As workplace wellness programs are becoming more widespread, Wolverine Human Services decided it would be a great idea to get with the trend and start a Step Program in the workplace. The goal of this program was to have happier and more productive employees. Employees are a valuable asset to the success of Wolverine, and we wanted to capitalize on this by improving their wellbeing and job satisfaction, as well as raising retention rates. At Wolverine, we recognize that the welfare of the employees has a direct impact on the success of the agency.

So why should you, as an employee, take advantage of this Step Program? Well, because every person has some sort of health risk to varying degrees–whether is unhealthy eating, lack of exercise or sleep, drinking, smoking, or even something genetic. Using the program can make positive change happen. Not only will you be more able to complete your job responsibilities, but you will have more energy and vigor to give your family and friends when you get home.

Wolverine’s Step program can help employees get healthier, even it that simply means learning how to reduce stress and muscle strain on the job. Sometimes all employees need is a little motivation to get the ball rolling, and the Wolverine step program might be it.

Wolverine started a pilot program a few months ago with the help and ideas from employee Ann Goss. The first challenge was offered to employees at our Vassar House program to see how employees would respond to the event. Employees were asked to form 5-person teams and join the American Heart Association tracker website. They were given pedometers, and then the challenge began.

As it turns out, the pilot program was so successful that other employees around the agency asked when it would be offered at their program. So, on August 1, 2015 we opened the Step Program Challenge to all 500 employees and are having the programs compete against each other for the most steps taken in 30 days. Not only does this build a sense of camaraderie with co-workers, but it offers employees the opportunity to join walking clubs or sports teams or even go to the gym. By interacting with co-workers, it gives employees the encouragement they need to be held accountable to their goals. Plus, they will be motivated by seeing other’s positive results and feel part of an important team.

So, to all the Wolverine Human Services employees: let’s go!! You can start walking your way to a healthier lifestyle today!!

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(Image taken from here)


Annet SchlosserAnnet Schlosser is the Vice President of Human Resources at Wolverine Human Services. She oversees the wellbeing of our 500 employees and supports our hard-working staff in providing quality care for our children and families. Annet is passionate about helping those in need, and enjoys using her skills to further the mission of “Helping Children to be Victors.”