Community colleges as settings for promoting employee health

Eighty-one percent of the Presidents from the 59 campus North Carolina Community College System completed a brief survey to assess interest and current status of worksite health promotion programs. Campus tours were conducted at a convenience sample of six campuses using interviews, checklists, and environmental scans. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Only 27% of campuses had a wellness program in place. Campus Presidents affirmed high interest and a good fit between wellness programs and college mission. Possible barriers included limited access to healthy foods; variable access to fitness facilities; and, the challenge of accommodating part-time employees employed at geographically dispersed locations.
INTRODUCTION Approximately 68% of U.S. adults over age 15 are employed, with full-time employees spending an average 40% of waking hours in work-related endeavors (U.S. Department of Labor, 2007). In [...]