November 2001 Trust Talk

Communications Corner
This issue is full of information, much of which we wish was not necessary. However, we are recognizing the serious issues facing members during the trials we face as a nation, and within our state. In this issue, we’ll examine member benefits and what happens to them during layoff and wartime. Please contact us or visit our website if you have any questions.
Special features about handling stress and dealing with disaster are in this Trust Talk and available on our website, courtesy of Working Solutions Service. You’ll note with this piece that we’re now using our new Trust logo.

Help with Relationships, Stress and Tragedy
In late August, the Trust mailed to members’ homes a special Working Solutions offer. The mailer features free information about getting the most out of the relationships in life, including those with your partner, kids, coworkers, parents and pets.

The Benefits Trust, courtesy of Working Solutions Service, has posted information to help families cope following the events of September 11, 2001. While on the Trust website, members may also want to review the information that Working Solutions recently presented at the OCSEA convention on handling stress and layoffs.

If members need personal consultations, they may contact Working Solutions at 800-358-8515 or complete intake forms on the Working Solutions’ website after securely linking through the Trust’s website. This service is available for major concerns as well as everyday worries, and counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Information is also available by:
• Calling the automated Materials Request Line at 877-318-9400
• E-mailing their information to articles@wsi-or.com
• Faxing their information to 503-213-2201.

Members should remember to include the topic(s) of interest plus mailing information for delivery.

Working Solutions provides counseling, resources, referrals and educational materials to help members and their families meet the demands of life and work. The Trust provides Working Solutions Service to all Union-represented State employees upon their hire, at no cost to the employee.

Life Insurance Booklet-Certificates
If you are enrolled in this coverage, you already should have received updated basic life insurance/accidental death booklet-certificates, and updated supplemental life insurance booklet-certificates. If you have not received these important documents, contact Prudential at 800-778-3827.

With this last issue of 2001, the Trustees and Staff of the Benefits Trust wish you and yours safety, health and happiness in 2002.