Seminars Focus on More than Financials
As part of its WashU for Life Initiative, the Friedman Center for Aging, at the Institute for Public Health, with the support of the Washington University Department of Human Resources, has created a new program to encourage WashU staff and faculty to think about retirement and plan for their next move. “Your Next Move: Transitioning to the New Retirement” seminars were piloted in September, 2019 on both the Danforth and Medical Campuses.
WUSTL employees were invited to start thinking about their future by participating in the seminar led by Chris Frey, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, a counselor and educator with 35 years of experience. The seminar focused on the essential ingredients of a successful transition and fulfilling next chapter, acknowledging that there is much to think about beyond finances. The word “retirement” is used because there isn’t better language, but there is a better vision for all – The New Retirement.
“The Next Move initiative affirms that lifelong learning and meaningful engagement—with ourselves, others and the world—extends well beyond our “working” years to a new, “second adulthood.” There’s real joy in being part of a multi-pronged effort to encourage WashU employees to try on a new approach to retirement and unlock interests, talent and energy for the next stage of their lives.” – Steve Ehrlich, PhD, Coordinator for Learn@Work, Human Resources
At Next Move seminars, participants explore the essential ingredients of a “new retirement” – purpose, leisure, social, health & wellness, and financial security. They are given worksheets, tools and resources to continue exploring and implementing the concepts learned. As Chris Frey states, “It’s exciting to co-facilitate a seminar aimed at advance planning for a vibrant and engaged retirement. The participants step back into their daily lives with new ideas and new tools for navigating this vital and challenging stage of life, along with a more in-depth knowledge of the many valuable resources available to Washington University staff reflecting on the future.”
The Friedman Center for Aging intends to continue offering these seminars on a regular basis. All employees who would like to learn about the “new retirement” are encouraged to attend. Read more and register for the next seminar.
“I am most impacted by the feedback from seminar participants, who say that the seminar’s information and concrete tools are catalysts for reflection and creative planning as they prepare for what we have termed, ‘The New Retirement’. Advanced preparation, including access to the wide range of services available through Human Resources, offers the potential for a continued life of purpose, connection and even fun.”
– Chris Frey, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
In addition to the Next Move seminars, a new brown bag lunch has been launched by Danforth and Medical Campus Human Resources – Your Next Chapter: Conversations on Retirement and Beyond. This monthly series of brown-bag, peer-led discussions will continue to meet the fourth Tuesday of every month, alternating between the Medical and Danforth Campuses.
Part of the Institute for Public Health, the Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging works toward a global society where all older adults have maximum opportunity for health, security, and engagement. For more information, contact Center Manager, Natalie Galucia.