September 12, 2024
Healthiest Employers® was started in 2009 to celebrate companies that prioritize their people by investing in their employees' health. In partnership with Springbuk, we are pleased to announce the 2024 Healthiest Employers of Kentucky.
Each company filled out our annual Healthiest Employers application. The responses are scored Rubric style 1-100 scale. The assessment comprises six categories with yes/no, multiple choice, and short answer questions, with each totaling .25-3 points. A Healthiest Employers Index (HEI) is assigned to each application to help rank among companies of similar sizes. For information on how the applications are scored, please visit our methodology page here.
For the last few years, a heavily debated topic has been on returning to the office vs. remote work vs. hybrid work. Our Kentucky applicants reported that:
- 0% work completely in the office or on-site
- 27.3% report that they are on a hybrid schedule with certain days/times in the office
- 72.7% only provide specific roles or teams with work-from-home opportunities
- 0% are considered a fully remote workforce
Congratulations to all of this year’s winners!
25 to 499 Employees
1st Commonwealth Credit Union
Frankfort
370 Employees
Commonwealth Credit Union was established on April 2, 1951, with 122 shareholders, $2,700 in assets, and one volunteer. By 1976, the organization had expanded to employ six individuals with nearly 6,000 members. Since then, its assets have grown from $2.8 million to over $2 billion. Commonwealth Credit Union operates 17 branches across Central Kentucky and the Louisville Metro Area.
The organization offers free healthy snacks in all break rooms, a perk introduced during the pandemic to alleviate workplace stress and show appreciation for team members. On particularly hectic days, snacks are even delivered directly to employees at their desks. This initiative has received positive feedback. Additionally, team members can order fresh items from a local farmer's market for weekly delivery to the office. Committed to addressing the 5 Pillars of Well-being, the organization uses Gallup's “Well-being at Work” guide, with leaders trained on the subject. The Wellness Committee sends weekly health-related information and hosts monthly fitness challenges that accommodate all staff, regardless of physical condition. The benefits package includes health insurance and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Culture Champions organize fun activities to strengthen social and community ties within the organization.
A Walk at Work program offers employees an extra 30 minutes each week for walking, with encouragement to use the walking track behind the main building. Financial well-being is a priority, with the Financial Fitness Team providing monthly training courses and materials. The Culture Champions also promote camaraderie through monthly events, contributing to the organization being named a Best Place to Work in Kentucky for six consecutive years.
The organization’s in-house CU Healthy program awards points for completing wellness tasks like medical exams, physical activities, or financial literacy courses. When a certain number of points are earned, the organization deposits funds into the employee's Health Savings Account.
"Commonwealth Credit Union firmly believes that investing in employee wellness is not just a benefit, but a strategic imperative. Our wellness program is designed to enhance the overall health and happiness of our team, leading to increased productivity, lower absenteeism, and stronger employee engagement." –Karen Harbin, CEO
2nd Strategic Communications, LLC
Louisville
67 Employees
Strategic Communications, LLC is an Information Technology Value Added Reseller and Service Provider.
The organization has launched an 8-month Spring/Summer wellness challenge focused on tracking weight loss, body mass improvement, and physical activities, with a grand prize of a long weekend getaway and additional monetary or gift card rewards for other winners. In 2023, a step challenge was held where the company donated a portion of profits to charity for every 1 million steps. Collectively, employees achieved nearly 16 million steps, resulting in over $18,000 donated to non-profits.
To support physical well-being, the company provides Fitbits to employees participating in physical challenges, with rewards based on activity tiers. For mental health, employees have access to two Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that offer three free counseling sessions annually. Financial wellness is promoted through periodic webinars and seminars on topics such as budgeting, credit protection, and home savings.
The organization fosters social engagement through various employee activities, including free luncheons, "fun" days during busy periods, and offsite team-building events with family involvement. It also demonstrates community commitment by volunteering with the Salvation Army during Christmas and organizing at least one volunteer or fundraising activity for local non-profits each quarter.
“I love the fact that Strategic's wellness initiatives don't focus on one specific area. We do our best to look at wellness holistically and consider employee's physical, financial, emotional and social well-being. Although we are a small organization in terms of headcount, I'm grateful that executive leadership goes above and beyond in terms of providing resources to better the lives of our staff.” –Paige Reh, HR Director
3rd Insuramax
Louisville
39 Employees
Insuramax provides comprehensive insurance solutions to clients in Louisville, KY, and across the U.S. The company works closely with clients to identify their unique needs and assists them in making informed decisions.
