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Voices of crime victims need to be heard, though theyre often relegated to darkened silence, Theresa Roth says.

I think that the theme is here, centering on elevating voices, is very, very important because crime often happens in private, behind closed doors, said Roth, program coordinator for the Justice for Children Advocacy Center, during a recent Genesee County meeting.

The meeting of legislators was to recognize various efforts throughout the county and across the country in April, and this week shines a light on crime victims rights.

Legislator Gary Maha read a related proclamation that states:

WHEREAS, the term victim is more than just a label and has legal standing and protections that go along with it; and

WHEREAS, crime victims rights acts passed here in New York and at the federal

level guarantee victims the right to meaningfully participate in the criminal justice

process; and

WHEREAS, victim service providers, advocates, law enforcement officers,

attorneys, and other allied professionals can help survivors find their justice by

enforcing these rights; and

WHEREAS, victim service providers and allied professionals can reach more

victims through innovative, trauma-informed programs, such as telehealth services

and multidisciplinary teams; and

WHEREAS, victim service providers and allied professionals can increase access to

victim services and compensation in areas that have been historically underserved,

marginalized, and adversely affected by inequality by implementing culturally

responsive services; and

WHEREAS, equity and inclusion are fundamental prerequisites to survivor care,

and survivor-led services that provide victims with opportunities to share their

experiences are essential blueprints for support; and

WHEREAS, National Crime Victims Rights Week provides an opportunity to

recommit to ensuring that accessible, appropriate, and trauma-informed services are

offered to all victims of crime; and

WHEREAS, Genesee County is hereby dedicated to helping crime survivors find

their justice by enforcing victims rights, expanding access to services, and ensuring

equity and inclusion for all. Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the Genesee County Legislature proclaims the week of April 23-

29, 2023 Crime Victims Rights Week in Genesee County.

Diana Prinzi of Genesee Justice said that the most important thing her agency can do first is to let their voices be heard. And then to takethe crucial steps to help victims begin to heal.

We work with all of our community members trying to make them whole again. And let them know that we care and provide the services they need to repair the harm that was done to them, she said. And we appreciate all the community members that assist with that, our other agencies we partner with, multidisciplinary teams we work with. We couldnt do it alone.

County Legislator Gary Maha and Diana Prinzi flank Theresa Roth as she talks about the importance of elevating victims' voices during a recent meeting that recognized Crime Victims Rights Week and other efforts that are part of April. Photo by Joanne Beck.

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Crime victims encouraged to exercise most important right: talk about it - The Batavian

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Looking to get active outdoors this summer? The City of Grand Rapids is offering a bunch of free outdoor fitness classes!

Grand Rapids recently announced the 8th year offree fitness in parks and public spaces across the city.

No matter how you want to get moving, there is likely a class for you.Fifteen dance, cardio, and yoga classes will run weekly starting May 15, 2023.

City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation, Facebook

Classes are Monday through Friday and you don't have to register in advance.If a class has to be cancelled due to weather, the announcement will be made on theParks and Recreation Facebook page, or you can call thedepartments cancellation hotline at (616) 456-3699.

The City of Grand Rapids is partnering withPriority Health and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. on the fitness series.

Instructors will lead a variety of classes at varying fitness levels, includingkickboxing, Zumba, and slow flow yoga. The earliest class starts at 5:30a.m. and the latest class starts at 7:15p.m.

City of Grand Rapids

Clicking on each link below will take you to the Facebook event for the class.

Mondays (No class May 29)

Tuesdays (No class July 4)

Wednesdays

Thursdays

Fridays

You can find out more about the series here and on the Parks and Rec Facebook page.

If you're looking for something different, the City of GR also hasclasses at varying prices, including cycling, Kettlebell AMPD, swing dancing, barre, andpaddle board basics.

City of Grand Rapids/ Canva Pro

There are programs for kids dance and yoga too.

For more free exercise opportunities in Grand Rapids, head to the climbing walls at Highland Parkor the outdoor fitness park at Ottawa Hills park.

Did you know there's a bunch of sports equipment and gear you can check out for free from the City of GR too?

Artist Nick Nortierhas created a new public art piece on the boulder wall at Grand Rapids' Highland Park.

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Want to Work on Your Fitness? City of GR Offering More Than 15 ... - WGRD

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Published

2023-04-24 15:59

3:59

April 24, 2023

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Between the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the high cost of eldercare and severe staffing shortages in long-term care, loneliness may seem like a comparatively small problem for older adults. However, the loneliness epidemic, as it was once described by former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, is a serious problem for the approximately 56 million Americans aged 65 and older.

What should older adults and caregivers, both disproportionately women, do to help address loneliness and social isolation? What resources are available for older adults? Are some older adults more at risk than others?

The 19th spoke with experts about loneliness, social isolation and what older adults and caregivers can do to increase the amount of meaningful connection in their lives.

Loneliness can be hard to define. There isnt a blood test or a nose swab to test for it. It is subjective.

You can be isolated and not feel lonely. You can be surrounded by people and feel lonely, said Preeti Malani, a professor of medicine at the University of Michigan.

