Wellness Resource Guide
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Table of Contents

Gain Management's Support

Evaluate Availability of Resources

Conduct Employee Interest Surveys

Conduct Health Risk Appraisals

FORM AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Every department that implements a health promotion program would benefit by having an employee advisory committee. The formation of an advisory committee from the start of your program can provide valuable support and will become a part of your wellness team. This committee represents the feelings, opinions, and ideas of the department as a whole and symbolizes that the program belongs to the employees. Have enthusiastic, dedicated, outgoing and innovative people on your committee. The committee should be comprised of employees from all levels in your department. You need to decide how you are going to recruit members. When selecting members of your committee you could ask for volunteers or have upper management appoint members. The committee will have greater success if members volunteer rather than be appointed. You want employees that are interested in health promotion and supportive of your objectives. Take into consideration the motivation level of your employees, the size of your office, and time constraints when deciding which way to recruit committee members.

During your first meeting with the committee, provide an overview and some background that explains how the health promotion program got started in the department and the goals of the program. This should reveal the mission of the health promotion program that has been put in place and the relationship of your health promotion program with other departments and outside agencies. Some departments may be working in partnership with other departments or are receiving outside help or donations for their program. Also ask committee members what their concerns are. Members may have questions that they would like addressed.

Decide among committee members the term for serving on the committee. The committee needs to decide how the membership will be rotated. It is important to bring in new members after a period of time to generate fresh ideas and avoid burnout with other members. To facilitate program continuity, try to keep some previous members that have experience and know how the committee functions. It is also helpful to have meeting ground rules. Here are some suggested ground rules:

  1. Treat each other as equals.
  2. Every person has a right to be heard.
  3. Do not monopolize the discussion or interrupt when somebody else is talking.
  4. Recognize that sometimes it is necessary to compromise.
  5. Be on time for meetings.
Future sessions should address the goals and challenges that your department will face, and explore fresh and innovative ways to help overcome these barriers.
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