Insuramax offers full-time employees High Deductible Health Plans (HDHP) alongside Health Savings Accounts, matching employee contributions up to $67 per pay period. Nearly all employees participate in the HDHP plans. Insuramax promotes a culture of health and wellbeing by addressing all pillars of wellbeing and providing a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, savings accounts, life, disability, critical illness, and accident coverage. Flexible work arrangements, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), comprehensive medical benefits, and a time-off policy support employee mental health. The company also offers competitive wages and a generous 401(k) match.
The wellness and activities committees have been combined to encourage both healthy and enjoyable social activities, including volunteer opportunities. Insuramax supports telecommuting as an alternative work arrangement when suited to the individual, job, and supervisor. Telecommuting allows employees to work from home, on the road, or at a satellite location for part or all of their regular workweek. The company determines telecommuting schedules, with permission granted at its discretion, and leaders set expectations for employees regarding their work schedules and locations.
“Nearly 100% of our employees and their dependents participate in their annual physical exams and biometrics each year to benchmark opportunities to improve their physical health. We firmly believe that prevention can mitigate large claims down the line, and give our associates and their family members, more quality in their lives for a longer period of time.” –Drew LaMaster, Vice President of Employee Benefits
500 to 9,999 Employees
1st Louisville Metro Government
Louisville
5,429 Employees
2023 Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America Winner
Louisville Metro Government (LMG) serves the City of Louisville, the largest city in Kentucky, located along the Ohio River near the Indiana border. Its mission is to act as a catalyst in creating a world-class city that offers safe, vibrant neighborhoods, great jobs, a strong education system, innovation, and a high quality of life for all citizens. The vision for the city is one of safety, lifelong learning, great jobs, wellness, and compassion, with core values of lifelong learning, compassion, and health.
Louisville Metro Government provides in-house physical therapy at the LMG Employee Wellness Center for employees, spouses, and dependents enrolled in one of its medical plans. After an initial evaluation by a medical provider, patients may be referred to physical therapy if necessary. The therapy services are conveniently located in the same building, allowing patients to schedule appointments immediately. With a $5 copay, significantly lower than typical rates, this service reduces barriers to care and shortens wait times. In 2023, 839 physical therapy appointments were completed, a 14.9% increase from the previous year, highlighting its popularity.
Louisville Metro Government has implemented a comprehensive wellness program that addresses physical, mental, and social health to support employee well-being. For physical health, the LMG Wellness Center offers regular health screenings, nutrition classes, and activities like "Walk with the Registered Dietitian" to promote movement. Mental health is supported through the Life Solutions program, which provides confidential counseling and stress management workshops, as well as “quiet rooms” in some departments for relaxation. Social health is fostered through team-building activities, volunteer opportunities, and a culture of inclusivity. LMG’s holistic approach enhances employee well-being, leading to a more productive and satisfied workforce.
2nd Higginbotham
Fort Worth, Texas (Local Office: Louisville)
3,248 Employees
2023 Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America Winner
Higginbotham is an employee-owned firm offering insurance, financial, and HR/employee benefits services. Founded in 1948 and based in Fort Worth, Texas, it ranks as the 21st largest independent insurance brokerage in the U.S. by revenue. Serving businesses and individuals nationwide, the firm tailors programs to meet each client’s unique needs and provides ongoing support through its Day Two Services®. Higginbotham is a values-driven organization, aiming to treat employees like family, be accountable to clients, work collaboratively with carriers, and give generously to communities.
Higginbotham has significantly enhanced its mental health resources in response to employee interest and engagement. The company has offered numerous live and recorded workshops on mental health topics, including overviews, depression and anxiety, suicide awareness, thriving, and self-care. Additionally, Higginbotham provides an Employee Assistance Program and a full subscription to Koa Health for digital mental health solutions. The mental health program has seen high engagement, with more than 80 employees placed with a mental health professional in Q1 of 2024 alone. The median wait time for the first appointment is 0.8 days, with all members starting care within two weeks. Employees have rated this benefit a perfect 5.0 out of 5.0, with 100% provider satisfaction.
