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An increasing number of employees in the "Sandwich Generation" are looking for benefits to help them manage the demands of caring for parents and children alike. A recent nationwide survey by the Pew Research Center found that nearly half of respondents in their 40s and 50s have a living parent and are either raising a young child or supporting a grown one. "There's an emerging recognition of the impact of caregiver stress on working parents' ability to be productive at home and at work," says David Lissy, CEO of Bright Horizons, a provider of dependent back-up care services. "Particularly as families wait longer to have children, there's more at stake in their careers and they're pulled in many directions, dealing with the realities of their aging parents." On average, access to Bright Horizons allowed employees to work six days during the past six months - productive time that otherwise would have been lost - and nearly 70% of these workers used the service for adult care. Care.com, another provider of backup care services for employees, saw a three-fold increase last year in the number of clients that added senior care planning. IRobot, Inc. chose Care.com as an employee benefit because "we value our employees and want to support them in managing the demands on their personal lives," says benefits analyst Cathy Blanchard. Since adding the service, iRobot has seen a 15% month-to -month increase in using the program, which has boosted productivity by reducing costs from care-related absences and distractions. If you'd like to learn more about offering day care for adults and children as an employee benefit, just give us a call.

More and more, people are vacationing in their own backyards. If you have turned yours into a “staycation” hot spot, here are some safety tips to consider to help keep your oasis fun and free of danger. The Pool The pool can be a refreshing way to get some relief from the hot sun. But it can also be dangerous. Get your pool swim-ready by understanding some of the most common ways accidents occur, and then learning more about proper swimming pool safety and maintenance to help prevent them: Unsupervised access or swimming, either by lack of close supervision or by failing to properly secure the pool to prevent entry. As a pool owner, you are responsible for making sure that access is restricted and people cannot enter pool areas unattended. Injury by diving or jumping improperly, or from water around the pool or deck area that may cause someone to slip and fall. Defective or broken spa or swimming pool components. Drains are often a dangerous pool part that can cause circulation entrapment if not properly covered. Faulty pool equipment and old pool lighting can also cause electrical shock. Prevent swimming pool accidents before they occur. Learn more about swimming pool safety. The Grill During warmer months, you might enjoy having a backyard barbecue. But according to the latest statistics from the National Fire Protection Association, gas and charcoal grills have been involved in an average of 8,800 home and outside fires per year. Some of the main causes of grilling fires are: Placing the grill too close to combustibles, such as siding or an overhang. Failure to keep the grill clean. Grease or fat buildup can catch and spread fire quickly. A leak or break in the grill’s gas hose. Leaving equipment unattended. Misuse of material or product, including using incorrect starter fluids. Cook safely outdoors this summer by reading our grilling safety tips. Trampolines Trampolines can be fun for kids, but according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, they are the cause of nearly 100,000 injuries each year.  Avoid being a statistic: Limit the number of jumpers to one at a time. Supervision is needed for children at all times. Remove trampoline ladders after use to prevent unsupervised access by young children. Anchor the trampoline and enclosure to the ground by using a trampoline anchor kit. Playsets Playsets can be enjoyed by children of all ages, but damaged or weather-worn playsets can cause accidents. Stay safe by: Supervising children. Regularly checking for sturdiness, rusty bolts and wood rot, and making necessary repairs. Ensuring playsets do not have openings between pieces that could trap a child’s head or neck. Placing playsets securely on level ground and on wood chips or other soft materials to cushion falls and help prevent injuries. Fire Pits Warm nights are the perfect time to roast marshmallows. But out-of-control fires can cause injury. Be smart: Place the fire pit in a safe spot away from your home, backyard deck or low-hanging tree branches. Always require adult supervision around the fire pit while it is in use and until it has cooled off. Never leave the fire unattended. Use sand to fully extinguish the fire. Let the coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container. Lawn mowers During the spring and summer months, lawn mowers can easily cause injury. Follow these tips for safety: Read the mower’s manual, heed safety and operating instructions and learn the controls. Do not allow children to ride as passengers on a lawn mower, and be sure to keep children out of the yard while mowing. Clean up toys and other objects, such as rocks, from the yard to help prevent injuries from flying objects. Never leave a running mower unattended. Never operate the mower in an enclosed place where carbon monoxide can accumulate. Never unclog or work on a lawn mower while the engine is on or when the spark plug is connected. Wear non-slip shoes (no open toes or heels), long pants and hearing and eye protection. Grilling Fires: http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/outdoors/grilling Trampolines: https://www.cpsc.gov//PageFiles/137868/085%20Trampoline%20Safety.pdf

