October 19, 2023

Community Hospital was one of 27 Nebraska employers receiving the 2023 Governor’s Wellness Award last week for offering evidence-based worksite wellness programs. At a recognition event, Andie Stang, Community Hospital Wellness Program Specialist and Jennifer Hunter, one of Community Hospital’s wellness ambassadors, received the Grower Award from Gov. Jim Pillen. The Governor and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Timothy Tesmer, congratulated award recipients and highlighted the importance of workplace wellness.

The Governor's Wellness Award recognizes employers who have built a culture of wellness in their workplace," said Gov. Pillen. “An organization's people are its greatest assets, and it makes good business sense for companies to encourage good nutrition and healthy lifestyles through workplace programs. These programs encourage team members to take steps toward a healthier lifestyle.”

“Prioritizing health has many benefits. It strengthens the immune system and reduces stress and the likelihood of developing many chronic diseases. I commend this year's winners for investing in the physical and mental health of their teammates,” said Dr. Tesmer.

Award-winning initiatives include wellness challenges, wellness plans with goals that have measurable results, as well as programs that reward employees for safety milestones and many other successful efforts.

The Governor's Wellness Award began in 2008. Since then, more than 500 organizations and companies have been recognized for dedicating resources and time to wellness efforts in the workplace. Each applicant provided information in the areas of leadership, data collection, intervention strategies, policy/environment support, and evaluation of outcomes.

The Governor’s Wellness Award has three categories: The Sower Award, The Grower Award and The Harvester Award. Community Hospital received The Sower Award in 2014 and The Grower Award in 2017 and 2020.