In 2024, Higginbotham added Tria Health, offering unlimited access to licensed pharmacists for medication reviews and management of diabetes or hypertension. Employees receive up to three $50 gift cards per session with a pharmacist, and high-risk members qualify for a free pharmacogenomics test. Their benefits package also includes a partnership with Enrich, offering financial health resources such as quizzes, courses, content, webinars, and more on topics like retirement, saving for goals, investing, budgeting, managing debt, and behavioral finance. Higginbotham encourages community involvement and social relationship-building through volunteer opportunities. Employees receive wellness program credit for community service, and the Community Fund, supported by employees, aids registered 501c3 non-profit organizations.
“Higginbotham is a people-first firm, and one of our core values is to be family to our employees. That means giving them the resources they need to lead healthy lifestyles so they’re happy at home, productive at work, and satisfied with their employment so they’re part of our family for many years.”–Rusty Reid, Chief Executive Officer
3rd St. Elizabeth Healthcare
Edgewood
7,777 Employees
St. Elizabeth, with over 10,000 associates and nearly 1,600 physicians and advanced practice providers, is deeply rooted in the communities it serves. Treating patients as family, friends, and neighbors, the organization draws on its diverse backgrounds and expertise to lead the community and uphold its Mission, Vision, and Values. Founded in 1861 by Henrietta Cleveland, with support from the Diocese of Covington and the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor, St. Elizabeth has been serving the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati region for over a century. Known for its exceptional physicians, nurses, convenient locations, award-winning care, and advanced technology, St. Elizabeth is committed to delivering the highest quality of care.
The organization is dedicated to enhancing mental well-being through a multifaceted approach. Leaders benefit from quarterly keynote speakers on topics like burnout, stress management, and resilience, aimed at spreading knowledge throughout the organization. Over the past year, nearly 100 department-specific resiliency workshops have been held, showing improvement in recognizing and addressing stress.
The organization offers a variety of support mechanisms, including an internal Employee Assistance Program (EAP), complimentary health coaching, 13 Calm Corner rooms, seven onsite gyms, the Headspace app, clinical visits, and 24/7 access to a mental health coach. Additional initiatives include green spaces, nature scene screensavers, prayer sessions at meetings, and a wellness platform with stress management courses. Managers have protected time without meetings from 8 am to 10 am to focus on work or personal well-being. Facilities feature chapels, therapy animals, and walking paths to support both mental and physical health.
“At our organization, we take immense pride in our comprehensive wellness programming. From fitness challenges to mental health support, we’ve created an environment that prioritizes the well-being of our employees. Our commitment to fostering a healthy work-life balance, promoting physical activity, and providing resources for stress management sets us apart. We firmly believe that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce, and it’s this dedication that makes us truly worthy of recognition.” –Julie McGregor, Senior Vice President of Human Resources
10,000+ Employees
1st U-Haul International
Phoenix, Arizona (Multiple Local Offices)
16,371 Employees
2023 Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America Winner
Since 1945, U-Haul has been the #1 choice of do-it-yourself movers, with a network of more than 23,000 locations across all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. In addition, they have a fleet of over 186,000 trucks, 128,000 trailers, 46,000 towing devices, 876,000 rentable storage units, and 75.1 million square feet of self-storage space.
U-Haul is very proud of their Virta offering, a clinically proven treatment to reverse Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and pre-diabetes. Through this treatment plan, U-Haul Team Members have been able to lower their A1c, lose weight, and reduce or eliminate the usage of insulin. Their mission is to sustainably reverse the conditions without the risks, costs, or side effects of medications or surgeries. 38% of diabetes-specific medications have been eliminated, insulin dosages have been reduced by 63%, and 16,000 total pounds have been lost through the use of this program.
U-Haul also strives to make healthy lifestyles attainable and affordable, which is why in 2021, they invested in a 54,000-square-foot corporate fitness center and on-site cafeteria where employees can order healthy meals for less than $5. While U-Haul is a vast corporation, their values are deep-rooted in family culture. From team-building challenges to the sharing of healthy recipes and tips, there is an unmistakable investment in everyone’s wellness journey.
