SAN ANTONIO - With its new “CU Fit” program, all Security Service FCU employees are eligible to receive a health club membership, packed with rewards-based activity incentives and online support, and SSFCU is picking up the tab.
The $4.6-billion CU has partnered with Spectrum Athletic Clubs to provide this program for its employees in Texas and Colorado. Since the program began mid-May, more than 90% of the CU’s 1,300 employees have signed up. “Folks want to take advantage of it,” said John Worthington, SVP-corporate communications.
SSFCU declined to reveal the cost but CEO David Reynolds said it was a “significant investment” in the CU’s employees and their families.
All employee memberships incorporate Virgin HeathMiles’ Interactive, a web-based health rewards program that encourages employees to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Similar to Frequent Flyer programs, HealthMiles members earn “miles” by exercising, tracking results and improving key body metrics such as blood pressure, body fat, weight and BMI. Those “miles” can then be redeemed for gift cards from more than 50 U.S. retailers. Employees can track their personal progress, while the credit union receives data showing the achievements of the staff.
The program was an initiative from SSFCU’s HR department and was quickly approved by upper management and the board, Worthington said, adding there are several reasons the program is being offered.
“We’re as good as the people that work here,” he said. “We want to help them have a productive and healthy lifestyle. Another benefit is that employees will not be out sick as much, and will be more productive.”
It is also being used as a recruitment tool. “Employees feel good and know the company cares about them,” he said. Worthington said the program has sparked more interest toward exercise among staff, including employees wearing pedometers during the day to track their steps.
For More Information
* www.ssfcu.org;
* www.spectrumclubs.com
* www.virginhealthmiles.com(c) 2008 The Credit Union Journal and SourceMedia, Inc. All Rights Reserved.http://www.cujournal.com http://www.sourcemedia.com