Malani served as a senior advisor for the National Poll on Healthy Aging, which has tracked loneliness in older adults since 2018. The poll asked about frequency of contact with others, as well as more subjective measures like whether respondents felt a sense of companionship.

Despite being subjective, the health impacts of loneliness and social isolation are clear.

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Nina Blachman, director of the geriatrics fellowship program at NYU Langone Health, said that loneliness can play a role in worsening all of [an older adults] conditions. Its associated with an increased risk of dementia, an increased risk of stroke. And of course, an increased risk of depression.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, social isolation is linked with a significant increase in premature death from all causes. It is also linked with a 50 percent increase in dementia and a 29 percent increase in heart disease, as well as increases in depression and anxiety that may result from feeling isolated.

In 2018, 27 percent of adults between ages 50 and 80 in the National Poll on Healthy Aging said that they felt isolated from others in the past year. Malani described this as a pre-pandemic baseline.

Unsurprisingly, loneliness peaked in 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Older adults were sort of taken out of circulation, because we were worried about the health effects [of COVID-19]. We knew that if you were older and you got COVID, you were at higher risk of hospitalization and even death, Malani said.

In June 2020, 56 percent of older adults reported feeling socially isolated. That number has gone down with the advent of the COVID-19 vaccine and the return to normalcy, but it has not completely returned to pre-pandemic levels.

According to the latest polling from January 2023, 34 percent of older adults reported feeling socially isolated.

A lot of people havent gone back to where they were, Malani said. She stressed the importance of maintaining social connection and using the tools we have available to make doing so safer.

We need to provide reassurance and actual tools. Masks work, vaccines prevent severe disease. Its a layered approach. Back in 2020, it was all or nothing. But now we can continue to do the things that are important to us in ways that keep COVID risks low, Malani said.

According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, older adults who are in poor physical or mental health are more likely to report feeling socially isolated, and in higher numbers.

People who had self-reported disabilities were more likely to feel socially isolated. This is a group of people who have more infrequent social contact, Malani said.

Women also reported higher rates of social isolation and lack of companionship in the poll than men.

Theres certainly many more older women, just demographics-wise. Women outlive men, so older women are at more risk of becoming lonely, said Blachman.

Opportunities to socialize are local, according to Emily Allen, senior vice president of programs at the AARP Foundation.

We always recommend that individuals start with their local area agency on aging. [Theyre] really doing a lot of great work helping people get connected back to each other, Allen said.

AARPs Connect2Affect tool can help caregivers and older adults find programs in their communities to address their needs including affordable housing or respite care.

We want to make sure were directing people to programs that will address the root causes. Is it because of a health crisis that theyre suddenly not able to go out as much? Or is it a caregiving responsibility? Is it the death of a spouse? Allen said.

Volunteering can also be a great way for older adults to make social connections. Allen highlighted the Experience Corps, which links older adult volunteers with children, with the goal of getting young students to read at grade level. The program suffered a setback from the pandemic while schools were closed, but it currently has about 2,000 volunteers nationwide.

It really has dual outcomes. It engages older adults in volunteerism and it improves reading levels for students, Allen said.

Blachman also stressed the importance of local communities in building social connections for seniors.

Its about encouraging them to do what theyre interested in doing. Whether its exercise classes, religious organizations, whatever that might be, she said. She highlighted that senior centers will sometimes have specific programs for older adults who are immigrants and who may not speak English as a first language.

For older adults with physical disabilities or limited mobility, virtual classes may be a good option, according to Blachman.

She also recommends looking into what local resources are available to help older adults and adults with disabilities get around.

Some senior centers have accessible transportation, Blachman said.

For older adults who are homebound, Allen recommends friendly call programs, which organize calls between older adults and volunteers on a regular basis, to check in on how people are doing or to just chat. AARP operates its own, but there are also programs at the state and local level, as well as smaller programs operated by individual religious organizations and community centers. Friendly call programs can also be a good option for people with dementia or other cognitive difficulties.

Its really just about having a conversation with somebody, Allen said.

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The 19th Explains: How to ease the loneliness epidemic and social isolation among older adults - The 19th*

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In the ever-evolving corporate landscape, businesses are continuously adapting to meet the needs of their employees. With the rise of remote work and virtual collaboration, companies have recognized the importance of reimagining their approach to employee health and wellness. A key solution to this challenge is the implementation of virtual and remote corporate wellness services.

This comprehensive guide will delve deeper into the numerous benefits of incorporating virtual and remote wellness services into your company's health and wellness program. Furthermore, we will share how the Corporate Health & Wellness Association's Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist program can help you effectively implement these services.

One of the most significant advantages of virtual and remote wellness services is the unparalleled accessibility they offer. Employees can access these resources from any location with an internet connection, eliminating the need to commute to a physical location. This convenience can dramatically increase participation rates, particularly for employees who live far from the office, have busy schedules, or face mobility challenges.

Moreover, virtual and remote wellness services provide employees with the freedom to engage with these resources at their preferred time, allowing for a better work-life balance. This flexibility encourages employees to prioritize their health and wellness needs, leading to a healthier and happier workforce.

