health,

    Donna Rey, EdD

    Estimados miembros jubilados:

    Al darle la bienvenida a la llegada de la primavera, no puedo evitar celebrar la energía y la belleza que trae esta temporada. Me encanta el clima más cálido después de meses de días fríos la primavera nos anima a salir y a abrazar la sensación de renovación que se encuentra en las horas más largas de luz natural y en los paisajes que comienzan a florecer. Es el momento perfecto para volver a enfocarnos en las prácticas que nos ayudan a vivir bien: mantenernos activos, fomentar hábitos saludables y participar en las actividades que nos brindan alegría.

    Como miembros jubilados del 1199SEIU, ustedes forman parte de una comunidad extraordinaria, construida sobre décadas de servicio, dedicación y fortaleza. Aquí, en los Fondos de Beneficios, nos esforzamos por brindarles un apoyo significativo mientras continúan su camino hacia una mejor salud. Ofrecemos una variedad de clases presenciales y en línea para inspirarlos, conectarlos entre sí y mejorar su bienestar mental y físico. Los invitamos a asistir a una de nuestras reuniones presenciales de capítulo o a participar por Zoom si prefieren unirse desde casa.

    Por favor, dediquen un momento a revisar el calendario de clases, eventos y reuniones de capítulo de los próximos tres meses incluido en esta publicación. También pueden visitar la página de Retiree Events.

    A través de intereses compartidos, conversaciones y la alegría de ver rostros conocidos, su participación fortalece los lazos que hacen que nuestra membresía sea tan significativa. Por último, me complace compartir que la tercera temporada de nuestro pódcast Health Is the Key está en pleno desarrollo y que hemos alcanzado un exito importante con 50,000 reproducciones. Acompáñenos para obtener la información más reciente de destacados expertos médicos, profesionales de la salud mental y otros líderes del sector de la salud. Pueden escuchar nuestro episodio más reciente, así como todos los episodios anteriores, visitando Health Is The Key. ¡Tenemos una fantástica lista de invitados esta temporada, así que suscríbanse dondequiera que escuchen sus pódcasts!

    Al comenzar esta vibrante temporada, espero que se sientan renovados, motivados y listos para las oportunidades que están por venir. Sigamos apoyándonos mutuamente en nuestro camino hacia un bienestar duradero.

    Con buena salud,

    Donna Rey, doctora en Educación

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