RHODE ISLAND OFFICIALLY DESIGNATED AS FIRST “WELL STATE” IN THE NATION

WELCOA bestows prestigious award

WE DID IT!
           
After much hard work by so many people, Rhode Island in April received the designation as the first “Well State” in the nation.  The award was presented to the Worksite Wellness Council of Rhode Island (WWCRI) and Governor Donald L. Carcieri by Stephen LaCagnin, Chairman of the Board of the Wellness Councils of America (WELCOA).

Rhode Island earned the first Well State designation because 20% of the state’s workforce is employed by “Well Workplaces.” There are 67 businesses and organizations in Rhode Island, including the Rhode Island State Government’s Get Fit, Rhode Island! initiative, that achieved WELCOA’s Well Workplace status. These organizations represent 101,373 employees.

Governor Carcieri accepted the award on behalf of Rhode Island citizens at a State House ceremony. “Businesses across the state are recognizing that health and wellness programs based in the workplace benefit everyone, including employers, their employees and their families,” Governor Carcieri said. This important designation demonstrates that Rhode Island has a strong commitment to improving the health of its residents.”

LaCagnin stated, “Corporate and government leaders across the nation are realizing that the time has come for wellness in the workplace.  Rhode Island certainly has and you are leading the way. I congratulate you on this great accomplishment – the first Well State!”

Companies that participate in worksite wellness activities report improvements in the overall health of the workforce, a boost in morale, reductions in absenteeism, and positive financial outcomes. 

The types of health programs companies conducted in the workplace include: Personal Health Assessments, weight management programs, various health screenings, smoking cessation programs, stress workshops, nutrition and cholesterol awareness programs, flue shot clinics, walking programs and more.

The WWCRI is a non-profit organization formed in 1997 to improve the health and safety of working Rhode Islanders by promoting and supporting worksite health promotion initiatives.
           
The Wellness Councils of America, based in Omaha, Nebraska, is a national non-profit membership organization that is dedicated to promoting healthier lifestyles for all Americans, especially through health promotion initiatives at the worksite.