Ithaca College

Today's society is becoming increasingly complex and our employees face a variety of difficult personal situations. Usually we are able to resolve these problems effectively on our own. However, at times these difficult situations affect personal happiness, family relations, performance at work, and physical health. Outside assistance during these times can be helpful.

For this reason, we are very pleased to let you know that effective June 1, 2003, a valuable benefit, an Employee Assistance Program, or EAP, will be made available to all benefit-eligible employees. In addition, EAP services will be available to eligible dependents and anyone living in the immediate household of benefit-eligible employees. There is no cost to employees for this benefit, and it is not necessary to be enrolled in one of the College's medical plans to take advantage of the services provided by the EAP.

Effective June 1, 2003, Ithaca College has contracted with a national provider of EAP services, Employee Network, Inc. Beginning on June 1, you can access your EAP by calling toll free 1-800-EAP-CALL (1-800-327-2255) 24 hours a day. The EAP is a confidential service.

EAP can provide professional counseling for marital and family concerns, substance and alcohol abuse, stress, anxiety, depression, and other issues that commonly occur throughout life. Referrals for legal, financial, childcare, and eldercare issues are also available through this new service.

Orientation sessions have been scheduled to familiarize you with this new benefit. On June 4, sessions will be in room 112, Center for Natural Sciences, at noon, 1:30, 3:00, 5:00, and 11:00 pm. In addition, sessions will be held on June 9 in Emerson Suites B and C at 8:00 am and 9:00 am. All orientation sessions are scheduled for approximately 30 minutes. Please call the benefits department at ext. 4-3245 to reserve a seat at one of the meetings.

As a preferred employer, the College strongly supports the program and encourages you to learn more about it over the next couple months. If you are unable to attend one of the sessions, please watch for additional sessions to be held during the summer and at the beginning of the fall semester. Please note that EAP services are available as of June 1, 2003, whether or not you have attended an orientation session.

Please call the benefits department with any questions.

Contributed by Martha A. Turnbull, Director of Human Resources, and Cheryl Freer, Director of Benefits