As the weather starts to warm up, it’s time to get outdoors and get moving. If you need a little nudge, join this year’s Walk this May team step challenge!  During the month of May, teams will record their weekly step counts. Team step totals and team rankings will be shared weekly to keep the competitive juices flowing.

To register, send an email to linda.feiden@drake.edu by Monday, April 27, with your list of 4 to 8 team members, team name, and who will be your team captain.  Grab your shoes and let’s get going.

— Linda Feiden, Human Resources

Join Drake’s Corporate Games team.  This annual company-based competition for organizations in central Iowa runs from May 30 through July 31.  With over 20 events to choose from, Des Moines Corporate Games (DMCG) is a great way to meet new people and have fun.

Events range from team-based to individual and competitive to recreational. Try everything from pickleball, golf, and sand volleyball to a fitness walk, 5K run, and bags.  You may participate in as many events as you want.

All in-person activities will be held in the evenings and on weekends and are free (except golf cart rental). ALL Drake faculty and staff, student employees, interns, and retirees are invited and encouraged to join Drake’s team.

To participate in this year’s Des Moines Corporate Games, please send an email to linda.feiden@drake.edu for registration instructions.

— Linda Feiden, Human Resources

Employee and Family Resources (EFR) has created a new and improved version of their mobile app to make it easier for Drake employees and their household members to access resources and save content most relevant to them.

New features include:

• The DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21).  This is an assessment designed to measure levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Keep tabs on your mental well-being and receive resource recommendations tailored to help you in the areas you need it most.
• Benefit Recommendations.  Answer a series of questions regarding mental health and life circumstances and be guided to the benefits that can help you most.

How to access the app:

Step 1: Create a profile on the EFR online portal. You can use your personal or work email address.

Step 2: Download the EFR app from the Apple App Store or Google Play and then sign in.

The use of EFR services—including the app—is completely confidential.

In addition to the app, check out EFR’s CONNECT page for access to their podcasts, blog, and on-demand webinars. More details about EFR benefits for Drake employees can be found on the Drake HR Employee Assistance Program webpage.

— Linda Feiden, Human Resources