Executive Director's September Blog

Fall is back. As I make plans to resume my morning commute into the office after many months of full-time telecommuting, it dawns on me that moving forward feels a lot like going back—back to before the pandemic when I went into our worksite regularly.

I started making a mental list of everything I’m looking forward to when we go back to the workplace. I miss seeing everyone on my team. We’ve been doing virtual celebrations, but I miss the in-person celebrations where food and conversation are the centerpiece! I’ve missed hearing directly from staff about their individual and family milestones. I can’t wait to resume my regular morning swim at the Embarcadero YMCA again, which helps me clear my head, ready me for the day ahead and make my commute special and worthwhile.

Mostly, I’m excited for our Safer Return Together to our worksite and office, because, ironically, going back is actually taking a step forward in our pandemic recovery. I know we’re back to indoor masking and we’re required to show proof of vaccination to go indoors at restaurants, gyms and other establishments that we love, which helps our local businesses to stay open and provide us with places to go and enjoy ourselves--that’s a better position than where we were last year at this same time.  

Fall is also Open Enrollment and Flu Vaccine season. In addition to getting your COVID-19 Vaccine, you can arrange to get your Influenza Vaccine now through your primary care physician or local pharmacy, and soon at locations provided by SFHSS—watch for the sign-up invitations in your email soon.

You should also be receiving your Open Enrollment packet from SFHSS in the mail later this month. We have some new plan options for you to choose from, so please review your options carefully against your needs. We are bringing back raffle prizes this year, and you will automatically be entered to win by registering for an eBenefits account, making your elections through eBenefits or participating in one of our Open Enrollment webinars. There are many ways you can be entered to win, so keep an eye out for our Open Enrollment emails that will have all details starting later this month.

Be well,
Abbie Yant