MBGH recently launched an initiative to encourage and assist Memphis-area employers in creating cultures of health within their organizations. This initiative is in support of Healthy Shelby (the most recent initiative of Memphis Fast Forward focused on better health, better care and lower costs as strategies for economic vitality). MBGH is working closely with Memphis Tomorrow, the association of chief executive officers of Memphis’ largest enterprises, to build CEO adoption and spread the initiative as well as the Healthy Memphis Common Table..

The vision is for Memphis employers to become national leaders in community-wide adoption of employer-based cultures of health. These cultures of health will support:

• Health, productivity and balance in the lives of employees and their families
• Financial success and competitiveness of the organization
• Economic development in Memphis

To assist with this endeavor, MBGH is providing toolkits to employers throughout Shelby County. The toolkits outline a five-step approach to creating a culture of health and provide detailed information for implementing one or more of the following national recognition programs that can serve as a road map:

• American Heart Association’s Fit-Friendly Company
• CEO Cancer Gold Standard
• National Business Group on Health’s Best Employers For Healthy Living
• Wellness Councils of America (WELCOA) Well Workplace Awards

Having a road map is critical to knowing what steps to take in creating a culture of health. The road map also helps to create accountability within the organization. A visible commitment has been made to a specific approach to creating a culture of health and senior leadership and employees will hold the organization accountable for achieving the goals.

MBGH also encourages employers to commit to participating in the Healthy Memphis Common Table’s Million Calorie Reduction Match initiative. This initiative complements the national recognition programs and participation will help employers achieve national recognition.

To learn more about creating a culture of wellness at your organization and to get a copy of the toolkit, contact Cristie Travis at ctravis@memphisbusinessgroup.org or (901) 767-9585 x234.