The American Heart Association is seeking companies and schools in Kentuckiana for recognition as Fit-Friendly Worksites. Employers going above and beyond to invest in the health of their employees are encouraged to apply for the recognition by Friday, April 1.

“The Fit-Friendly Worksites program is a free service and is intended to highlight those companies and schools that place an emphasis on employee health,” said Ashley Mason, Senior Heart Walk Director for the American Heart Association. “Studies show that a healthy work environment contributes to fewer sick days and lower insurance premiums.”

Currently there are 65 companies and schools in Kentuckiana who are recognized as Fit Friendly Worksites; with Baptist Healthcare System, Humana, NIBCO, Norton Healthcare, Schneider Electric and the University of Louisville holding Platinum status.

“Since inception of UofL’s employee wellness program, Get Healthy Now, in 2005, the American Heart Association has been instrumental in driving our year-over-year success,” said Patricia Benson, Assistant VP of Health, Wellness and Disease Management at the University of Louisville. “Through the strength of this valuable community partner, we have tapped multiple health resources and professionals to guide our workplace wellness efforts in building a sustainable health management program with measurable impact.”

Fit-Friendly Worksites are recognized for carrying out wellness activities such as a company walking program and routes, gym access, fitness programs, a tobacco-free campus or making sure healthy foods and beverages are in company meetings and vending machines.
Visit http://ffc.heart.org to learn more about recognition criteria and to complete the short online application. Fit-Friendly Worksites are part of the American Heart Association’s Healthy Living movement. For more information on this program, visit heart.org.