Employee wellness programs are essential for fostering a healthier, more engaged workforce. However, participation rates can vary widely depending on program design, incentives, and company culture. Understanding industry benchmarks and best practices can help organizations optimize their wellness initiatives for maximum impact.

Industry Benchmarks for Wellness Program Participation

Wellness program participation rates fluctuate based on the type of program, level of employer support, and the presence of incentives. Below are some general benchmarks:

Overall Participation:

• 30-50% for voluntary programs
• 60-80% when incentives (e.g., premium discounts, gift cards) are offered
• 90%+ when wellness programs are embedded into company culture

Health Screenings & Biometric Testing:

• 50-60% participation with incentives
• 30-40% participation without incentives

Health Risk Assessments (HRAs):

• 40-60% participation with incentives
• 20-40% participation without incentives

Wellness Challenges & Lifestyle Programs:

• 30-50% participation, with higher engagement in team-based challenges

Mental Health & Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs):

• 5-10% utilization for traditional EAPs
• 20-30% for proactive mental health programs with coaching and digital tools

Chronic Condition Management Programs:

• 10-20% participation, typically linked to medical necessity

Wisconsin-Specific Wellness Program Participation Data

Many Wisconsin organizations are making significant strides in employee wellness participation. Notably, several WCWI member organizations have achieved high engagement rates:

Well Wisconsin Program (State Employees):

• 36.7% of eligible state employees participated in 2022, showing a rebound from the pandemic's impact.

University System Participation:

• The Universities of Wisconsin system reported a 29.9% participation rate in the Well Wisconsin Program for 2024.
• Several institutions exceeded 38% participation, including:
• • UW-Eau Claire
  • UW-Green Bay
  • UW Oshkosh
  • UW-Stevens Point
  • UW-Stout

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Utilization:

• Individual EAP utilization among Wisconsin state employees reached 5.9% in 2022, slightly above the national average of 5%.
• Total EAP engagement, including counseling and training sessions, reached 21%.

These figures demonstrate that while Wisconsin organizations are performing well, there is still room for growth. By implementing targeted strategies, such as enhancing program accessibility, offering meaningful incentives, and fostering a culture that prioritizes well-being, participation rates can continue to rise.

Key Factors That Influence Participation

To increase engagement in wellness programs, consider these critical factors:

1. Incentives Matter

Research shows that participation rates increase by 20-30% when financial or tangible rewards are offered. Effective incentives include health insurance discounts, gift cards, and extra PTO.

2. Leadership Support is Crucial

When executives and managers actively participate in wellness initiatives, employees are more likely to engage. Leadership endorsement fosters a culture of well-being.

3. Ease of Access Drives Engagement

Programs that are mobile-friendly and easily accessible during work hours tend to see higher participation rates. Employees should be able to engage in wellness activities without disrupting their workflow.

4. Company Culture Shapes Participation

Organizations that prioritize employee well-being in their mission and values see participation rates between 70-90%. A wellness-focused culture integrates health initiatives into daily work life.

5. Communication & Personalization Enhance Engagement

Regularly promoting wellness programs through multiple channels (email, intranet, posters, team meetings) helps sustain interest. Personalizing offerings based on employee preferences also boosts participation.

Industry Insights and Resources

For more information on industry benchmarks and strategies for improving participation, check out these expert sources:

• Corporate Wellness Magazine
• WellSteps
• Flimp Communications
• FitOn Health

By aligning your wellness initiatives with industry best practices and Wisconsin-specific insights, your organization can create a thriving workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being and engagement.

Is your organization looking to enhance its wellness program participation? Contact us today to learn how we can help! 

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Run Madtown Unveils the Ultimate Corporate Challenge: From Desk to Distance 

Run Madtown, Madison’s premier running event, is thrilled to announce the launch of "From Desk to Distance: Run Madtown Corporate Challenge," presented by the Wellness Council of Wisconsin. Scheduled for the weekend of May 24-25, 2025, this innovative initiative invites Wisconsin organizations to swap their office chairs for running shoes and take part in a challenge designed for everyone. The Corporate Challenge offers a premier opportunity for team building, wellness, and community involvement at one of Wisconsin’s most celebrated running events.

The Corporate Challenge welcomes participants of all fitness levels, from seasoned athletes to first timers. Companies across Wisconsin are encouraged to rally their employees to run, walk, roll, or volunteer in the event’s half marathon, 10K, or Twilight 5K. This focus on accessibility fosters a sense of achievement and camaraderie across the flock, ensuring everyone has a way to join in.

