WANT TO STAY UP TO DATE ON WHAT'S GOING ON AT REACH?
Click on the link to the right to subscribe to our newsletter.
The REACH Foundation received a GOLD Level Healthy KC certification through the Greater Kansas City Chamber’s Healthy KC Workplace Wellness program. The semi-annual health and wellness certification program recognizes area organizations for innovation and excellence in promoting a culture of health in the workplace. Certifications range from Honorable Mention up to Platinum and are based on five pillars of health.
While the REACH team understood the importance of workplace wellness, it was the Chamber’s Workplace Wellness certification program that served as a catalyst for REACH to take its efforts to the next level. Prior to certification, REACH had begun incorporating engaging and fun workplace challenges and activities, such as a 30-day push up contest and healthy potluck lunches. In 2016, the Healthy KC certification program pushed us to take a more comprehensive look at our wellness practices. REACH now has an overall Wellness Policy that includes:
- Nutrition: ensuring healthy food/beverage option are available at all REACH events and meetings.
- Physical Activity: encouraging staff to use mealtimes and breaks for physical activity. Under the policy, walking or standing meetings are encouraged.
- Tobacco Free: prohibiting all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco, at the REACH office space.
The foundation’s Workplace Wellness Reimbursement policy allows employees to be reimbursed at 50% up to $500 each year for wellness-related activities and purchases, such as gym membership, running shoes, work out equipment and activity trackers. The foundation also supports a healthy work-life balance by providing paid maternity and parental leave in addition to team volunteer activities during work hours.
Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation acknowledged its staff weren’t immune from some of the stresses and other challenges presented by the pandemic, recognizing the effects on our bodies, minds and spirits. To maintain connectedness during this remote work period, staff joined in for a team 5k walk, a self-care gift basket exchange and a virtual happy hour. Despite our small staff size, REACH strives to be mighty in our efforts to encourage and practice healthy behaviors within our own organization.
