BankNewport Recognized with Exemplary Worksite Health Award



BankNewport earns Exemplary Worksite Health Award from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island and the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce
Award recognizes BankNewport’s Vitality Wellness Program for creating a healthier, more connected workplace

 
BankNewport was recognized with an Exemplary Worksite Health Award from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) and the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce (the Chamber) for effective programs encouraging employee health and well-being in a meaningful way.
 
“At BankNewport, we believe that when our employees are healthy in body, mind, and spirit, our whole community benefits," said Jack Murphy, President & CEO of BankNewport. "Through our Vitality Wellness Program, we see firsthand how walking clubs, wellness challenges, and simple acts of encouragement create meaningful connections and support personal growth. This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team and our commitment to creating a workplace where everyone has the resources, encouragement, and sense of belonging they need to thrive.”
 
BankNewport was one of nearly 50 Rhode Island businesses honored by BCBSRI and the Chamber with a Worksite Health Award at a breakfast attended by hundreds of state business leaders. The event celebrated local businesses who have demonstrated a commitment to improving Rhode Islanders’ overall health through innovative wellness programs.
 
BankNewport’s Vitality Wellness Program empowers employees to take charge of their health through year-round programming, onsite resources, and peer support. Recent success stories include employees who have made life-changing improvements, such as reducing an A1C from over 9 to 5, normalizing cholesterol and blood pressure, losing 25 to 80 pounds, and reversing risk factors for chronic conditions. Participants credit resources such as the onsite Wellness Center, Wellness Week activities, employee wellness clubs, and support from the employee Wellness Champions group.
 
In the past year, the Walking Club logged 205 miles among 19 participants, the Book Club read 12 books, employees recorded 75 Peloton rides totaling 353 miles, and Wellness Center usage rose by 66% in average monthly users and 84% in monthly visits. Employee Assistance Program utilization increased by 57%, with employees utilizing the great resources provided ranging from life coaching, financial coaching, and mental health support. These results reflect BankNewport’s continued investment in a workplace culture where wellness is accessible, encouraged, and integrated into the employee experience.

“At Blue Cross, we’re proud to recognize—and celebrate—local businesses that are dedicated to the health and well-being of their employees,” said John Donohue, BCBSRI Vice President of Commercial Markets. “With so many companies headquartered in Rhode Island, their best practices are a model for businesses within our state and across the nation. It was inspiring to see the creative, innovative ways that employers are helping their employees improve their physical, mental, and social well-being.”

Laurie White, President of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, said, “Now in the 31st year of the Worksite Health Awards, we remain inspired by the creativity and commitment of those Rhode Island companies that go above and beyond to make employee wellness a priority. “By supporting healthy lifestyles and boosting morale, worksite wellness programs are a win-win for everyone. We are once again proud to partner with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island to recognize local businesses finding innovative and engaging ways to help their employees live better, healthier and happier lives.”

About BankNewport:
Founded in 1819 and headquartered in Newport, BankNewport offers a full suite of loan and deposit products and services for families and businesses throughout Rhode Island. BankNewport is one of the oldest banks in the United States and, as a mutual organization, is committed to the financial success of its customers, employees, and the community for 206 years. BankNewport has nineteen branch locations, a community lending center in Central Falls, and a commercial lending office in Providence. OceanPoint Marine Lending, a business line of BankNewport, specializes in consumer marine and recreational vehicle financing programs.
 
Through its All In Giving program, BankNewport is committed to supporting nonprofits with areas of impact focused on basic human needs, children and families, education, economic security, healthy lives, arts and culture, and the environment. BankNewport has awarded over $7.7 million in grants, sponsorships, and donations over the past five years to a wide range of nonprofits to help strengthen and enrich lives and communities throughout Rhode Island. Financial education and community service performed by employees totals 10,000 hours annually. For more information, please visit www.BankNewport.com.
 
About BCBSRI:
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (bcbsri.com) is a non-profit, community-focused health plan established in 1939 to help Rhode Islanders finance their healthcare needs. Today, that purpose is still foundational to our work. We have a vision to improve health and well-being by leading access to high quality, affordable, and equitable care. We are an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
 
About the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce:
The Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce is Rhode Island’s only statewide chamber. The Chamber is the hub of connections for Rhode Island businesses of all sizes, in all industries and in all sectors. For more information, visit www.provchamber.com, follow us on Twitter @Provchamber, and like us on Facebook.