Using sick leave to volunteer helps employees make a difference in our community
Updated April 20, 2026 This week, April 19–25, is National Volunteer Week and King County’s Employee Giving Program offers a unique way for employees to convert up to three instances of sick leave each year to volunteer in their community. The volunteer program allows all employees covered by the Coalition Labor Agreement with the King County Coalition of Unions, other collective bargaining units that have ratified this option, and all non-represented employees to use up to three instances of sick leave per year for volunteer service at a local school or participating Employee Giving Program nonprofit. “Volunteering is one way we stay… Read More
Finding hope and raising awareness during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
This September, as we recognize National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we are reminded that we can all provide hope and support to those who are struggling. Too many people experience suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress without the support and care they need. The COVID-19 pandemic added to our anxieties and challenges, putting further stress on people’s mental health and wellness. We know that every year thousands of individuals die by suicide, leaving behind their friends and family members suffering a tragic loss. When we lose someone to suicide, it has a deep and… Read More
Resources to help people at risk for suicide
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and an opportunity to highlight some of the resources and services available to support mental health and emotional well-being. “We know that every year thousands of individuals die by suicide, leaving behind their friends and family members suffering a tragic loss,” Chief People Officer Whitney Abrams said. “When we lose someone to suicide, it has a deep and profound effect on us.” One way we can help people who are struggling is to learn to identify the risk factors, recognize the warning signs, and know what… Read More
Executive Constantine proclaims National Payroll Week
King County Executive Dow Constantine is recognizing the dedication and expertise of King County’s payroll professionals by proclaiming Sept. 4 through Sept. 8, 2023 as National Payroll Week. “King County payroll professionals play a key role in maintaining the economic health of the County, in ensuring the economic security of families by carrying out diverse tasks such as processing paychecks, payments to child support, and tax withholding, reporting, and depositing,” Executive Constantine said in the Proclamation. Read the full Proclamation below.
Celebrating the team behind your pay
As we celebrate National Payroll Week, we’re highlighting the work of the Central Payroll Operations Team which ensure that all employees are paid accurately and on time every pay period. Central Payroll Operations works hard to ensure paychecks are received in a timely, smooth manner, with no hiccups or inconveniences to employees. The team also handles payroll taxes and provides employees with annual W-2 forms. “Payroll seems like it would be really simple: department timekeepers report time and time off, Human Resources reports changes to positions or pay rates and employees magically get a… Read More
King County launches new effort to prevent youth suicide, invites you to join
Crossposted from Cultivating Connections September is coming around the corner, and we are preparing for September Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. The Department of Community and Human Services partnered with Rescue Agency to develop a countywide Youth Suicide Prevention Campaign to help prevent youth suicide during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September, including a Suicide Prevention Week of Action that will take place Sept. 10 – 16, 2023. Read more.
Massive pumps at West Point Treatment Plant get a tune up
Crossposted from Clean Water Stories The Intermediate Pump Station pumps that push wastewater through West Point Treatment Plant are massive and old. This three-pump trio is from the era of crimped hair and flannel shirts and Pearl Jam on a cassette tape. In constant service since 1993, they are now among the last of their kind on the West Coast. Even as pump designs (and hairstyles) have moved on, King County Wastewater Treatment Division (WTD) is making these reliable ones last another 20 years. Last summer, the first pump came out of its… Read More
Sign up for onsite employee flu shot clinics
Getting a flu shot will help to protect you, your loved ones, and your work colleagues from getting sick with the flu this season. King County is hosting onsite flu clinics where employees can get vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu shot every year, ideally by the end of October. Onsite flu clinics start Sept. 18. Learn more about onsite flu clinics and how to register here. In addition to onsite flu clinics at county worksites, employees can also get vaccinated at pharmacies and healthcare clinics. All… Read More
Executive, employees accept Employer Support Freedom Award in Washington D.C.
King County was honored at a ceremony in Washington D.C. with a 2023 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award in recognition of its support of National Guard and Reserve members. Only 15 recipients were selected for the award, which is the highest recognition given by the U.S. government to small and large private and public sector employers for their exceptional support of employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve. On hand to receive the award were King County Executive Dow Constantine, Chief People Officer Whitney Abrams, Metro Transit Operator Christopher Cappelletti… Read More
Discounts to 2023 Washington State Fair
King County employees can save on tickets to the Washington State Fair, Sept. 1-24. Click here for instructions on how to purchase your discount tickets. Once you log in to the Corporate Perks portal, your discount pricing will be unlocked. There is no need to enter an additional discount code. See all available discounts on the Employee Discount webpage.
Employee News 