Virtual and remote wellness services are often more cost-effective than traditional in-person programs. By leveraging technology, companies can scale their wellness offerings to accommodate a larger number of employees without significantly increasing expenses. This cost efficiency allows organizations to provide a more comprehensive wellness program, reaching more employees and generating better results.

Additionally, virtual and remote wellness services can lower operational costs for businesses by reducing the need for dedicated on-site facilities and staff. This financial benefit can enable companies to allocate resources to other critical areas, such as employee development and benefits.

Virtual and remote wellness services can be easily tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of individual employees. This personalization can range from providing on-demand exercise classes to creating customized nutrition plans. By offering a diverse array of services, companies can ensure that their wellness programs appeal to a wide variety of employees, increasing engagement and satisfaction.

Furthermore, this flexibility allows employees to set their own wellness goals and track their progress over time. By empowering employees to take control of their health journey, companies can foster a sense of accountability and commitment, leading to improved long-term outcomes.

The rise in remote work has also led to an increased awareness of the importance of mental health. Virtual and remote wellness services can offer much-needed support in this area, providing employees with access to resources such as online therapy, mindfulness apps, and stress management tools. By addressing mental health concerns proactively, companies can foster a more resilient and productive workforce.

In addition to mental health support, virtual and remote wellness services can also provide resources for employees dealing with other personal challenges, such as addiction recovery, financial wellness, and work-life balance. By addressing these concerns holistically, companies can create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.

Employees who feel supported in their health and wellness goals are more likely to be engaged in their work and stay with their employer. Virtual and remote wellness services can help companies demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being, which can lead to improved job satisfaction and reduced turnover.

Companies that invest in virtual and remote wellness services can also enhance their employer brand, attracting top talent in an increasingly competitive job market. By showcasing a strong commitment to employee well-being, organizations can differentiate themselves and position themselves as desirable places to work.

Virtual and remote wellness services often generate valuable data on employee participation, progress, and overall health. Companies can use the information generated from virtual and remote wellness services to refine their wellness programs, identify areas for improvement, and better target their efforts. By leveraging data-driven insights, organizations can create more effective and impactful wellness initiatives.

In addition to informing program adjustments, data from virtual and remote wellness services can also help companies identify trends and patterns in employee health. This information can enable organizations to be proactive in addressing potential health risks, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of their workforce.

Virtual and remote wellness services can help create a sense of community among employees, even when they are physically separated. By offering group challenges, online forums, and interactive events, companies can encourage employees to connect with one another, share their wellness experiences, and offer support.

This sense of connection can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness that can arise from remote work, contributing to improved mental health and overall well-being. Additionally, fostering a sense of community can enhance employee engagement, as individuals feel more connected to their colleagues and company culture.

Incorporating virtual and remote wellness services into your company's health and wellness program can provide numerous benefits, from increased accessibility and flexibility to enhanced employee engagement and retention. By embracing these services, you can create a more supportive and inclusive workplace culture, ultimately contributing to the overall success of your organization.

If you're interested in implementing virtual and remote wellness services effectively, the Corporate Health & Wellness Association offers the Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist program. This leading training and certification program equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to design, manage, and evaluate corporate wellbeing initiatives. To learn more and start your journey as a Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist, visit https://www.corporatewellnesscertification.com/.

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The Benefits of Offering Virtual and Remote Corporate Wellness ... - Corporate Wellness Magazine

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Human Resources: Upcoming May Programs

To register for these and other programs, visit https://www.hr.upenn.edu/PennHR/learn-grow/trainings-courses-and-webinars/onsite-programs.

Creating and Maintaining Your LinkedIn Profile; 5/5; 12:30 p.m.1:30 p.m.; online. This session will review tips on creating a robust LinkedIn profile that will get you noticed by recruiters and industry professionals.

Health Advocate Presents: Mental Health and Me; 5/9; 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m.; 5/18; 10:15 a.m.-11:15 a.m. and 4:15-5:15 p.m.; online. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an opportunity to take time to reflect, understand, and explore how to care for your own mental and emotional well-being. Join us for this webinar to explore strategies to manage our mental/emotional health as well as use available resources to help. We will also take a look at early warning signs to seek help and techniques to maintain positive mental health and wellness.

Virtual Restorative Practices at Penn 101; 5/10; noon1 p.m.; online. What does living restoratively mean? Join Pablo Cerdera, associate director of restorative practices at Penn, for an introductory session on what restorative practices are and how we use themin our personal relationships, parenting, friend circles, community groups, with students, and in the workplace.

Mindfulness and Anxiety: Turn Your Anxiety Into Your Superpower; 5/11; noon1 p.m.; online. Learn three simple ways to turn anxiety into courage. We will practice mindfulness meditation, journal, and set intentions for focus, and create a growth mindset.

