When team members are supported in their well-being — physically, mentally, and emotionally — they’re able to do their best work and lead more fulfilling lives. As Senior Manager of Benefits and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Wills Group, I have the privilege of helping shape the programs and experiences that make that possible.
Workplace wellness is part of our culture. From flexible work arrangements and mental health support to community-building activities, we’re intentional about creating space for people to take care of themselves and connect with others.
Our focus is simple: help employees feel seen, supported, and empowered every day. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, I’m proud to share how Wills Group continues to prioritize workplace wellness in ways that make a real difference.
Whole Wellness Programs
Wills Group offers a wide range of wellness programs to support the whole employee. These include virtual mental health tools, confidential counseling, in-person wellness events, financial guidance, and flexible ways to rest and recharge. No two wellness journeys are the same, so we aim to offer something for everyone.
This year, we launched a new wellness platform that makes it easier for team members to choose the activities that fit best into their routines. Unlike past programs that rewarded specific tasks, the new platform is points-based. Team members can choose activities, earn points, and win up to $300 in incentives.
We continue to offer virtual mental health tools as part of our benefits package, making it easier for employees to access support when and where they need it. These services complement our Employee Assistance Programs through Lincoln and Cigna, which offer short-term counseling and referrals for ongoing care.
Financial well-being is another essential part of workplace wellness. Team members can speak with financial advisors for free to help navigate personal money matters.
And because wellness should include a little fun, we introduced a company-wide kickball league funded through our partnership with Cigna. It’s been a great way to build camaraderie and enjoy time together outside of work.
Balance, Burnout, and Mental Health Support
As employees navigate shifting demands in life and work, we continue to see rising mental health needs across our workforce. Our internal surveys and Cigna utilization reports affirm what we hear directly from team members: stress and burnout are real, and people need space to recover and reset.
To support that, we’ve introduced wellness activities like yoga sessions, guided sound baths, and wellness studio partnerships that allow team members to pause and recharge. Our annual Health & Wellness Fair remains a favorite tradition, offering chair massages, health screenings, and visits from onsite vendors. These experiences help staff take meaningful breaks during the day and reconnect with their health and each other.
Work-life balance is equally important. We support flexible work arrangements and actively encourage employees to use their PTO. We’ve even introduced extra PTO days as part of this year’s wellness prize incentives. This reminds the team that rest is encouraged and celebrated.
Together, these efforts reflect a broader belief: well-being is personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why we stay focused on listening, adapting, and creating space for people to care for themselves in the ways that work best for them.
Fostering a Culture of Well-Being
Wellness programs only work when people know about them and are encouraged to participate. That’s why we prioritize communication and engagement just as much as the benefits themselves. We promote wellness resources through digital signage, our biweekly newsletter, and regular updates from Store Managers who help drive awareness and participation across locations.
We also use incentives to spark engagement, from wellness raffles to rewards for completing activities. Whether it’s a kickball game or a wellness check-in, our goal is to create inclusive, energizing, and employee-driven experiences.
The feedback we receive reminds us that these efforts matter. One team member shared in our recent benefits survey:
“I think the company pays close attention to the benefits to make the employees feel cared for and promote a healthier lifestyle. Thank you for your constant work on improving the benefits!”
We also celebrate everyday moments that build connection, from birthday and anniversary shout-outs to quarterly wellness initiatives that bring people together.
To me, this is what a culture of well-being looks like. It’s not just about access to resources — it’s about creating an environment where people feel safe, heard, and genuinely valued. When our leaders show up for yoga or join a kickball game, it sends a clear message: wellness is for everyone. And that’s what turns a list of benefits into something more meaningful — a true culture of care.
A Commitment to Employee Well-Being
Wellness at Wills Group is an ongoing commitment to our people. Whether launching new programs, creating space to recharge, or acting on employee feedback, we’re always working to make well-being part of everyday work life. That commitment has helped us earn Great Place to Work® certification four years in a row.
As we continue to grow, our goal remains simple: to support employees in ways that are real, responsive, and rooted in care. Because when people feel their best, they bring their best — to their work, their teams, and their lives beyond the workplace.
Interested in joining a company that puts people first? Explore careers at Wills Group.
