Support workplace well-being: Become an MHealthy Champion

Earlier this spring, Abi Borener, an MLB financial specialist and MHealthy Champion for LSA Finance, wanted to help encourage her coworkers to take care of themselves while working from home. She decided to launch a week of “MHealthy Habits Bingo.” 

“The ‘bingo’ card included things like sharing a laugh with someone, taking a walk, eating a healthy breakfast, or even just changing out of your pajamas,” said Borener. “We had about 12 participants and it was a fun way to stay connected and support my coworkers’ well-being during a difficult time.”

Now through Aug. 31, staff and faculty can apply to become an MHealthy Champion. More than 750 employees currently serve in this role, helping to support a culture of health among their coworkers and in their work area.

Champions serve a two-year term and spend approximately two hours per month on their duties:

• Work with an MHealthy Wellness Coordinator to tailor activities to fit the needs of their coworkers.
• Help to achieve their unit or department’s health and well-being goals.
• Communicate to coworkers about MHealthy programs and resources.
• Encourage participation in healthy activities.

“Champion support is especially important as we navigate this new normal and look for creative ways to encourage employee health and well-being regardless of where you’re working,” said Leola Hearing, a project specialist for MHealthy. “Champions identify the unique well-being needs of their coworkers and work with MHealthy to tailor programs.”

“If you are enthusiastic about health and well-being, like to motivate others and want to spark change, we encourage you to apply,” continued Hearing. “Our hope is to have a group that reflects our university community’s diverse mix of job roles, age, race and gender.”

Employees interested in becoming Champions should apply by Aug. 31. Prior to accepting the application, MHealthy will contact the candidate’s supervisor for approval.

Learn more and apply to be an MHealthy Champion. 

Questions? Email mhealthy-champs@umich.edu