2023 OHW Executive Summary NoCrop v3

3

DEPUTY DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

Greetings,

I am honored to present the 2023 Executive Summary for the new Office of Health and Wellness (OHW). Since its inception in March to the formal launch in October, the OHW has made significant strides to meet the needs of our staff. Notably, the office reflects a longtime vision of DPSS Director Charity Douglas with support from the DPSS Senior Executive Team, Riverside County Executive Office and Board of Supervisors. Each understands that an enduring positive change must be upheld by committed leadership in collaboration with a valued, resilient and thriving workforce. The OHW recognizes the DPSS workforce requires an environment where staff are supported, acknowledged, valued and heard. Our vision and purpose align with the U.S. Surgeon General’s priorities to make the workplace an “engine of wellbeing, showing workers that they matter, that their work matters, and they have the workplace resources to flourish.” Over the past months, the OHW team has met with DPSS staff members and like-minded agencies across the country to understand the complexities our workers are facing in order to provide them with the highest levels of service and compassion. Our workforce is the heartbeat of our mission. Through post-service surveys, in-depth conversations and a hands-on governance council, diverse representatives from our workforce will continue to inform and drive the OHW’s strategies and direction. Our coaches strive to positively influence the experiences of staff by

bringing quality interventions to address burnout and resources that promote resiliency and wellness.

In 2024, the OHW is stationing a peer coach at Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center. We will be building on the programs and services highlighted in this report. We plan to begin a wellness podcast, expand communications and introduce a wellness symposium to ensure our efforts are far-reaching and making a difference for all the employees of DPSS. Thank you for your support in the year ahead.

Be well,

Lonetta R. Bryan, M.A. Deputy Director, Office of Health and Wellness Lbryan@rivco.org

MISSION: To support and enhance the health and wellness of our social services professionals by providing accessible coaching, resources and self-care tools.

VISION: An organizational culture that supports social service professionals who feel safe, valued and resilient.

VALUES: Advocacy- Confidentiality-Empathy- Integrity-Respect

2023 Office of Health and Wellness Executive Summary