Finding Balance in Busy Lives; 5/23; 12:301:30 p.m.; online. Finding balance between our personal and professional lives is something many people strive for. However, consistently striving to achieve total balance can lead to feelings of guilt. By setting and working towards attainable goals at work and home, we can find ways to reduce guilt and feel more balanced. This webinar offers daily tips and long-term strategies to find the work/life balance that works for you, minimizing stress in the process.

Virtual Workshop: Investing 201 with MetLife; 5/24; noon1 p.m.; online. Build upon your investment knowledge and experience; and go beyond the basics. In this workshop, you will learn about tax implications of equity and fixed income investing performance metrics, what they mean to your investment choices, and identifying and managing different types of investments and their risks.

Self-Kindness for Resilience; 5/25; noon12:45 p.m.; online. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so theres no better time to attend this workshop. There are three practices in mindfulness meditation: single-pointed concentration, open attention, and loving-kindness. Learn and experience loving-kindness and learn how self-kindness can be the stepping stone towards loving kindness of others. You will learn a technique that you can practice daily.

Time and Energy Management: Ideas for Sustainable Life Balance; 5/31; 12:301:30 p.m.; online. As part of our Ideas for Sustainable Life Balance series, this interactive workshop defines energy management in terms of its relationship to work-life balance, asserting that time is finite but energy is not. Several traditional tools are presented, but the focus is largely on the need for sustainable practices of working and living in the midst of a pandemic. Individuals will complete a personal energy assessment and to consider a new habit that will help energize them.

Self-Defense and Self-Empowerment Workshop; 5/31; 5:307:30 p.m.; Pottruck Health and Fitness Center. Were excited to host a special workshop in collaboration with the Division of Public Safety (DPS). Tracey Cardella, a victim advocate with Special Services, has been teaching self-defense and self-empowering classes with Penn for 14 years. She is also the founder and lead instructor of Fight4U, LLC. Build your confidence with situational awareness while you learn a few basic self-defense moves. The goal is to raise awareness in vulnerable situations, utilizing realistic scenarios. No weapon defense is taught in this class. Please join us for a session that will raise awareness and empowermenta reminder of how strong you are! If there are no spots left and youd like to join the waitlist, please email ericah@upenn.edu.

Bright Horizons Care BenefitA Marketplace for Discounted Family Supports; 5/10; noon12:30 p.m.; online. Through the Bright Horizons Marketplace, you have access to resources and discounts for ongoing family needs. Join our webinar to learn more about your options for primary childcare, family care and household support, elder care planning, tutoring and test prep, enrichments, camps, and more.

Bright Horizons Care Benefit-Quality Care for Your Family; 5/16; noon12:30 pm; online. When caregivers cancel, school goes on break, mom or dad need an extra hand, or youre in between care arrangements, do you have a plan for family care? Your Bright Horizons Back-Up Care benefit can help. Join our webinar to learn about the support available to you.

Bright Horizons Care Benefit-Tutoring for All Ages; 5/17; noon12:30 p.m.; online. Whether youre trying to figure out your kids homework, helping them study for a test, supporting your college student with their classes, managing your own schoolwork, or all of the above, your tutoring benefit through Bright Horizons Back-Up Care can make life easier. Join us to learn more about your available options and how to access affordable tutoring.

Bright Horizons Care Benefit-Quality Care for Adult and Elder Loved Ones; 5/18; 2 2:40 pm; online. Whether youre caring for an elderly parent or adult relative or preparing for when that need might arise, you have support through your Bright Horizons Elder Care and Bright Horizons Back-Up Care benefits. Plus, you have additional discounted options through our Bright Horizons Marketplace with Sittercity. Join our webinar to learn more about how your benefits can support you and your adult or elder relatives throughout the caregiving journey. You dont have to tackle it alone.

Your Career At Penn; 5/19; 12:301:30 p.m.; online. This webinar has been developed to assist staff in building their careers at Penn by helping to connect your skills and abilities with career opportunities. The session will be facilitated by Penn HR. Topics include increasing your marketability at Penn and internal job strategies.

Virtual 30-Minute Chair Yoga Plus Core; 5/1, 5/8 and 5/22; noon12:30 pm; online. The Chair Yoga + Core program consists of moves you can do to tone your abdominals, lengthen your spine, and strengthen your entire torso region. Many activities depend on a strong core, from the simple act of bending to put on shoes to the most athletic endeavors. Chair yoga for the core helps you learn to engage your abdominals correctly. With the abdominals engaged, youll find a natural lift and length without having to force anything. In just 30 minutes, beginners and those who regularly exercise can learn what to do without leaving their desks.

Virtual Chair Yoga; 5/3 and 5/17; noon1 p.m.; online. Plenty of people turn to yoga for exercise, but striking a pose isnt for everyone. If youve been tempted to try it but dont know where to start, its time to try chair yoga. Chair yoga is a more moderate form of yoga thats done while sitting in a chair or using a chair for support. You get the same benefits of a regular yoga workout (like increased strength, flexibility, and balance) but dont have to master complex poses. Chair yoga can even better your breathing and teach you how to relax your mind and improve your well-being. Ready to give it a try? Join us for a free chair yoga workshop. And dont worry about your experience or flexibilitychair yoga can be modified for all levels.

