When employees feel their workplace has a strong culture of health, they tend to be happier, less stressed and more likely to take positive steps to improve their well-being, according to a recent study by Aon Hewitt, the National Business Group on Health and The Futures Company. Now, imagine the benefit if that perception were expanded to their families. That’s what San Antonio-based Security Service Federal Credit Union (SSFCU) is counting on with the revamping of its award-winning health and wellness program.
In the new SSFCU Total Wellbeing program, more than 1,700 SSFCU employees and their families are eligible to participate in an individualized, comprehensive life balance program at no cost…one that takes into account their physical, financial and emotional health. Benefits include tools, resources and rewards to help them achieve their physical goals; reduced rates and fees on select financial products; confidential advising for help navigating personal challenges; concierge services and legal and financial help. Everything is accessible from one, easy to use online platform and the program is being marketed extensively to employees.
“At Security Service, we are deeply committed to having happy, healthy employees…and that includes having a good life-work balance and strong financial footing,” says Jim Laffoon, president and chief executive officer for SSFCU. “I am
thrilled that we are embarking on this initiative that is laying the foundation for a healthier work environment. We are making significant investments providing meaningful and relevant products and services for our employees and their families.”
And it’s working. More people are taking part in the benefits than ever before.
“One of the most popular features of our new program is our support of involvement in community health and fitness events,” says Tom Martin, senior vice president for SSFCU. “We encourage and pay for employee participation in local, community events.
In San Antonio, for example, we sponsored an astounding 223 employees and their families in the Blacklight Run,” he adds. “There’s literally something for everyone –from zombie runs to boat races.”
Studies show that employers like SSFCU are beginning to take longer-term and more holistic approaches to their benefits programs, according to the Wills Health Care Reform Survey for 2014. Almost one-third of companies interviewed were planning to expand wellness programs, with another 29 percent planning to do so in the future.
About Security Service Federal Credit Union
Security Service Federal Credit Union offers competitive, affordable financial products and services designed to meet the needs of its members. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, Security Service is an industry-leading financial institution with $8 billion in assets and 70 locations in Texas, Colorado and Utah. The credit union is among the top 10 credit unions in the nation. Security Service strives to be America’s best credit union and provides the true benefits of credit union membership with financial services of the highest quality and value. Learn more at www.ssfcu.org or call 1-800-52-SSFCU.