So how does it work? Employers invest and customize the onsite Wellness Coaching hours where, at no cost to the employee, employees can meet in-person with the Wellness Coach in a private and confidential space. Additionally, employees can access this service any other time by simply calling or texting their Wellness Coach. In turn, the Wellness Coach helps employees with transportation challenges, childcare barriers, navigating public assistance programs, professional coaching, and connecting to counseling. For example, an employee receiving a notice of utility disconnect creates a risk of major employment setback with the accrued costs to the employer in lost productivity from presenteeism, absenteeism, and the overall wellbeing of the employee as an integral part of the business team’s ability to operate.
Businesses create a flourishing environment to grow, because employees create value and a cohesive culture for success.
In the first eight months of the newly established program, FERN proudly serves nine area employers, has aided over 80 employees seeking support delivering over 350 services or referrals. Based on increased retention, reducing turnover cost has resulted in an average 400% Return on Investment for participating employers. FERN has not done this alone, as community collaboration is imperative to serve employee needs. FERN is grateful to work with more than 80 community organizations to leverage established resources and create community wellness awareness through recent wellness initiatives, social media topic interviews, and participation in local committees that address socio-economic and racial disparities.