Beth Salinger, Race Director at Run Madtown, emphasizes the dual benefits of the Corporate Challenge: "Not only does this event offer an exceptional opportunity for organizations to focus on health and wellness initiatives, but it also serves as an ideal platform for team bonding outside the office. We are thrilled to partner with the Wellness Council of Wisconsin to bring this vision to life, showcasing the best of Madison while promoting a healthy, active lifestyle."

Participants in the Corporate Challenge will experience Madison’s scenic beauty, with courses winding around the iconic Capitol Building, past Camp Randall Stadium, and along the tranquil Lakeshore Path. The electric atmosphere of Run Madtown— complete with cheering spectators, live entertainment, and supportive volunteers— promises an unforgettable, flamingo-fabulous experience for all.

Beyond the race itself, the event fosters a spirit of community and wellness within participating companies. Teams will enjoy special perks such as branded team gear, custom training schedules, exclusive discounts, and bonus SWAG to make the event even more memorable. These incentives are designed to strengthen team bonds and encourage a long-term commitment to health and wellness—both in the office and on the racecourse!

“Run Madtown’s partnership with the Wellness Council of Wisconsin for the 2025 Corporate Challenge underscores a shared commitment to workplace and community wellness,” said Jessica Lehman, Director of Member Experience at the Wellness Council of Wisconsin. “With activities for all ability levels, this event brings businesses together for a weekend of fun, fitness, and camaraderie, setting the standard for innovative and inclusive community events.”

As Madison prepares for this exciting event, Run Madtown stays dedicated to creating experiences that inspire and engage. With a focus on wellness, community, and inclusivity, Run Madtown is more than just a weekend event; it’s a catalyst for positive change, fostering connections and healthy lifestyles across Wisconsin.

So, get ready to go from desk to distance and discover the transformative power of movement with Run Madtown and the Wellness Council of Wisconsin — because even the longest journey starts with a single step (or a graceful flamingo stride!).

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Exciting Community Partnership between the Wellness Council of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce

We are thrilled to announce a new community partnership between the Wellness Council of Wisconsin (WCWI) and the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce. This collaboration aims to promote employee wellbeing, foster a sense of belonging and inclusion, and create networking opportunities within our community.

Enhancing Employee Wellbeing Together

At WCWI, we are committed to improving the holistic wellbeing of employees across Wisconsin. Our partnership with the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce will allow us to expand our reach and offer resources and support tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ employees and their allies.

Fostering Belonging and Inclusion

Belonging and inclusion are essential for creating a supportive and empowering workplace environment. Through this partnership, we will work together to develop initiatives that promote LGBTQ+ inclusion, raise awareness about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) topics, and provide educational opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Building Stronger Communities through Networking and Support

Networking and community building are vital components of professional growth and development. We are excited to collaborate with the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce to create networking events, workshops, and opportunities that foster connections among our members, promote collaboration, and offer mutual support.

Educational Initiatives

Education is key to fostering understanding and creating change. Together with Wisconsin LGBT Chamber, we will develop and implement educational programs and workshops that address LGBTQ+ issues in the workplace, including LGBTQ+ healthcare disparities, cultural competency, and creating LGBTQ+ inclusive policies.

Join Us in Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

We invite you to join us in celebrating this exciting partnership and the positive impact it will have on our community. Together, we can create workplaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

Stay tuned for upcoming events, resources, and initiatives from WCWI and the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce as we embark on this collaborative journey towards creating more inclusive and supportive workplaces across Wisconsin.

Let's Make a Difference Together!

Thank you for your support, and we look forward to working together to make a difference in our community!

Warm Regards,

Wellness Council of Wisconsin Team

WCWI's Spring Learning Circle

A team of professionals from different parts of Wisconsin met recently at the Kacmarcik Center for Human Performance in Grafton. They learned about their CliftonStrengths, which are unique talents that can drive personal and professional development. The CliftonStrengths 34 profile helps people identify and use their strengths daily, enhance relationships, and boost teamwork. Todd Kraiss and Tracey Tradewell led exercises to help attendees realize their value within their teams and come up with individual development plans. By leveraging the domains of team strength - Executing, Influencing, Relationship Building, and Strategic Thinking - organizations can appreciate the valuable contributions each team member offers to the team’s success.

The Wellness Council of Wisconsin (WCWI) knows that companies that focus on employee growth enhance their well-being. Businesses value strengths such as achiever, woo, developer, ideation, positivity, and activator in their employees. These strengths contribute to business success. When workplaces provide ample growth opportunities, development, and support, individuals thrive.