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Monte Vista Christian School to donate portions of proceeds from event Watsonville >> The Monte Vista Christian School performing arts department is putting on a Disney-themed concert to raise the spirits of children with cancer as well as funds for Jacob's Heart. The Watsonville-based private school's show Friday at the Mello Center for the Performing Arts, 250 E. Beach St. in Watsonville, will feature a number of songs from the Disney repertoire with a strong focus on the latest animated movie, "Frozen." Proceeds from the concert will go to Jacob's Heart, the Watsonville-based nonprofit that helps children with cancer and their families. "Since the concern is basically for the children (at Jacob's Heart), we're going to make it a Disney-themed concert," said Tony Dehner, director of vocal arts at Monte Vista. It's the first time Monte Vista has organized a concert fundraiser, according to Dehner. The idea was sparked from a conversation Dehner had with Watsonville Police Chief Manny Solano. The two spoke at a dinner event in November to celebrate Solano's 18-year-old son, who attends Monte Vista and sings in the school's choir, making it into the California regional honor choir. "We're Facebook buddies so he had been following the various stories through my wife's posting of my updates," Solano said, referencing his own battle with cancer. Solano publicly revealed his cancer diagnosis in August and took a three-month leave of absence from the police department to focus on treatment. During the conversation, Solano talked about his cancer battle and Jacob's Heart, which Solano has been a strong advocate and supporter of, came up in the discussion. Eventually Dehner suggested a fundraiser for the nonprofit and, soon, the concert was conceived. "It's just been a great opportunity to bring people together," Solano said. Though the school hosts a spring concert each year, it has traditionally taken place at the high school's auditorium. The decision to change venues to the Mello Center was prompted in part because of the expected number of attendees. The concert will feature two sections. The first half will focus on popular and classic songs and a second half will focus on Disney songs. Songs from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" movies are in the first part of the program as well as a song by Led Zeppelin. The Disney portion of the show will feature 20 characters from the franchise, all in costume, Dehner said. "I'm pretty sure we're going to sell out," he said. Children from Jacob's Heart and their families are expected to attend the show, free of charge, Dehner said. About 170 Monte Vista students will take part in the performance, including three choirs, the vocal ensemble, the jazz band, the orchestra, the high school band, the dance team and the handbell choir. "The guests will be treated to really quality and incredible music and singing that is right here in our own backyard," Solano said. All tickets are $10. For details and ticket reservations, call 831-728-2711. What: Monte Vista Christian School hosting a concert fundraiser for Jacob's Heart When: 7:30 p.m., Friday 5/16 Where: Mello Center for Performing Arts, 250 E. Beach St. in Watsonville Detail: Call 831-728-2711. Content provided by http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/watsonville/ci_25755193/watsonville-school-hosts-fundraiser-jacobs-heart

31st Annual Mother’s Day Run for Shelter Pajaro Valley Shelter Services Benefit Fundraiser Where: Ramsay Park, 1301 Main Street, Watsonville When: Sunday May 10, 2015 First race starts at 7:45 am – see race times below Online Race Registration:  http://tinyurl.com/oepnnoh Or call: 831 728-5649 x107 Download 2015_Walk-Run_Registration RACE INFORMATION Registration: Race day registration and bib pick-up starts at 7:00 AM, Sunday, May 10th 2015.   Course closes at 10:15. Bibs are not transferable. Registration fees are non-transferable & non-refundable. For online registration go to Fees:   Registration Form required for EACH participant. 