REI Oklahoma has been granted Oklahoma Certified Healthy Business status, and given a Certificate of Merit. This award is a result of REI Oklahoma’s commitment to employee health and wellness.
Established as a program to support the goals of the Shape Your Future campaign, the Oklahoma Certified Healthy Business program recognizes businesses that make a positive impact on the health of their employees. Lori Stern, REI Oklahoma Human Resources Specialist, has spearheaded the initiative since its inception.
In much the same way that REI Oklahoma fosters a healthy economy within the state, multiple programs have been implemented to promote wellness among its staff. A health screening revealed dangerous cholesterol levels for one employee and as a result of the employee’s participation in a diet and exercise program, the cholesterol level was reduced by over 100 points. Collectively, REI Oklahoma employees have shed more than 400 pounds through various weight loss programs. Other activities and events which have made a positive contribution to employee health have included health/wellness challenges, and health fairs.
“To continue leading effective economic development programs within the great state of Oklahoma, we ourselves must establish and maintain healthy business environment goals,” says Scott Dewald, REI Oklahoma President & CEO. “We are pleased to be recognized as leaders in the area of health advocacy, and we are extremely grateful for Lori’s leadership.”
Headquartered in Durant, REI Oklahoma collaborates closely with local lenders to help businesses thrive by zeroing in on relationship-building and person-to-person outreach, helping entrepreneurs navigate through business lending resources and programs. For women-owned businesses and minority-owned enterprises, REI Women’s Business Center and the Native American Business Centers offer unique training, as well as technical assistance and access to capital. Additionally, REI’s Down Payment Assistance provides support to potential homeowners. Learn more at www.reiok.org. Follow REI Oklahoma on Facebook and Twitter.