2024 OHW Executive Summary

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2024

OFFICE OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS RIVERSIDE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES

Deputy Director ’ s Message OHW Coaches Internship Program Launch TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Governance Council & Ambassadors Hues of Health (Wellness Campaign) SharePoint Upgrade Impact of OHW in 2024 Connection, Growth, Resilience Thriving! in 2025 (Looking Ahead) Contact Us

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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

DEPUTY DIRECTOR ’ S MESSAGE

Greetings!

As we reflect on the first full year of the Office of Health and Wellness (OHW), I would like to express my gratitude to the Riverside County Board of Supervisors and the Executive Office for their ongoing support and advocacy for workplace wellness. It is with great excitement that I share the achievements, engagement, and progress we've made in developing a strong wellness program that has already earned the backing of our county executive leadership, DPSS executive leadership, and the broader DPSS workforce. This enthusiastic support has been a driving force behind the creation and expansion of wellness programs focused on the overall health of our staff. The OHW has rapidly become a vital resource, and our journey thus far has been one of growth, learning, and meaningful engagement. This year has been about laying a strong foundation. A major accomplishment was the development of our coaching team. OHW coaches completed a comprehensive training program designed to position them for National Board Certification as Health and Wellness Coaches (NBC HWC). This rigorous program ensures that our coaches are well-prepared to support our employees with evidence based tools and strategies that encourage long-term health and wellness goals. In terms of programming, this year was about testing, iterating, and refining. We launched several new initiatives, including group coaching sessions that allowed participants to engage in a supportive community environment. We also introduced division-wide Recess, which encouraged staff to take intentional breaks to engage in stress reducing and calming activities. We’ve been thrilled with the participation and engagement in the initiatives we launched. Our inaugural wellness campaign, Hues of Health, was launched with great success, focusing on staff inspired artistic depictions of wellness. Additionally, we introduced the Well Talk podcast, a quarterly series where we discuss wellness topics, share expert insights, and engage employees in conversations about maintaining a balanced and healthy life. To broaden our reach and engage more individuals, we expanded our communication efforts. OHW has presented at DPSS regional meetings, during new employee inductions, and even at national conferences. These efforts helped us connect with a wider audience and showcase the value of wellness in the workplace.

One of the standout accomplishments this year was the revamp of the OHW SharePoint site, which now features the OHW Wellness Plant. This new initiative focuses on the Eight Dimensions of Wellness, a framework that emphasizes the interconnectedness of various aspects of health, including emotional, environmental, intellectual, physical, financial, social, spiritual, and occupational well being. By incorporating these dimensions into our programs, we are empowering employees to take a more holistic approach to their personal well-being. Looking ahead, we are excited to build on the foundation we’ve established. In the coming year, we plan to expand on the Eight Dimensions of Wellness initiative, providing department-wide opportunities for engagement with each dimension. By doing so, we hope to offer employees tangible tools and activities that will have a long-lasting impact on their overall health. As we move into the new year, we are energized by the success of our first year and are confident that OHW will continue to be a key resource in supporting the health and well-being of every DPSS employee. The enthusiasm and engagement we've seen from our employees have reaffirmed our belief in the importance of wellness in the workplace, and we look forward to what we will accomplish together in the year ahead. Together, we are Wellness!

Be Well,

Lonetta R. Bryan, MA, NBC-HWC Deputy Director, Office of Health and Wellness LBryan@rivco.org

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OHW COACHES

Lonetta R. Bryan, MA, NBC-HWC is the Deputy Director of the Office of Health (OHW) and Wellness for Riverside County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS). She has dedicated over 27 years to human services, including 17 years serving the Riverside County DPSS workforce. Lonetta is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) and a Certified Gallup Strengths Coach. She is passionate about helping others embrace self-care, foster resilience, and build a life of balance, purpose, and vitality through compassion, encouragement, and practical guidance. As a coach and mentor, Lonetta is committed to developing others, empowering them to achieve their full potential and to lead a balanced lifestyle. Lonetta earned her bachelor’s degree from Spelman College and holds master’s degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, and theological studies. In her free time, Lonetta enjoys outdoor activities. Whether hiking scenic trails, cycling, or riding ocean waves, she thrives in nature’s beauty and adventure. LONETTA R. BRYAN, DEPUTY DIRECTOR WELLNESS COACH

