Record-Setting Number of Iowa Companies Receive Well Workplace Distinction

Des Moines University Is First University in Country to Receive Platinum Wellness Award

DES MOINES, IA (09/14/2009)(readMedia)-- On October 1, the Wellness Council of Iowa (WCI) will bestow 13 Iowa companies with Well Workplace status. This is a record for the state of Iowa and demonstrates a continued expansion of public interest and commitment to health and wellbeing.

"The Wellness Council of Iowa is thrilled that organizations and companies are embracing their responsibility for maximizing the health and wellbeing of their employees," said Jenny Weber, executive director of WCI, the Iowa affiliate of the Wellness Council of America (WELCOA).

The Well Workplace award recognizes companies which have implemented and demonstrated measurable success in employee wellness programming. Areas of focus include smoking cessation, nutrition, physical fitness, self-care and stress management. WCI has been recognizing and fostering sustainable wellness in Iowa for more than 15 years. Awards are designated in bronze, silver, gold and platinum levels.

Des Moines University (DMU) will be recognized as the first university to ever receive a platinum level award, the highest distinction achievable. Principal Financial Group also earned platinum level status from WELCOA.

"It is evident that wellness and prevention have become significant parts of the overall organizational strategy at DMU and Principal," said Weber.

The following Iowa companies earned the gold level Well Workplace status and will be presented with awards on October 1:

CarePro Health Services

Cass County Health Systems

Cedar Falls Utilities (CFU)

Des Moines Water Works

Drake University

Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company

Mercy Medical – Des Moines

Pella Corporation

Rockwell Collins

United Clinical Laboratories

Vermeer Corporation

WCI is a non-profit, membership-driven organization based in Des Moines, Iowa. Serving more than 130 member companies, the Council's activities affect tens of thousands of Iowa workers and their associates. As a result of this year's recognition, nearly 1.4 percent of Iowa's entire population is now employed in a Well Workplace. This is nearly 2.4 percent of Iowa's total labor force.

"We hope others will adopt this vision and work to protect and enhance the well-being of each and every individual that is part of the fabric of their organization," said Weber.

A recognition banquet will be held October 1, 5-9 p.m., at the Hy-Vee Conference Center in West Des Moines, Iowa. To purchase tickets or get more information about WCI, visit www.wellnessiowa.org.