Health and Wellness Benefits

West Ohio Conference Benefits Office

The 5 Pillars of Wellness

At the West Ohio Conference, we are committed to supporting the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. The Benefits Office is dedicated to helping our clergy and staff flourish in life and ministry through a holistic and intentional approach to well-being.  Our wellness programs are built on five foundational pillars, each designed to promote balance, build resilience, and empower you on your personal and professional journey.

1. Health / Physical Wellness

Your physical health is the foundation of overall well-being. Through the HealthFlex program and the innovative Personify Wellness platform, participants gain access to comprehensive care, tools for prevention, and support for chronic conditions and everyday health.

Key Benefits:

  • HealthFlex medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Personify Wellness incentives and preventive care resources
  • Access to telehealth, wellness coaching, and chronic condition support

2. Financial Wellness

A stable financial foundation enhances peace of mind and supports long-term well-being. We offer tools, education, and clergy-specific resources to help you plan, save, and protect your financial future.

Key Benefits:

  • Wespath retirement education, savings tools, and planning resources
  • COMPASS 403(b) Retirement Plan for active clergy
  • Financial wellness webinars and personalized coaching
  • Access to grants for both active and retired clergy
  • Income protection and welfare programs for active clergy
  • Retiree Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for eligible Medicare-age clergy and spouses
  • Resources for clergy housing allowance and post-retirement housing exclusion

3. Emotional Wellness

Mental and emotional health are vital to thriving in ministry and in life. Our confidential and professional services are designed to support clergy, staff, and family members in managing stress, grief, relationships, and overall mental well-being.

Key Benefits:

  • OhioHealth EAP: 6 free counseling sessions per year (for HealthFlex and non-HealthFlex participants)
  • Optum EAP: 8 free counseling sessions per year (HealthFlex participants only)
  • MDLIVE Behavioral Health and Talkspace Coaching (HealthFlex participants only)

These resources are accessible, confidential, and available when you need them most.


4. Spiritual Wellness

As a faith-centered organization, we recognize that spiritual well-being is essential to your calling. We offer meaningful opportunities and support to nurture your relationship with God, sustain your sense of purpose, and encourage renewal.

Key Benefits:

  • Spiritual formation retreats and reflective opportunities
  • Support for Sabbath practices and renewal leave
  • Resources for spiritual direction and ongoing discernment

5. Social / Community Wellness

Connection and belonging are core to a life of wellness. Through supportive communities, peer engagement, and shared experiences, we foster a culture of care and collaboration.

Key Benefits:

  • Clergy covenant groups and peer support networks
  • Conference-wide wellness initiatives and fellowship events
  • Resources to strengthen relationships in both ministry and personal life

We’re Here to Support You

The Benefits Office is committed to your whole-person wellness. Whether you’re navigating healthcare decisions, planning for retirement, seeking emotional support, or deepening your spiritual life, we are here to walk alongside you—every step of the way.

Grace Welch

Conference Benefits Officer & Director of HR

(380) 223-9310

gwelch@wocumc.org

Stacy Jefferson

Benefits/HR Specialist

(380) 223-9240

sjefferson@wocumc.org

Autumn Shelby

Benefits/HR Analyst

(380) 223-9532

ashelby@wocumc.org