Rebekah Taylor, LCSW, is a Peer Support Coach for the Office of Health and Wellness (OHW) and has dedicated the past 12 years to social work and social justice, including nine years with Riverside County. In her role, she supports DPSS staff through coaching and wellness initiatives with an empathetic lens and individualized approach to her work. Over the past year, Rebekah has embraced opportunities for personal and professional growth, creating memorable experiences along the way. In 2025, she looks forward to earning her Doctorate in Social Work (DSW), becoming EMDR-certified, and learning to play guitar. While she’s excited about the prospect of being known as Dr. Taylor, Rebekah finds wellness and balance through snowboarding, paddleboarding with her dog, and exploring the great outdoors on new continents. With enthusiasm and determination, she approaches the year ahead as an opportunity to grow, thrive and inspire others along the way. REBEKAH TAYLOR, CLINICAL THERAPIST PEER SUPPORT COACH

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INTERNSHIP PROGRAM LAUNCH The 2024 introduction of the internship program marked a significant collaboration between the Office of Health and Wellness and the DPSS Children’s Services Division (CSD) Training Region. This partnership welcomed the first Master of Social Work (MSW) intern through the CSD 20/20 Program, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and professional development. Grounded in the principles of Occupational Wellness, the program underscores the value of experiential learning while enhancing OHW’s ability to support staff well-being. By integrating MSW interns, OHW not only contributes to individual growth but also strengthens the Department’s overall capacity to serve its workforce effectively.

EMILY GUMUCIO, CSD SOCIAL SERVICE PRACTITIONER MSW STUDENT INTERN

Emily earned her bachelor’s degree in social work and is currently a Master of Social Work candidate at California Baptist University. In 2015, Emily joined Riverside County Department of Public Social Services-Children’s Services Division, where she served in family maintenance and group home/non-minor dependent programs. Emily is passionate about assisting new social workers in finding ways to thrive in Children’s Services and assisting youth in living full lives. She balances school and work with activities such as gardening, reading, crafting, baking, and international travel. Emily’s goals for 2025 are to become a Certified Health and Wellness Coach, graduate from her master’s program, begin working toward her clinical hours and grow 70% of the food that she eats.

GOVERNANCE COUNCIL & AMBASSADORS

In 2024, the OHW Governance Council (GC) continued to play a role in shaping the future of wellness initiatives across the organization. The GC, made up of staff from various DPSS divisions, worked closely with OHW to create, refine, and finalize the roles and responsibilities for OHW Ambassadors. These Ambassadors will serve as wellness advocates within their regions, helping to promote a culture of well-being, resilience, and the values of OHW throughout the Department. They will serve as champions and liaisons between the OHW and staff. Social Services Supervisor Donald Williams Jr., who served as a GC Officer (Member at Large) and Social Services Practitioner Michael Spivey, who also served as a GC Officer (Co-Chair), will co-lead the Ambassador Program. They will combine their expertise and

DONALD WILLIAMS JR., CSD SOCIAL SERVICES SUPERVISOR

shared dedication to staff well-being inspiring and guiding the Ambassadors in a shared goal with OHW.

The focus will be on increasing DPSS staff awareness of self-care resources, encouraging participation in OHW activities, and identifying the unique wellness wants and needs of DPSS employees, This co-leadership model reflects the program’s commitment to teamwork and shared vision. Donald and Michael’s partnership sets the stage for an inspiring movement that encourages staff to embrace wellness, take on leadership roles, and contribute to a healthier, more bonded workplace.

MICHAEL SPIVEY, ASD SOCIAL SERVICES PRACTITIONER

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HUES OF HEALTH

In celebration of National Recess at Work Month (June), the Office of Health and Wellness launched its first department-wide wellness campaign: Hues of Health. The campaign aimed to promote mindfulness and creativity during breaks. The Hues of Health campaign highlighted the mental health benefits of art and self-care, inviting staff to submit illustrations reflecting their personal interpretations of health and wellness.

L eft to right: Peer Support Coach Rebekah Taylor, Assistant Director Children’s Services Bridgette Hernandez, SSP II Ema Jean Batongmalaque, Eligibility Services Clerk Serenity Pitts, Eligibility Technician William “Alex” Pena, DPSS Director Charity Douglas, Deputy Director OHW Lonetta Richardson Bryan.

