In honor of World Health Day, we’re shining a spotlight on three U Krewers who are part of our employee resource group (ERG) CARES (Chronic Illnesses, Awareness, Resources, Education and Support). Follow along as Jim, Layla, and Michele share their own and their loved ones’ journeys with chronic illnesses, and the support they received from CARES and UKG along the way.
CARES is one of nine ERGs at UKG. In addition to providing resources and support to employees, friends, and families affected by chronic health conditions, CARES provides U Krewers with a network and a welcoming place to connect during a difficult time.
Jim Stocker, Vice President, Global Services Operations
How has CARES supported you as a U Krewer?
UKG’s tagline is Our Purpose is People, and this shines through in all aspects of being a U Krewer, especially in terms of the wellness benefits and resources we receive. Ever since my initial diagnosis of prostate cancer in 2019, CARES has been with me every step of the way. I love the way the CARES team is so intentional about the way they support U Krewers.
I initially received a CARES package and a handwritten note of support from Ross Sabath, a CARES Co-chair. It was clear to me that I had a community of help and support during a scary and trying time. Through CARES I was paired with a Champion – a fellow U Krewer who had gone through the same journey, someone I could count on, confide in, and receive personal encouragement from.
What sets UKG apart as an employer?
When it came time to step back from my work to focus on healing, UKG offered me extended leave and additional support to help ease the professional part of my life, allowing me to fully concentrate on me.
On my return to work and cancer-free, I was asked to serve on the CARES executive committee before focusing on community outreach. This afforded me the opportunity to continue work I had started with the Movember Foundation, passionately raising awareness of men’s mental and physical health, including suicide prevention, and testicular and prostate cancer. UKG leadership actively supported my efforts, allowing me to raise awareness through team meetings, special events, and contributing to this valuable cause.
Why are ERGs important in the workplace?
CARES is just one of nine ERGs at UKG that offer similar levels of support and advocacy for many employee groups. Our ERGs are one part of a robust set of employee assistance benefits that help U Krewers through all sorts of personal challenges. These benefits are a valuable addition to the employee value proposition and I am convinced that they contribute to U Krewers joining or continuing to work at UKG. Personally, I see them adding to the culture that has been steadily building since UKG formed in 2020.
How would you describe the culture at UKG?
As a senior leader, I see our culture as an important aspect that helps us succeed. I have built my teams to embrace cognitive diversity, and to provide a psychologically safe space for everyone to feel comfortable, have a sense of belonging, and know that their contributions have a direct impact on the growth of UKG. I’m sure to many people work is just work and a means to an end, but to me, UKG has become an important part of my life and will continue to be for many years to come.
"I have built my teams to embrace cognitive diversity, and to provide a psychologically safe space for everyone to feel comfortable, have a sense of belonging, and know that their contributions have a direct impact on the growth of UKG."
Vice President, Global Services Operations
Layla Morales, Principal Business Program Manager
How has CARES supported you as a U Krewer?
When we brought my 91-year-old grandmother home for hospice, I reached out to the CARES team for resources that I might need. I was directed to a site full of opportunities and ideas. I applied for a CARES Champion – typically someone who has been there and knows what you are going through – and they served as my confidant and guide through the process. My grandmother also received a lovely care package specifically designed for dementia patients.
What is your favorite program or event that CARES helps to sponsor or support?
I would have to say the Champion program, which is peer-to-peer support, whether you are caring for a loved one with a chronic illness, have an illness yourself, or are dealing with loss. I found this support to be indispensable during a very difficult time.
What sets UKG apart as an employer?
UKG is the first company that I’ve worked for in the last 30 years that has seriously invested in employee resource groups and wellness groups. Having these available to us speaks to the humanity of the company and how they care for their work family.
What keeps you at UKG?
The people. I’ve never seen such a collection of talented, good people who care. UKG feels like a second family – one that I cherish and am protective of.
How would you describe the culture at UKG?
UKG has a culture of integrity and compassion. Doing the right thing, even when no one is looking. We genuinely care for one another and are always there to support each other.
Michele Blum, Senior Business Development Representative
How has CARES supported you as a U Krewer?
CARES supported me when I found out my husband was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2022. They delivered a care package for him to use during chemo treatments.
While my husband was going through his battle, I was paired with a CARES Champion who was also impacted by cancer to talk to and have honest conversations with. It’s a comfort just knowing there’s a support group I can always rely on.
What sets UKG apart as an employer?
Knowing how caring and supportive UKG has been during this time.
What keeps you at UKG?
Knowing that UKG supports many initiatives that bring people together, like CARES.
How would you describe the culture at UKG?
I have been working for UKG for the last 10 years. I love the culture, my coworkers, and my managers. Everyone is so caring and understanding and I’m proud to be a U Krewer.
- INTERESTED IN JOINING THE U KREW? EXPLORE CAREERS AT UKG.
- CARES IS ONE OF NINE ERGS AT UKG. READ OTHER STORIES FEATURING OUR EMPLOYEE RESOURCE GROUPS HERE.
