UWRA Retirement Coaching

 

UWRA has launched a Webinar series as a complement to the other activities surrounding our retirement planning initiative. Also as part of this whole effort UWRA is exploring the feasibility of a Retirement Coaching Program proposed by UWRA Board member Bernard Hyman. 

 

The retirement coaching service, as currently envisioned, would be offered, free of charge to current and former United Way staff who request it.  Such a coach would not provide legal, accounting, financial, medical or psychological services but would provide general information and guidance in response to individual questions and concerns. A pool of trained coaches (program to be designed), drawn from interested UWRA members, would be developed who would assist individuals planning for or who are already retired. The service would be available through phone or email; and all conversations between coach and the person requesting the service would be held in strictest confidence. At the conclusion of the service all would be asked to provide a voluntary evaluation of its value and determine if the desired help was given and concerns adequately dealt with. 

 

While much has been written about the need to plan for retirement, as early in one's working life as possible, research shows that an alarming number of people are not adequately prepared for a quality retirement: 

 

According to a 2010 survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute, 35 percent of Americans—up from 30 percent just a year earlier—felt financially ill prepared for retirement. 

Almost four in 10 Americans are not currently saving for retirement, and many Americans are not financially or emotionally prepared for retirement (2009 Charles Schwab Survey conducted by Kelton Research)

 

So while there are a lot of resources available, much of which are no doubt valuable; it often leaves the average person with information overload and confusion.  This is the need we are looking to address – providing a trained advocate/coach (i.e., a neutral third party) who can assist people in navigating the journey to retirement and beyond. A person who can help guide individuals to appropriate information and resources, raise questions and be a good listener.  

 

Your feedback is valued: 1) as we determine whether or not to proceed with this program, and 2) if there is sufficient interest, we want to incorporate your ideas into the shaping of it. Please click here for a short Retirement Coaching survey.  

 

Through our booklets, webinars, coaching etc. we hope to increase the number of United Ways employees who are able to provide for their income and other needs during decades in retirement.  In doing so, it will allow individuals and their families to live longer, healthier lives with greater enjoyment and service to others.