Looking Back to
Accelerate Forward
Celebrating 20 Years
2005 was a momentous year for caregivers in Washington state.
Through a dynamic partnership between the newly-formed caregivers’ union, SEIU 775, caregivers’ employers and the state of Washington, caregivers achieved access to healthcare coverage.
This was a vital turning point for caregivers. Employer-provided health benefits are often seen as a crucial component of a professional career; it was the beginning of no longer being an invisible workforce.
It’s also the origin story of SEIU 775 Benefits Group.
First formed to implement caregivers’ coverage, the Benefits Group has grown to provide a full suite of caregiver benefits. With its strong partnerships with the caregivers’ union, employers and the state, we are at the nexus of elevating the caregiving profession and solving complex workplace challenges.
“From its inception, the Benefits Group has had a spirit of innovation and confidence that has led us to envision and implement life-changing benefits for caregivers,” says Merissa Clyde, Chief Executive Officer. “Our partners and staff have shaped the future of caregiving that we believe both caregivers and those they care for deserve.”
“As we look ahead to the future, we’re committed to harnessing the power of our history and continue to make bold strides to elevate caregiving.”
– Merissa Clyde, Chief Executive Officer
Our many milestones
among the last 2 decades include:
“When you have the professional benefits like we have acquired over the last 20 years, working as a caregiver becomes a real career choice to support you and your family.”
– Melissah W., caregiver, Seattle with son, Max
The holistic and synergistic nature of these benefits has had a profound impact on the lives of caregivers.
Longtime caregiver, Melissah W. of Seattle, has spoken about the relief she felt knowing healthcare coverage was there for her when she had to quit her job to become her son’s primary caregiver. The tangible impact of professional benefits changed not only how she sees herself as a caregiver but also how caregivers as a profession are viewed.
While we are honored by our state’s leading rankings in our support for direct care workers and the outcomes of our long-term care system for clients, its ultimately seeing caregivers like Melissah and their families thrive that grounds our ongoing commitment to this work.
As we look to the next 20 years and beyond, we’re ready to work hand-in-hand with our partners to continue elevating caregiving to an equitable and respected healthcare profession of choice.