By acknowledging and nurturing the unique strengths of each team member, organizations can cultivate a conducive environment for personal and professional growth. To do this, they need to understand what makes each team member unique and foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture that encourages continuous development. The CliftonStrengths assessment is valuable in offering insights into personal talents and strengths. By embracing and harnessing these strengths, individuals can optimize their potential, improve their relationships, and significantly contribute to their team's success. When companies provide opportunities for growth, learning, and support, individuals are more likely to thrive and make meaningful contributions to team success.

In conclusion, by utilizing tools like the CliftonStrengths assessment and fostering a culture of growth and development, organizations can unleash their teams' full potential while enhancing the well-being and success of each team member. WCWI appreciates the organizations that participated in the recent Learning Circle workshop and looks forward to supporting their personal and professional growth through WCWI's 2024 Learning Agenda.

-- WCWI Team

A Powerful Partnership: Advocating for Employee Mental Wellbeing

In an exciting development for mental health advocacy in Wisconsin, Mental Health America Lakeshore and the Wellness Council of Wisconsin (WCWI) have recently formed a powerful partnership. This collaborative effort aims to address the needs of employees and their families throughout the state, providing vital resources, support, and education to improve mental well-being in both communities and workplaces. By uniting leaders, decision-makers, and employers, this partnership seeks to make a positive impact on the mental health of individuals and foster healthier work environments.

Promoting Mental Health

The new alliance between Mental Health America Lakeshore and WCWI signifies a significant step forward in advancing mental health initiatives across Wisconsin. Recognizing that mental well-being is a collective responsibility, the partnership emphasizes the importance of intention and courage in prioritizing mental health. By leveraging their combined expertise and resources, both organizations aim to create a more supportive and understanding environment for those struggling with mental health issues.

Resources and Education:

A key aspect of this partnership is the provision of essential resources and educational opportunities. Mental Health America Lakeshore and WCWI intend to equip individuals and workplaces with the knowledge and tools necessary to foster positive mental health practices. From mental health workshops and training programs to access to informational materials and support networks, the partnership aims to empower individuals and organizations alike.

Community Impact:

By working together with employers, Mental Health America Lakeshore and WCWI seek to bring about meaningful change in communities throughout Wisconsin. They recognize that a mentally healthy workforce is not only crucial for individual well-being but also contributes to the overall productivity and success of organizations. By prioritizing mental health, this partnership envisions a future where workplaces become safe and supportive spaces that champion employee well-being.

The collaboration between Mental Health America Lakeshore and the Wellness Council of Wisconsin represents a powerful commitment to improving mental health in Wisconsin. Through shared advocacy, resources, and education, they aim to create a lasting impact on individuals, families, and workplaces. As the importance of mental well-being continues to gain recognition, this partnership serves as a shining example of collective effort, inspiring other organizations, and communities to take action. Together, we can create a more compassionate and understanding society, where mental health is a priority for all.

-- WCWI Team

Last week, the WCWI Community and Metro Milwaukee SHRM members gathered for an impactful discussion on mental health for HR professionals. During the session, Mental Health America-Lakeshore and NAMI Southeast Wisconsin, WCWI's community partners, shared insights on the business case for implementing workplace policies, procedures, and initiatives to support employees and their families' mental health. One of the policies discussed was related to returning to work after a suicide attempt. This is a growing concern in organizations across Wisconsin, and as wellbeing professionals, it's our responsibility to act on this urgent call for support.

Attendees had the opportunity to connect with Wisconsin organizations like the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Rogers Behavioral Health, The Real Good Life, Vesta Senior Network, and Employee Resource Center. They shared ideas and resources for workplace wellbeing strategies, further amplifying the importance of prioritizing mental health in the workplace.

The discussion also emphasized the importance of creating a culture of psychological safety in the workplace. This means that employees should feel comfortable speaking up about their mental health concerns without fear of stigma or retaliation. As HR professionals, we play a vital role in creating this culture by fostering open communication and destigmatizing mental health issues.

Another key takeaway from the discussion was the need for training and education around mental health for HR professionals. This includes learning about the signs and symptoms of mental health issues, as well as how to provide support and resources to employees who may be struggling. By equipping ourselves with this knowledge, we can better serve our employees and create a more supportive and inclusive workplace.

Overall, the mental health discussion was a valuable opportunity for HR professionals to come together and learn about the importance of prioritizing mental health in the workplace. As we continue to navigate the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, it's more important than ever to prioritize the wellbeing of our employees and create a workplace culture that supports mental health.

-- WCWI Team