10K Run & 5K Run/Walk – $35 for individuals (1 T-shirt)  Registrations after Thursday, May 7, 2014: $45 10K Run & 5K Run/Walk – $115 per family of four, max. 2 adults Registrations after Thursday, May 7, 2015: $125 1K Kid’s Fun Run – $10 per child under 12 (no T-shirt) With T-shirt: $20  Registrations after Thursday, May 7, 2015 add $5 Race Start Times: 1K Kid’s Fun Run @ 7:45am 5K Walk @ 8:00am 5K Run @ 8:00am 10K Run @ 8:45am COURSE CLOSES AT 10:00 am Course:   The course is certified: computerized time results will be announced & on the web site All runs and walks start and end at Ramsay Park.  Run and walk courses are different this year.  Course maps available at www.pvshelter.org Features:   Event T-shirt included in the fee (except Kid’s Fun Run); T-SHIRTS AVAILABLE FOR FIRST 600 RUNNERS WHO REGISTER; Roses for the moms; Goody bags with goodies; Refreshments and water; music Awards:  10K Run & 5K Run/Walk – Medals for 1st, 2nd, 3rd places, male/female per 5-year age division; plus gift certs for the overall male and female place first placers in 10K and 5K. 1K Kid’s Fun Run – all youth receive accomplishment medals, 3-year age divisions. Kids’ Awards 8:30-8:45. Want to contribute to PVSS- BECOME A SPONSOR! THE EVENT Entering its the 31ST consecutive year,  the Mother’s Day Run for Shelter will bring nearly 600 participants and 100 businesses, plus crowds of spectators together to raise a goal of $100,000 in support of services to homeless families in our community. Sponsors have the ability to market to almost 800 enthusiastic runners and supporters. “The Mother’s Day Run is one of the most prominent events in Watsonville!” SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AND BENEFITS Download sponsorship packet Sponsoring the race provides your business with the wonderful opportunity to reach new customers    and build a brand that promotes healthy living, outdoor fun and care for the community. Increase visibility and brand awareness through Mother’s Day Run for Shelter promotions. Employees will feel good about your company. Your business will further connect with community. It’s tax deductible! LAST YEAR’S RACE NUMBERS 540 registered runners plus a huge crowd of supporters cheering them on! 84 sponsors had their information shared with our community. Sponsors included Graniterock, Bay Federal Credit Union, S. Martinelli & Company and Union Bank Some racers travelled from 11 countries and 6 states The race raised $64,700 to support Pajaro Valley Shelter Services’ mission to end homelessness in our community. Pajaro Valley Shelter Services presents the 31st Annual Mother’s Day Run/Walk for Shelter on Sunday, May 10th at Ramsay Park in Watsonville and will include a 10K Run, 5K Run/Walk and a 1K Kids’ Fun Run. Goodies include t-shirts, roses for mothers, medals for winners, continental breakfast and a live DJ. This year, families with strollers will be allowed in the event.  For 31 years, the community of Watsonville has supported PV Shelter’s Mother’s Day Run to ensure the continuation of services for homeless families. The first race was held in 1984 and raised $8,000. with a small crowd in attendance. This year we expect over 600 people to help raise $100,000! This well-loved event can be enjoyed by attendees of all ages and skill levelS, from the competitive runners to the weekend joggers to families who want to walk together. Starting and ending in Ramsay Park, the race route is a beautiful trek around Watsonville’s slough trails. Start your Mother’s Day off by joining the community in supporting the end of homelessness for mothers, their children and families in South County.  The first race starts at 7:45 and the entire event ends at 10:00 am just in time to enjoy the rest of Mother’s Day. “The Mother’s Day Run has become a tradition. For many, there are three generations who do the run/walk together, and then go to brunch afterwards. It’s a great family tradition –to help end homelessness on Mother’s Day.” PVSS Executive Director, Kimberly Ferm Community Support PV Shelter has the recipe for successfully changing the lives of families experiencing homelessness, by giving them the tools to help themselves. The Mother’s Day Run for Shelter is PV Shelter’s biggest fundraising event. The Race/Walk is an opportunity for the community to partner with PV Shelter to raise funds, so we can continue our mission of promoting self-sufficiency and changing the lives of families experiencing homelessness. About Pajaro Valley Shelter Services: About Pajaro Valley Shelter Services: Since 1983, Pajaro Valley Shelter Services has helped women, children, and families end the causes and cycles of homelessness. PVSS currently serves and helps house 80 families annually, while they complete a program to overcome financial barriers, and develop goals, skills and attitudes necessary to move on to stable housing and improved personal and economic self-sufficiency. Serving Santa Cruz County and focusing on Watsonville and Pajaro Valley, PVSS owns and operates an Emergency Shelter (for women and children), a Shelter Annex (for families with males over the age of twelve), thirteen units of Transitional Housing, and four units of Long-Term Supportive Housing.  Participants learn how to manage money, obtain employment, housing, care for themselves and their children, and more. Source: http://pvshelter.org/