Outstanding submissions from Ema Jean Batongmalaque, “ When Life Hands You Dirt ,” Serenity Pitts, “ Wellness ,” and William “Alex” Peña, “ Self-Love” were featured on the OHW SharePoint site, with each receiving a commendation award. The campaign successfully fostered a sense of community, creativity, and well-being across the Department, showcasing how art can inspire healthier and happier workplaces.

When Life Hands You Dirt

Self-Love

Wellness

The selected Hues of Health art pieces are showcased in the DPSS Executive Suite Christian Room, 6

SHAREPOINT UPGRADE The Office of Health and Wellness completed a major rehaul of their SharePoint site, transforming it into a visually engaging and powerful tool to support the well-being of staff. The impetus of this transformation is the introduction of the OHW Thrive! Plant, a vibrant Monstera plant, where each colorful leaf represents one of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness. These dimensions encompass emotional, environmental, intellectual, physical, financial, social, occupational, and spiritual wellness and are rooted in evidence-based research and designed to enhance staff well-being by promoting balance, reducing burnout, and empowering individual and holistic growth. The Eight Dimensions of Wellness are essential for building resilience and creating a thriving, positive workplace culture, serving as a framework for nurturing every aspect of well-being.

ENVIRONMENTAL Respecting and preserving the natural environment, promoting sustainability, and creating spaces that support physical and emotional well-being. SOCIAL Building and maintaining meaningful connections with diverse individuals and communities, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

PHYSICAL Fostering healthy habits and caring for one’s body through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate rest.

EMOTIONAL Nurturing self-awareness, coping with stress effectively,

INTELLECTUAL Engaging in lifelong learning, critical thinking, and creative activities to stimulate

and maintaining healthy relationships to support emotional well-being,

mental growth and cognitive function.

SPIRITUAL Cultivating a sense of purpose and meaning in life, exploring personal beliefs and values, and connecting with a greater sense of purpose or higher power.

OCCUPATIONAL Finding fulfillment and satisfaction in one’s work or activities, maintaining a healthy balance, and pursuing professional development.

FINANCIAL Managing finances responsibly, planning for the future, and maintaining a sense of security and stability.

Each leaf of the OHW Thrive! Plant functions as an interactive button that links to a garden of carefully curated resources, making it easier for staff to explore wellness practices specific to each dimension. This interactive design reflects OHW’s ongoing commitment to supporting staff in an accessible and impactful way.

The success of the site is largely attributed to the exceptional collaboration with DPSS Staff Development, Computer-Based Training Officer, Ana Knox, whose dedication and expertise were crucial to the upgrade. The response from staff has been overwhelmingly positive, culminating in OHW being honored as the first SharePoint Online Quarter Winner in November 2024. This award is not only a significant achievement for OHW but also a testament to the power of collaboration and the meaningful connections the resources are fostering with staff. The upgraded site has proven to be an invaluable tool, highlighting the critical role of self-care and well-being as essential components of daily work and overall success.

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IMPACT OF OHW IN 2024

2024 was a milestone year for the Office of Health and Wellness—a year defined by connection, creativity, and transformation. While the numbers speak to the scale of our impact, the true power of OHW lies in the individual stories of resilience, support, and community that emerge from every interaction. Through our diverse programming, OHW touched thousands of lives across all divisions, fostering wellness as a shared value, rather than a distant goal. Relationships flourished at Recess , where one in four employees reconnected with their playful side through arts and crafts, board games, outdoor activities, music, and snacks. These moments of shared joy offered staff a much-needed reprieve and helped strengthen bonds, build trust, and nurture morale.

Our Group Coaching sessions provided focused spaces to process wellness topics and enhance team cohesiveness. These sessions built a foundation for alignment, trust, and connection within teams, reminding staff that they are never alone in their pursuit of balance and support. OHW also prioritized accessibility and individualized care. In confidential One on One Coaching sessions, staff had a safe space to explore personal challenges, build resilience, and develop strategies to thrive both professionally and personally. These 20-minute sessions, available in-person, virtually, or by phone, were instrumental in providing tailored support and actionable solutions.

