WorkWell

WorkWell, which began in 1995, is a program that has been developed for all Western New England College employees encouraging them to take an active part in their own health. There are 2 main components to the program; health education and physical activity. Participation in the program is voluntary. Incentives are available to people who participate in the physical activity for 4 months consecutively. Release time from work is provided to attend educational programs and for exercise time.

In the recent years the educational piece has not been available and many people have ceased participating in the program. So after careful review we have looked at this program again, dusted it off, made some changes, and are ready to reintroduce WorkWell.

 

The following is an outline of how the exercise/physical activity component works:

  1. Go to Health Services, complete a short health form (completed the first time only) and sign up. We have eliminated the fitness testing that was previously used to determine whether you could engage in an exercise program.
  2. If you complete the 4 month exercise program you will return to Health Services provide your signature attesting to the completion of the program, be given your incentive and be able to sign up for the next exercise session. We have eliminated the need for recording exercises in the folders located in the wellness room thereby eliminating the process of turning your folder in to Sarah and you will not need to go to another department to obtain your incentive.

 

When can I sign up for the exercise Program?

The exercise sign ups and incentive collection will be completed in the first 2 weeks of January, May and September in Health Services.

 

What are the incentives?

1. ½ day release from work (with supervisor’s permission)

2. $40 gift certificate for the WNEC Bookstore

3. $40 gift certificate for Aramark

 

Is there any specific type of exercise required?

No specific type, but an exercise program should be planned, increase the heart rate and the  activity should be sustained over a minimum of 30 minutes. Examples might be walking, running, swimming, aerobics, dancing, weight lifting. etc.

 

How much exercise is required to be awarded the incentive?

The exercise participant must complete at least 30 minutes of exercise 3 times per week to be awarded the incentive.

 

If I am not recording my exercises how will you know whether I am entitled to receive my incentive?

Each employee is on their honor and their signature, after completion of the 4 months, attests that they have completed the program as stipulated.

 

What is the educational programming component?

Once or twice a semester a 45 – 60 minute program will be offered on a current, relevant, health topic during the work day. The program will be offered more than once so that all who wish may attend. Work release time is available so that employees may attend with permission of their immediate supervisor. Stay tuned for upcoming programs