“The wellness and benefits programs have helped me tremendously with my weight loss journey! As a work-from-home senior agent, the ‘Get Fit Program’ is one of my favorites because it has motivated me to go to the gym more, focus on my fitness goals, and be more active, especially since I am sitting for the majority of my work shift. The reimbursement incentive they offer not only helps alleviate the costs of my gym membership, but the check-ins incentive has me excited and ready to workout every day! I feel healthier, happier, and stronger!” –Leah Short, Senior Agent
2nd Bon Secours Mercy Health
Cincinnati, Ohio (Local Office: Paducah)
42,785 Employees
Bon Secours Mercy Health is at the forefront of transforming health care delivery and services. Known for its compassionate, high-value care across its hospitals and clinical sites in the U.S. and Ireland, the organization is expanding access to health care, improving outcomes, and increasing value through the use of emerging technologies, strategic investments, and partnerships.
The "Called to Shine" recognition program is central to the organization, fostering a sense of value, connection, and community among associates. This digital platform links employees across four states and over 30 hospitals, integrating new hires from day one and celebrating their contributions throughout the year. The program excels in engagement, with a 99% activation rate, 91% monthly engagement, and 84% monthly recognition sending rate. Beyond metrics, it strengthens connections by sharing stories of commitment and facilitating collaboration. The program is also enhancing inclusivity by partnering with diversity and inclusion experts to improve Employee Resource Groups and create more diverse celebrations, transitioning informal interactions into a digital format with the new Employee Connections module.
At Bon Secours Mercy Health, the approach to well-being encompasses four pillars: physical, mental/spiritual, financial, and social. Physical well-being is supported through partnerships with Aduro, Wellbeats, and Wondr, as well as internal programs like Be Well with Baby for expectant families. Mental well-being is addressed via Spring Health, which offers free therapy, coaching, and a comprehensive resource library on various wellness topics. Spiritual well-being is nurtured through daily reflections, prayers at meetings, and activities that help associates reconnect with their purpose and mission, aligning with the organization’s Catholic identity. Financial well-being is supported through a partnership with Fidelity, providing tools for financial literacy and retirement planning. Social well-being is promoted through company-wide Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that foster inclusion and belonging among diverse groups with shared interests, such as ABLE, Emerging Leaders, Nursing, Pride, Race Relations, Stars and Stripes, Women’s Network, and Working Parents. Additionally, the "Called to Shine" recognition platform, featuring Employee Connections, helps build relationships and enhance a sense of belonging across the organization.
“We've had tremendous success embedding well-being into our culture. It is a cornerstone of our culture and associate value proposition and strengthens our position as an employer of choice in talent attraction. Be Well continuously exceeds expectations by demonstrating outcomes that positively impact our associates medical costs, health risks and overall quality of life. This is imperative for our organization and mission to thrive.” –Joseph Gage, Chief Human Resources Officer
3rd Trilogy Health Services
Louisville
13,478 Employees
Before Trilogy was established, founder Randy Bufford envisioned transforming the senior living landscape with enhanced hospitality services and a full continuum of care. In 1997, he realized this vision by opening the first four Trilogy senior living communities. Today, Trilogy operates over 130 campuses across Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Under President and CEO Leigh Ann Barney, the organization is committed to becoming the leading healthcare company in the Midwest by continually addressing the needs of the seniors they serve.
Last year, the organization introduced a unique benefit: the Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA), which allows employees to build an account for everyday needs, enhancing their overall financial well-being. Employees can earn up to $75 each quarter by participating in various wellness activities, with the flexibility to use these funds on expenses not covered by traditional benefits.
After one year, the LSA has shown significant impact, particularly in supporting basic needs such as groceries and bills. From April 2023 to March 2024, employees used the account predominantly for groceries (30% of reimbursements totaling $48,000) and bills (24% of reimbursements totaling $53,000), covering utilities, mortgages, and rent. In total, over $500,000 was allocated to employees through this program.
The organization has adopted a holistic approach to health, with metrics indicating engagement in various well-being categories: 51% in activity, 47% in nutrition, 61% in health check assessments, 50% in social connections, 29% in mindfulness, and 24% in sleep. TrilogyFIT, the organization’s well-being program, aims to enhance well-being across all stages of life by fostering a culture of health and supporting active lifestyles. The program emphasizes not just physical health but overall well-being, focusing on three pillars—Health, Security, and Purpose.
“Our program relentlessly pursues a holistic, comprehensive, and inclusive approach to well-being that empowers everyone in our workforce to achieve their personal goals for what it means to be well, extending beyond the conventional reaches of physical wellness, while cultivating an environment for our employees to thrive within their community. When our employees thrive, so do those who are entrusted to our care.” –Bill Moore, Vice President of Total Rewards & Compensation
