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44 Pallet C e nt ral • Ma rch -Ap r il 2 0 25 Measuring Success And Staying Accountable Tracking the success of wellness initiatives is as vital as implementing them. Retention rates, employee surveys, and regular performance metrics are among the tools companies use to gauge effectiveness. For example, Mike at Grand Traverse Pallet highlights the success of their personal time policy: "Allowing employees 40 hours of paid personal time each year has reduced turnover significantly." Paired with better benefits and regular bonuses, these policies have reshaped workplace culture. Feedback loops are essential for companies like SMIco, where Chuck Burke emphasizes the importance of follow-through. "Every concern raised by employees is addressed. Whether it's a safety issue or a policy suggestion, we ensure there's resolution," Chuck explains. Similarly, NasaPack employs suggestion boxes and team meetings to keep the dialogue with its employees open. Beyond surveys, companies are also finding creative ways to gauge employee satisfaction. For instance, morning meetings at Embalajes MAHUSA include brief check-ins to discuss workplace needs and goals. As Alexander, a leader at the company, explains, "ese small moments allow us to connect and address issues before they grow." Another example comes from Hay Creek Pallet, where team members are actively involved in brainstorming sessions to improve work conditions. "We encourage every employee to share their thoughts," says Jeremy at Hay Creek Pallet. "e more involved they feel, the more engaged they are." Empowering Through Wellness Programs Programs that engage employees in wellness outside of work are also gaining traction. Southern Packaging LLC, led by Brad Tuminello, recently added a third week of vacation after ten years of service, coupled with a four-and-a-half-day workweek. "ese changes acknowledge our employees' long-term contributions and help them recharge," Brad shares. Group activities such as fitness challenges, team hikes, and charity runs have emerged as popular ways to build camaraderie while promoting health. Companies like Hay Creek Pallet have found that employees are more engaged when initiatives are collaborative. "Wellness challenges create a sense of friendly competition and teamwork," says Jeremy at Hay Creek. At Viking Engineering, the focus on team-based wellness initiatives extends to safety and skills training. "Our CPR and First Aid certification programs are practical ways to invest in employees' well-being," Erin Pearson notes. ese programs not only boost confidence but also foster a culture of care. In addition to physical wellness, financial literacy programs are gaining momentum. One company introduced workshops to help employees manage their finances and reduce stress. is approach not only boosts financial well-being but also creates a more stable and productive workforce. Some companies, like NasaPack, are going further by incorporating mental health resources such as access to licensed counselors and mindfulness training. Jaime Zorrilla emphasizes, "Mental health support is a cornerstone of our wellness strategy. It's about creating a safe space for employees to thrive." Inspiration From Success Stories Simple, consistent practices can have a significant impact. Alexander of Embalajes MAHUSA says that "[e]very weekend, we share breakfast as a team. It's a small gesture, but it's created a strong sense of community." is routine fosters connections and encourages open communication among colleagues. At NasaPack, the chaplain program has become a cornerstone of their wellness efforts. Jaime Zorrilla explains how employees have embraced the resource: "It's not just about work. It's about recognizing that everyone has challenges, and we want to be there to support them." Grand Traverse Pallet has seen positive results from their expanded personal time policy. "e ability to take paid time for personal needs has been a game-changer for our employees. It's about trust and understanding that life happens beyond work," Mike shares. Such policies demonstrate a commitment to employee autonomy and well-being. Other companies have focused on fostering cultural inclusion as a part of their wellness programs. For example, introducing multilingual signage and training materials has made workplaces more inclusive for employees from diverse backgrounds, strengthening both morale and communication. Creating A Culture Of Communication Employee feedback isn't just encouraged at these companies; it's acted upon. At NasaPack, suggestion boxes and regular WELLNESS CONT.

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