Deskercise; 5/4; noon12:30 p.m.; online. This class will take you through a variety of movements that you can do right at your desk.Be prepared to work through a 30-minute low impact strength and flexibility workout.

Virtual 30-Minute Guided Meditation; 5/5, 5/12 and 5/19; noon12:30 p.m.; online. Meditation, quite simply, is training your attention. In an age of distraction, this becomes a very important skill if we are to maintain focus and mental acuity and develop emotional intelligence and fitness. This meditation is guided to encourage spaciousness and stability in your life. It may be the most worthwhile 30 minutes of your day

Monthly Wellness Walk: Mental Health Awareness Month; 5/17; meet at noon; College Hall. Meet the team at noon on Woodland Walk, by College Hall and the Ben Franklin statue. The Penn Public Health team will lead you on a two-mile walk on/near campus to help you increase physical activity and steps, plus build community with participating Penn staff and faculty. Be sure to wear sneakers or comfortable shoes, bring water, and invite a colleague to join the celebration! For May, please join us in supporting Mental Health Awareness Month by wearing green.

Virtual Guided Mindful Meditation; 5/18; noon1 p.m.; online. This workshop is for participants to practice present moment awareness with kindness and compassion. Our practice will include guided meditation focusing on the breath, body awareness, mindful movement, and other practices to cultivate well-being for self and others. The workshop is appropriate for people new to mindfulness practice as well as more experienced practitioners. No experience is necessary. All are warmly welcome.

Spin Class; 5/25; noon12:45 p.m.; Pottruck. Free HR-sponsored spin class, in partnership with Campus Recreation: Pedal your way to a fantastic workout indoors. With the use of stationary cycles, each class is led on a virtual outdoor road, complete with a variety of exercises. This class will give you an energizing, calorie-burning, fun workout and it is great for all fitness levels because you can always ride at a self-directed pace.

Division of Human Resources

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Human Resources: Upcoming May Programs | University of ... - University of Pennsylvania

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In today's fast-paced and technology-driven world, organizations are continuously seeking innovative ways to enhance employee wellness and training. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a powerful tool that can significantly improve the well-being and professional development of employees across various industries. In this expanded article, we will further explore the numerous advantages of integrating virtual reality into your employee wellness and training programs, and how Global Healthcare Resources can assist in unlocking its full potential.

a. Higher Engagement and Motivation

One of the primary reasons traditional training methods may not be effective is the lack of engagement and motivation among employees. Virtual reality offers a highly interactive and immersive experience that captures the user's attention, resulting in increased motivation and engagement during the learning process.

b. Real-time Feedback and Assessment

Virtual reality platforms can provide real-time feedback and assessment, allowing employees to correct mistakes and improve their skills promptly. This immediate feedback facilitates a more efficient learning process and accelerates skill development.

a. Accessible Mental Health Support

Virtual reality can serve as a valuable mental health support tool by providing employees with easy access to mindfulness and relaxation exercises. VR can help organizations create a culture of mental well-being, encouraging employees to prioritize their mental health and seek support when needed.

b. Increased Work-life Balance

By offering immersive relaxation experiences, virtual reality can help employees maintain a healthier work-life balance. These VR breaks can provide a much-needed mental escape from the pressures of the workplace, promoting rejuvenation and increased productivity upon return.

a. Gamification of Exercise

The gamification of exercise through virtual reality can make physical activity more enjoyable and engaging for employees. By transforming workouts into entertaining and interactive games, VR can increase adherence to exercise programs and encourage long-term healthy habits.

b. Improved Posture and Ergonomics

Virtual reality can also address the issue of poor posture and ergonomics in the workplace. Through VR training programs, employees can learn proper sitting, standing, and movement techniques that can help prevent musculoskeletal disorders and other health issues related to poor posture.

a. Enhanced Cross-cultural Communication

Virtual reality can bridge the gap between employees from different cultural backgrounds by offering immersive cultural training experiences. This heightened cultural awareness can improve communication, reduce misunderstandings, and foster a more inclusive work environment.

b. Conflict Resolution and Negotiation Skills

Virtual reality can also be used to simulate challenging workplace scenarios, enabling employees to practice their conflict resolution and negotiation skills in a safe environment. This training can lead to improved workplace relationships, increased job satisfaction, and a more harmonious work environment.

a. Ongoing Platform Updates and Support

As technology advances, virtual reality platforms continue to evolve and improve. This ongoing development ensures that your organization will always have access to the latest tools and features to support employee wellness and training.

b. Seamless Integration with Existing Systems

Virtual reality solutions can be designed to integrate seamlessly with your organization's existing systems, allowing for a smooth transition and minimal disruption to your current processes.

Incorporating virtual reality into your employee wellness and training programs can lead to numerous benefits, including higher engagement, improved mental and physical well-being, effective collaboration, and a more inclusive work environment. By leveraging the power of VR, your organization can foster a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.

