Initiatives to Promote Delaware’s Employee Wellness and Work-Life Balance
Driven by a shifting demographic landscape in the workplace, practices that foster wellness and work-life balance have emerged as pivotal to attracting and retaining talent. Delaware, which was ranked the #1 state for working from home in 2023 by WalletHub, sees its large employers and public policies continually encouraging a healthy balance between professional responsibilities and personal life. By prioritizing wellness and work-life balance, companies and leaders in Delaware employee wellness initiatives are not only enhancing the quality of life for its residents but also establishing a model for other states to follow.
Innovative Employee Wellness Initiatives in the Workplace
CSC, consistently recognized by the Delaware News Journal as one of the top workplaces since 2007, provides corporate services to businesses globally, including over 90% of the Fortune 500 companies. Located in downtown Wilmington, CSC is committed to promoting work-life balance among its approximately 1,350 employees through both traditional means – such as paid time-off, healthcare benefits, and bonuses – and innovative approaches. These include flexible schedules, remote work options, tuition assistance, on-site fitness facilities, health and wellness days, and mental health support services. Additionally, the CSC Gives Back program matches employee charitable contributions, fostering employee engagement with local organizations and strengthening community ties. In 2022 alone, CSC matched over $130,000 in donations to charity, with 58% directed towards organizations supporting social well-being.
Perdue Farms, a family-owned poultry processer with around 5,780 employees in Delaware and one of the largest employers in the state, has garnered recognition for its workplace environment. Forbes named the company one of Delaware’s Best Employers in 2019, and the Maryland Department of Health awarded it a Gold Wellness at Work Award. These accolades are a testament to Perdue’s commitment to employee wellness, highlighted by the innovative Perdue HealthWorks. This comprehensive healthcare program provides associates and their dependents with affordable ($0 co-pay), quality care at on-site Wellness Centers, which offer treatment from headaches and allergies to women’s health and family planning. Plus, all Perdue Farms associates have the opportunity to receive their high school diploma through an accredited online curriculum at no cost as well as continue their education at the Perdue Learning University.
Public Policies Encouraging Delaware’s Employee Wellness and Work-Life Balance
Delaware’s commitment to promoting work-life balance and employee wellness extends beyond the business community. The Healthy Delaware Families Act, signed into law in 2022, paves the way for a Paid Family Leave program within the state. Although not in effect until 2026, Paid Family Leave fosters work-life balance by offering employees flexibility during critical life moments – whether it be welcoming a new child, caring for a sick family member, or addressing personal health concerns. As of 2024, only 12 other states and the District of Columbia have passed a paid family and medical leave program, underscoring Delaware’s support of balancing employee wellness with professional responsibilities.
The Lt. Governor’s Wellness Challenge stands as another testament to Delaware’s commitment to promoting healthy living. This initiative recognizes individuals, organizations, and institutions that not only champion wellness within their communities but also serve as inspirational figures for fellow Delawareans to emulate. An essential criterion for receiving a wellness leadership award is the ability to showcase tangible improvements in the accessibility of behavioral and physical health services throughout the state. By honoring those who strive to enhance the collective well-being, the Lt. Governor’s Wellness Challenge reflects an understanding in Delaware of the importance of fostering a culture that values engagement and wellness beyond the workplace.
Supporting Prosperity
As Delaware continues to emerge as a leader in fostering work-life balance and promoting employee wellness, it’s clear that both the private and public sectors play pivotal roles. From CSC’s innovative workplace policies to Perdue Farms’ comprehensive health care programs, Delaware’s companies are setting benchmarks for how to support employees’ well-being and personal growth. Meanwhile, state initiatives like the Healthy Delaware Families Act and the Lt. Governor’s Wellness Challenge showcase a governmental commitment to creating a supportive environment that values the health and happiness of its citizens. As Delaware continues this path, it reaffirms the importance of adopting holistic approaches to work and life, encouraging a future where well-being is at the forefront of every organization’s ethos.