Luzerne County Head Start continued its investment in the health and wellness of its workforce by hosting a staff retreat at Keystone College. 

The event brought together LCHS staff from all service areas for a day of rest and relaxation. Individuals from LCHS and Keystone led a range of activities focused on movement, mindfulness and creativity, giving participants tools to manage stress and center themselves physically and mentally.

Yoga, guided meditation and Zumba classes were available. Staff were also found outdoors exploring the college’s Woodlands Campus. Others opted for activities like puzzles, board games and card games indoors. Creative workshops were another highlight of the day, including chunky hand knitting, crocheting, friendship bracelet making and a garden gnome craft.

Thanks to the partnership with Keystone, staff also had opportunities to participate in fencing, beekeeping and more. Geisinger Health Plan, another partner committed to helping LCHS achieve its staff wellness goals, provided hand grip and bone density screenings.

Staff are the heart of the Head Start mission. LCHS recognizes that being in a helping profession, while rewarding and fulfilling, can demand so much from the heart and result in stress, burnout and vicarious trauma. Opportunities like the Staff Wellness Day help ensure LCHS staff can show up to work as their best selves and provide the community’s children and families with the compassion and care they deserve.

“Our children and families need to be well to do well — and the same is true for our staff. Staff wellness isn’t separate from work; it’s the foundation that allows us to bring our best to it,” said LCHS Executive Director Beth White. “Prioritizing well being is not about stepping away from responsibility, it’s about sustaining the energy and passion needed to carry it forward. When we take care of our staff, we reduce stress and burnout, making space for creativity, resilience and meaningful impact. Our team is changing the trajectory of children and families’ lives, and they matter deeply to this organization. That’s why we’re committed to supporting their wellness in every way we can.”

By Brooke Williams, Community Advocate