Let Global Healthcare Resources assist you in reaping the benefits of virtual reality for employee wellness and training. Our team of experts can develop and implement tailored VR solutions that meet your organization's unique needs. Visit our website at https://www.globalhealthcareresources.com/wellnessconsulting to learn more about how we can support you in enhancing your employee wellness and training initiatives. Together, we can harness the power of virtual reality to create a healthier, happier, and more productive workplace for your organization. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in the future success of your employees and company. Contact us today and take the first step towards transforming your employee wellness and training programs through the innovative use of virtual reality.

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The Benefits of Virtual Reality for Employee Wellness and Training - Corporate Wellness Magazine

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Two students practice with equipment in an excercise physiology lab. The lab was taught by graduate assistant Garrison Collier, who is going into Nutrition and Excercise Science.

Photo by Lizzy Stock

In the 2023-24 school year, the department of Kinesiology, Nutrition and Recreation is changing its name to the department of Allied Health, Kinesiology and Sport Sciences. While a department name might not initially seem like a big deal, the change will affect many people, including prospective students and department members.

Department chair Jason Wagganer said making the department name more broad Allied Health refers to any professional who works to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases will help to avoid future name changes.

It gives us more broad terms, which could allow us to still work to possibly modify programs in the future to continue to stay accurate because, as you know, fields change very quickly, and health fields have changed dramatically, Wagganer said.

Wagganer said the department has recently shifted several degree options and added components from other programs. For example, the Recreation and Park Administration degree will be modified as an optional track of the Sport Management degree, a public health degree has been added from the Biology department, a Master of Science in Athletic Training program will start in Summer 2023 and a Respiratory Therapy degree will be introduced, which will partner with the Cape Girardeau Career & Technology Center.

Wagganer said these changes will help the department gain more of a cohesive identity, which will help them to continue to grow the program and gain some separation from the nursing department.

Avoiding future name changes is especially important when considering the rigorous process involved in changing a department name. University Provost Mike Godard said department name change requests start at the department level and are reviewed by the College Council and the dean before going to the provost and president for approval.

Godard said during the entire process, individuals can provide their input. A comprehensive market analysis is also involved to determine the demand for different degrees, in addition to trying to align the program and degree names with industry recognized terminology. Through these processes, the interests of educators, students and industry professionals help shape these changes before they are finalized, Goddard said.

To avoid interdisciplinary overlap, Goddard said when new courses are being proposed, they are posted for 10 days for faculty to respond to and mention any overlap between current courses.

Godard said when deciding which degrees the University will offer, they look at the employment marketplace and what other institutions are offering in order to determine what is in demand enough to make it worth bringing a program to SEMO.

Nutrition and Exercise Science graduate assistant Garrison Collier chose his degree path in order to learn how to utilize fitness and exercise in order to help people improve their health and become better people.

He said he anticipates the name change might pique the interest of prospective students who want to go into the health field but havent decided on a career path.

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What's in a name? Meet the new Allied Health, Kinesiology and ... - The Arrow

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Published 12:00 am Sunday, April 23, 2023

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Executive Director Nan Buehrer (center), Mayor Karen Alexander (left), and previous Rufty-Holmes Senior Center board presidents stand with the national accreditation plaque. Brad Dountz/Salisbury Post.

Divided By Four played great covers of songs by Marvin Gaye, James Brown, and The O'Jays. Brad Dountz/Salisbury Post

Delicious food and drinks were provided to the members of Rufty-Holmes Senior Center. Brad Dountz/Salisbury Post.

SALISBURY Rufty-Holmes Senior Center has been one of the pillars of Rowan County since the 1980s and countless people have been part of the effort to make it the gathering place it is today. To celebrate its 35th anniversary and having completed its fifth national re-accreditation process, Rufty-Holmes held a party to celebrate the achievements.

Rufty-Holmes was founded in 1988 and became the first senior center in North Carolina to be nationally accredited in 2001. The center must meet nine area standards and be professionally peer reviewed to qualify for reaccreditation. On Thursday afternoon, the theme at Rufty-Holmes was Thrive at 35 and the band Divided by Four kicked things off by playing some tunes for an excited crowd of community members and volunteers. The event also included food and drink, and guest speakers sing praises of the facility.

State Sen. Carl Ford offered a pre-recorded message that he made while in Raleigh to share with everyone.

We appreciate you folks at Rufty-Holmes doing so many good things for us old folks, 55 and older. We appreciate the great programs, fantastic food, fellowship, fun, playing pool, swimming in the pool, playing games, exercising. Its all there and you folks do a fantastic job, Senator Ford said.

Rowan County Commissioner Craig Pierce was once on Rufty-Holmes board of directors and now serves as an advisor to their finance committee. As a county commissioner, he spoke on how vital Rufty-Holmes is to the area and as the population continues to increase, it will stay that way.

All the commissioners understand how important the center is and what it does for the community and weve continually tried to fund it as much as we possibly can so they can continue serve as many people in this community, Pierce said.

Mayor Karen Alexander announced and read a formal proclamation about Rufty-Holmes before they were awarded a plaque to commemorate their accreditation. Just like Commissioner Pierce, Mayor Alexander gave the same reassurance that Rufty-Holmes is in the citys plans for the future.

