 Thursday, April 23, was Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day. It was so wonderful to see children in the office, eating snacks and talking about their academic goals and the sports they do to stay healthy. They wrote their career aspirations on a white board: zoologist, welder, teacher, musician. It was also an opportunity for kids to see how their parents are productive and important members of our agency.
Having a job is one of the basic social and physical determinants of health. According to the CDC, access to job opportunities, living wages and healthy worksites impacts a wide range of health and quality-of-life outcomes. It was uplifting to watch our kids experience the positive aspects of work and the spirit of public service. I felt fortunate to see the talent we have to look forward to in the future.
This year’s Take Our Sons and Daughters to Work Day theme is #MPOWR. Education and work empowers us all to have healthy and meaningful lives. Thank you for your service to the Oregon Health Authority, and for the opportunity to meet your children.
Thank you,
Lynne
To your health: Governor Brown has declared April Alcohol Awareness Month in Oregon. Alcohol abuse can be very damaging and have lifelong effects for adolescents whose brains are still developing. But according our Addictions and Mental Health division, most Oregon teens choose not to drink. If you have teens in your life, talk to them about the risks of underage drinking and encourage them to make positive choices. For tools, visit www.oregonmore.org.
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