CalPERS Benefits Education Events (CBEEs) are free opportunities for members to deepen their understanding of retirement and health benefits — no matter where they are in their career.
Through interactive classes covering every phase of a CalPERS member’s journey, participants gain the tools and confidence needed to plan for their retirement future.
At the recent Monterey CBEE, we spoke with several CalPERS team members about the value of attending these events in-person. Here’s what they had to say.
Manny Mendoza, Customer Education & Outreach Team
“We want you to make sure that you’re prepared,” said Manny Mendoza. “You can learn about all that here at one of the CBEEs.”
Mendoza emphasized the importance of retirement preparation, noting that some members may not fully appreciate how crucial it is to understand every aspect of their financial future. In addition to being familiar with their CalPERS pension, members should also be knowledgeable about Social Security and other potential income sources, he said.
He explained that CBEEs are designed to provide members with a comprehensive overview of their options, helping them see the bigger picture and make informed decisions. By attending in person, members can get answers to questions they might not have thought to ask, ensuring they are fully prepared for retirement and beyond.
Arryan Cannon, Member Account Management Team
“There’re things I’ve learned by coming to these events from other (CalPERS) areas,” said Arryan Cannon.
Cannon highlighted the value of ongoing education — even for seasoned public employees — that can be found at a CBEE.
He referenced his own continual discoveries as proof and noted members often don’t realize the full range of benefits available to them, especially those working for schools and counties.
Looking at the bigger picture, Cannon emphasized that attending a CBEE ensures members don’t miss important details, empowering them to make informed choices not only at retirement, but throughout their careers.
Sarah Moore, Customer Education & Outreach Team
“I’m overwhelmed with all the things that they can learn,” said Sarah Moore.
Moore pointed out that retirement planning involves many interconnected decisions, including how changes in members’ careers or personal lives might affect their benefits.
Members often have questions about eligibility, benefit formulas, and health coverage, and the in-person CBEE format allows members to receive answers and gain clarity on these overlapping issues.
Jonathan Altamirano, Customer Education & Outreach Team
“It’s one thing going to the computers and a website, versus having somebody that you can talk to in person and having the opportunity to clarify those little details,” said Jonathan Altamirano. “It’s eye opening for the members.”
Altamirano provides on-the-ground support to our Bay Area members at the San Jose Regional Office. He said that members can be confused about a number of topics that get cleared up at CBEES.
Altamirano finds that face-to-face conversations are often eye opening for attendees, as CalPERS team members can walk them through the process and answer specific questions.
The personal touch and immediate feedback, he said, make a significant difference in members’ understanding and confidence.
When’s the Next CBEE?
CalPERS hosts CBEEs (both in person and virtually) multiple times throughout the year. Check out our calendar for upcoming events.