Older adults are an integral aspect of our community, providing wisdom, life long experiences that people of all ages can benefit from. And where as the Rufty-Holmes Senior Center has involved, enriched, and empowered older adults in Salisbury and Rowan County since 1988And of course, you are in our budget every year and will remain there, Mayor Alexander said.

Rosalie Roberts has been a Rufty-Holmes member for 22 years. The reason she loves it so much is because of the friendships shes made and the exercise programs. Roberts is one of many who have been positively impacted by the selfless care of Rufty-Holmes.

Its probably the best place ever. Ive lived in several states and Ive been to many of these types of places and senior centers, this is tops, Roberts said. Im surprised how many people are here. There werent enough chairs in the whole building for everybody.

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Thrive at 35: Rufty-Holmes honors accreditation on anniversary ... - Salisbury Post

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Corporate wellness programs have become an integral part of many companies in recent years. These programs aim to improve employee well-being by promoting healthy behaviors, reducing stress levels, and improving overall quality of life. However, the success of these programs is not solely dependent on their design and implementation. Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in the success of corporate wellness programs.

Emotional intelligence refers to an individual's ability to recognize, understand, and manage their own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It includes several components, such as self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. These skills are essential for effective communication, building relationships, and navigating social situations.

In the context of corporate wellness, emotional intelligence is essential for understanding the emotional needs of employees. A high level of EQ in corporate wellness programs can lead to several benefits, including improved engagement, better communication, increased resilience, and enhanced empathy.

Improved Engagement

Engaged employees are more productive, committed, and loyal to their company. They are also more likely to take initiative and contribute to the success of their organization. Emotional intelligence can help employees develop a better understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to take on tasks that align with their skills and interests. As a result, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their work.

Better Communication

Effective communication is essential for the success of any corporate wellness program. Employees with high levels of emotional intelligence can communicate effectively with their colleagues, managers, and clients. They can express their thoughts and feelings clearly, listen actively, and respond appropriately. They can also recognize the emotional cues of others and adjust their communication style accordingly.

Increased Resilience

Emotional intelligence helps individuals develop resilience and cope with stress. Employees who are emotionally intelligent are better equipped to handle stressful situations and bounce back from setbacks. They can identify their emotions and take steps to manage them effectively, reducing the impact of stress on their physical and mental health. This can lead to a healthier and more productive workforce.

Enhanced Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Employees with high levels of emotional intelligence can empathize with their colleagues, clients, and customers. They can put themselves in others' shoes and respond appropriately, creating a positive work environment. This can lead to improved relationships, increased trust, and a more cohesive team.

Developing Emotional Intelligence in Corporate Wellness Programs

Emotional intelligence is not a fixed trait, and it can be developed and enhanced with practice. Corporate wellness programs can incorporate activities that help employees develop emotional intelligence, such as self-reflection, active listening, empathy training, and stress management.

Self-reflection is an essential component of emotional intelligence. Employees can develop self-awareness by reflecting on their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Corporate wellness programs can include mindfulness exercises, journaling, and coaching to help employees develop self-awareness.

Active listening is a critical skill in communication. Employees can develop active listening skills by focusing on the speaker, asking questions, and summarizing what they have heard. Corporate wellness programs can include training and workshops on active listening to enhance communication skills.

Empathy is a vital component of emotional intelligence. Employees can develop empathy by learning to recognize and understand the emotions of others. Corporate wellness programs can include empathy training to help employees understand and respond to the emotions of their colleagues, clients, and customers.

Stress is a significant barrier to emotional intelligence. Corporate wellness programs can include stress management activities, such as relaxation techniques, time management, and physical exercise, to help employees manage stress effectively.

The Role of Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist

Corporate wellness programs can benefit from the expertise of certified professionals who have the knowledge and skills to design and implement effective programs. The Corporate Health & Wellness Association offers the Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist program, the leading training and certification program for individuals in corporate wellbeing. This program equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to develop and implement successful corporate wellness programs, including strategies to enhance emotional intelligence.

By becoming a Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist, professionals can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of emotional intelligence in corporate wellness programs. They will learn how to create programs that meet the emotional needs of employees, enhance communication skills, and develop resilience and empathy.

The Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist program covers a range of topics, including program design and implementation, health promotion, and risk management. It also includes training on emotional intelligence and its role in corporate wellness success.

The program is designed for professionals who are passionate about employee well-being and want to make a positive impact on their organization. Participants can learn at their own pace and have access to a range of resources, including webinars, online courses, and networking opportunities.

Upon completion of the program, participants will have the knowledge and skills to design and implement effective corporate wellness programs that prioritize emotional intelligence. They will also receive a certification that recognizes their expertise in the field of corporate wellness.

Emotional intelligence is a critical component of corporate wellness programs. By understanding and addressing the emotional needs of employees, companies can create a healthier and happier workforce, leading to increased productivity and reduced healthcare costs. The Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist program offered by the Corporate Health & Wellness Association can help professionals develop the knowledge and skills to design and implement successful corporate wellness programs that prioritize emotional intelligence. To learn more about the program and how it can benefit you and your organization, visit https://www.corporatewellnesscertification.com/.

