First Employee Resource Fair a Big Success at Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System

Eastern Oklahoma VA staff are breathing new life into the old saying “Teamwork makes the dream work” with the launch of the first Employee Resource Fair! The fair took place during the last two weeks of September and was held at nine different sites around the Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System. 

All employees were invited to take part in the carnival-themed information fair which offered the chance to view program specific info boards, pick up resources, and speak to representatives from each participating service. In addition, those who attended were greeted with snacks, photo ops, games, and the chance to take part in carnival themed dress for spirit week, in honor of the upcoming Employee Appreciation Picnics.

“Feedback has been amazing, and we are excited to announce that this will be an annual spring event in celebration of Whole Health Month and the launch of the All Employee Survey,” said Jenny Phipps, Education Program Specialist. 

The inspiration for the fair began as a partnership between Employee Whole Health and Education Service with the goal to connect with staff face-to-face, team-up with other services to deliver resources in support of employee well-being and enhance engagement across all sites.

With ideas and an outline for execution, the discussion moved from the Employee Whole Health Steering Committee into the planning phase under the Employee Engagement Workgroup where teams with a passion for staff wellness and insight such as: Employee Occupation Health, Human Resources, Employee Assistance Program, Healthy Living Program, AFGE Union, VA Employee Association, and Equal Employment Opportunity joined the conversation. 

The workgroup, which met weekly, grew quickly as more programs joined to also include Chaplain Service, Prevention and Management of Disruptive Behavior, and Systems Redesign.

“Watching everyone from various locations and programs work together, lift each other up, and support one another for the benefit of our entire workforce was so inspiring,” said Tiffani Mathews, Employee Whole Health Coordinator. “Each team participating brought with them invaluable insight. As part of the process, we were able to get to know more about each other’s areas and discuss future collaborations. Everyone involved truly showcased what effective teamwork should look like and how powerful it can be.”

Support and coordination from site managers, in addition to encouragement from executive leadership and supervisors, were vital in bringing this event to nine different sites in six days.

“This past week we had the privilege of witnessing countless smiles and receiving heartfelt thanks from employees across all locations who were able to visit the fair, “said Phipps. “A big thank you to everyone who helped plan and contribute to the event’s success. With a special shoutout to Whole Health, for partnering with the Education Department to make this happen. We appreciate the passion, time, and dedication our staff shows in providing the best care to our Veterans. We want to continue to bring meaningful resources to employees and look forward to receiving more feedback to assist us in making the next one even better!”