APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) – A local municipality has been recognized as one of ‘America’s Healthiest Companies.’
The City of Appleton has received a gold-level ‘Well Workplace Award’ distinction from the Wellness Council of America.
City Spokesman Chad Doran says it has to do with the wide variety of wellness initiatives they offer.
“That overall focus on complete wellness, not just from the standpoint of physical wellness, but also eating healthy, mental health, and all of those kinds of things as well. Everything from fun get-together type things to learning opportunities where we bring in speakers for employees to learn about health and wellness opportunities.”
Doran explains why the city puts an emphasis on employee wellness.
“When employees are healthy and they feel good, they’re more productive. It helps them enjoy their job more. That goes a long way with employee satisfaction.”
He says they are looking to add new wellness initiatives in the coming months in an effort to better attract young professionals, who he says look often look for certain offerings.
“Flexible work schedules, being able to work from home, you hear lots of private employers offering their employees the opportunity to go work out in the middle of the work day.”
Appleton does not currently offer those, but Doran says they could consider adding those perks, noting it would require a balance of keeping employees healthy and productive.
The ‘Workplace Wellness Award’ is in effect for 36 months (from when it was awarded in late September).