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The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Corporate Wellness Success - Corporate Wellness Magazine

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In the beginning of Shortchanged: How Advanced Placement Cheat Students, Annie Abrams recounts her experience teaching AP courses in a public high school in New York City.

It was 2016. She had just finished earning a Ph.D. in American literature at New York University, and so she expected to have few problems with the material.

I was wrong to assume continuity between the experiences of teaching liberal arts courses and navigating the Advanced Placement program, she writes. Teaching in college, she had learned the point of marking essays, which was to help students refine their thinking while instilling in them the confidence that they were capable of intellectual growth.

Abrams continues, As a teacher of Advanced Placement, I tried to offer meaningful feedback to her students. But my literature course now had two goals: helping students take their own minds seriously and giving them specificand often competingtools to perform well on a high stakes test at the end of the year."

And she writes that, overwhelmed by the volume of papers I was expected to grade and the limited time in which I was expected to do it, she saw the definite appeal of using the College Boards scale (then 1 to 9) and using its canned commentary for each point.

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But rubrics changed students relationships to their writing, and to me, as their reader. Abrams writes that the exercise became mechanical.

Her criticism is applied equally across the disciplines, and she doesnt focus on the recent controversy over the new AP course in African American Studies.

The creation of the AP program itself isnt the problem for Abrams. In several chapters, she reviews the programs history and finds the founders intentions of aligning liberal arts education across high schools and colleges in ways they believed would protect democracy.

The problem, she writes, is the collateral damage caused by moving away from this vision and to an emphasis on testing.

The most damning portions of the book are on the present state of AP.

In a chapter called Copy Paste Classroom, Abrams discusses the AP Classroom, a new digital platform created by the College Board, and how it has made instruction a perversely dehumanized transaction.

The classroom has such features as topic questions and personal progress checks.

AP Classroom is a cheaper version of the real thing, and the quality of education it offers is likewise impoverished, Abrams writes. The presentation of information is clean, sterile and static.

The manual for U.S. history teachers is simultaneously dizzying and reductive, she writes. Everything is quantifiable: there are nine units and roughly 15 instructional periods per unit. Each day has an associated skill from a list of six, a reasoning process from a list of three and a theme from a list of eight. Of all these features, Abrams writes, there is not an emphasis on teaching. Who knows? And, one suspects, who cares? Whats clear is that the insistence of systematizing desiccates the courses meaning.

She continues, I am not a historian by training. But it came as a surprise to me that American national identity was not a main concern from 1890 to 1945, nor has it been one from 1980 to the present. It has clearly felt like one of the countrys defining contests in my lifetime.

While the College Board does not require teachers to use Classroom, Abram notes that even if the AP Classroom does not instill uniformity in course content upon implementation, it almost certainly will over time.

And Abrams contrasts that with the founders of AP: The AP programs founders argued that the key to stimulating genuine intellectual exploration and development was creativity and flexibility for teachers, something enjoyed in the college classroom that they expected AP classes would also manifest.

In an interview, Abrams discussed some of the challenges with fixing the AP program.

Many students, and many parents, believe that there is a direct relationship between taking AP courses (the greater the number, the better) and being admitted to a good college. Despite statements from college officials that taking AP courses is one way to demonstrate a students commitment to taking rigorous courses, students and parents believe otherwise.

People feel that they need the program, Abrams said. I do hope to reach some of those parents.

Ultimately, Abrams argues that whats needed is more money for K-12 systems, and not just for AP programs, but for quality investments at all levels. And also more funds for higher education. She said enough money is needed so districts cant assume AP has the answers.

She acknowledged this isnt going to happen anytime soon but said that is not a reason to hold back.

Abrams reached out to the College Board when she was conducting research for the book. She said she wanted information that was in the organizations archives. She never received any answer.

The College Board responded to Inside Higher Eds request to talk about the book with a statement:

The great strength of the AP Program is the community of talented, dedicated teachers who care about their students and feel passionate about their subjects. We hear from thousands of those teachers every year, and their insights help make AP more effective and more inspiring for students. Annie Abramss Shortchanged offers one, limited view We find her examination of the AP Program not reflective of the experiences of the broader community of AP teachers and the students they serve. If she had consulted with any of the thousands of AP teachers educating across a variety of subjects, she would have found that students from all backgrounds can excel when they have the right preparation, a welcoming invitation, and a genuine sense of belonging.

The statement continued: For schools across the countryurban and rural, large and small, well-resourced and economically strugglingAP provides a broad framework and a wealth of resources so that teachers at all levels can offer a college-level experience. AP frameworks are flexible by design so that teachers use their experience and creativity to expand and enhance the curricula. No two AP classes are alike, because they rely so thoroughly on the talent and commitment of individual teachers.

As for Abrams, who is currently on leave from her teaching job, she said she wasnt sure if, upon return, she would again teach an AP course.

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New book attacks the AP programs - Inside Higher Ed

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