A nurse in unit 8D, an assistant director in Alumni Association, and a senior administrative assistant in clinical affairs are among the more than 500 employees who serve as MHealthy Champions.
In that role, they help support a culture of well-being and connection among co-workers. Applications to become an MHealthy Champion are being accepted through Aug. 31.
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“Champions are especially important as we continue to find ways to support our community’s health and stay connected regardless of where you’re working,” said Leola Hearing, project specialist for MHealthy. “If you are enthusiastic about health and well-being and like to motivate others, we encourage you to apply.”
Kaiti Archer, a registered nurse on 8D at the University Hospital, decided to become a Champion to help her front-line unit manage stress.
“Our unit, a mix of ICU and moderate-care-level patients, can be a stressful place,” Archer said. “I felt that I could use my role as an MHealthy Champion to promote healthy outlets for that stress and remind staff members to take care of themselves in all aspects of their life.”
Active, benefits-eligible employees working onsite, remote or a hybrid can apply. Champions serve a two-year term and spend approximately two hours per month on their duties, which include:
- Work with an MHealthy Wellness Coordinator to tailor activities to best fit the needs of co-workers.
- Help to achieve their unit or department’s health and well-being goals.
- Communicate to co-workers about MHealthy programs and resources.
- Encourage participation in well-being activities and foster connection in the work environment.
Archer decided to create a department recipe book to help encourage connection and promote wellness.
“I wanted a way for staff members to connect and share cultures with one another,” she said. “I asked staff members to contribute a recipe that is special to them but doesn’t necessarily have to be ‘healthy.’ Many staff members have expressed how much they’ve enjoyed making the recipes.”
Employees interested in becoming Champions should apply by Aug. 31. Prior to accepting the application, MHealthy will contact the candidate’s supervisor for approval. Email questions to mhealthy-champs@umich.edu.