The reach of OHW extended further through Wellness Presentations , which engaged over 2,000 participants and offered practical tools for self-care, work-life integration, and stress relief. These events reinforced the message that prioritizing wellness is a critical step toward a thriving, resilient workforce. In moments of crisis, OHW provided steadfast support. Post-Critical Incident Responses were delivered to individual staff members and regional offices to assist during challenging times. With OHW’s guidance, staff were able to process and recover from some of the most difficult situations faced in the field of social services. These efforts

were designed to alleviate the stressors of critical incidents and secondary trauma, offering a trusted resource to support employee well-being.

OHW continued to be Outstationed every two weeks at Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center . In-the-moment, hands-on support was available and delivered to Harmony Haven staff. The outstation program emphasized commitment to accessible, consistent, and compassionate services. OHW Virtual Townhall events featured health and wellness experts from the university, medical, and mental health sectors. These voluntary events fostered a culture of learning, engagement, and growth, drawing participation from over a thousand staff members.

Weekly Wellness Wednesday communications emphasized the value of health and wellness while reinforcing the department’s commitment to staff well-being. These weekly publications featured curated tips, articles, and local resources designed to inspire and empower employees on their unique wellness journeys. Pet Therapy was introduced through a new partnership with the Riverside University Health System’s Pet Assisting in Recovery (RUHS-PAIR) program. Certified pet therapy dog, Lili, facilitated human-animal interactions that promoted healing, provided calming benefits, and supported overall well-being.

See them all here

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CONNECTION-GROWTH-RESILIENCE Through every initiative, OHW emphasized the importance of balance, connection, and support. Whether it was fostering creativity through the Hues of Health Wellness Campaign or creating safe spaces for staff to process challenges, OHW became a beacon of hope and inspiration. This year wasn’t just about numbers—it was about transformation. Moments of connection blossomed into lasting bonds, resilience was fortified, and collaboration thrived. Across every event, coaching session, and partnership, OHW reminded staff that wellness is not a destination but a shared journey—one we navigate together. As we reflect on the year, we’re proud to say that through innovation, compassion, and unwavering commitment, OHW didn’t just impact lives--it uplifted an entire community within DPSS.

In 2024, OHW proudly served 4,545 individuals.

Group Coaching 52

Virtual Townhalls

Outstation Harmony Haven

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Staff

Townhalls

Days

1,150 attendees

8 sessions

189 staff

One-on-One Coaching confidential sessions 95

Post Critical Incident Response

Wellness Presentations

21 35

Presentations

69 staff Responses

2,007 attendees

Recess

1,171 staff 34 events

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OHW IS DEDICATED TO GOING BEYOND EXPECTATIONS, ENRICHING WORKPLACE CULTURE, PROMOTING HOLISTIC WELL-BEING, AND INSPIRING THOUSANDS OF EMPLOYEES TO THRIVE !

THRIVING! IN 2025

The Office of Health and Wellness is primed to make 2025 a year of growth, innovation, and connection. Building on the success of the previous year, OHW will continue to elevate staff well-being by highlighting the Eight Dimensions of Wellness through intentional campaigns that engage, inspire, and empower Riverside County DPSS employees.

In January, OHW will launch Well Talk , a podcast designed to provide practical insights and tools to support employees on their wellness journey. Featuring both internal and external guests, this engaging platform will bring wellness conversations directly to staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and self-compassion. Additionally, OHW will broaden its reach by forming dynamic partnerships with other Riverside County departments, creating collaborative opportunities to deliver innovative programs and services that enhance the well-being of the entire DPSS team.

Hear it Here

The year ahead promises a dynamic array of projects that emphasize creativity, connection, and community. Through interactive events and accessible resources, OHW aims to meet employees where they are, making wellness an integral part of both professional and personal well-being. Dedicated to exceeding expectations, OHW is committed to enriching workplace culture, promoting holistic wellness, and empowering thousands of employees to Thrive! With 2025 on the horizon, OHW is poised to continue transforming wellness into a shared journey—uplifting individuals and strengthening the entire DPSS workforce.

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CONTACT US

951-791-CARE

OHW@rivco.org

4060 County Cir Dr, 2nd Floor Riverside, CA 92503

rivcounty.sharepoint.com/ sites/OfficeOfHealthAndWellness2

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SharePoint

TOGETHER, WE ARE WELLNESS