A web-based tool that offers comprehensive, one-stop access to family and caregiver resources is now available on the University of Oregon website.
The centralized portal provides a means for UO community members to discover and identify programs and resources currently available across the institution and the broader community to meet their needs.
“Our faculty, staff and students with caregiving responsibilities can find it difficult to juggle their personal obligations while pursuing their professional and educational goals,” said Jen Mirabile, senior HR programs coordinator. “Not knowing what’s available or where to look adds stress to the situation.”
UO has developed various programs and family-related resources for students and employees, which are managed by several different units and departments. Collectively, Associated Students of the University of Oregon, the Graduate School, Physical Education and Recreation, Human Resources and other departments offer programs designed to support UO families. These programs include Youth and Family Programs through PE and Recreation, Child and Family Center through Prevention Science Institute, ASUO’s Child Care Subsidy Program, Graduate School family resources and many more that are listed on the caregiver resources webpage.
“There are some great resources right here at UO that people are unaware of because family and childcare programs are not under one umbrella,” Mirabile said. “Centralizing resources in one place online will make these programs, services and resources more accessible whether you are a student, faculty member or staff.”
UO recently launched two new caregiving resources, the Care Provider Network and Shared Care Network, exclusively for the UO community in an effort to help faculty, staff and students meet caregiving needs while balancing school and work responsibilities.
The UO Care Provider Network connects members of the UO community who can provide care with UO families needing caregiving. Only those with a UO email address can access the network to either complete the registration form or to view the listing to connect with a care provider.
The UO Shared Care Network allows UO families to connect with other UO families seeking shared care arrangements. Through this list, UO families can work together to find creative options, identify solutions and establish mutually beneficial arrangements.
“We are hopeful that the new caregiver resources webpage and the caregiving networks will connect UO community members to new opportunities and help them manage their work-life balance,” Mirabile said.