Lee County Schools "Lightens Up" by 2000 lbs and...( KELOWNA BC Aug. 7 / Over 260 Lee Coun...),Health

KELOWNA, BC, Aug. 7 /PRNewswire/ - Over 260 Lee County employees are lighter this year thanks to a fun three-month competition. Using the CoreXL wellness platform, Lisa Brown, Wellness Coordinator launched "Lighten Up Lee Schools," a health challenge for sustainable weight reduction. "This fun challenge model could fit many institutions throughout North America," comments Lisa.

Lee County School District has provided wellness challenges for their 10,000 employees for four years. Initially, a combination of bulletin boards and paper enabled fitness, weight loss, nutrition, and other health competitions. When the workload became unmanageable, Lisa sought a web solution. This doubled participation rates and freed significant time.

"People set their own goals and achieve their own targets, and the site manages all of it," comments Lisa. "They use the motivational software within the site to track, report, and compete." The greatest reward for participants is the pride of accomplishment and enjoyment of the competition. Participants share their stories with other staff members, and work together to achieve their goals. This social interaction helps motivate, while keeping supportive employees connected. "I have been so pleased that I can see the graph going down! I have lost a total of 6 pounds so far and my clothes are more comfortable," wrote one participant on the site.

The three month challenge produced a rare result. Every participant finished... and everyone lost weight. Collectively, participants lost over 2000lbs or 360 BMI points. Lee County's next endeavors include a steps challenge, healthy breakfasts, sound sleep, and colorful veggie consumption, all packaged as fun competitions.

Many wellness administrators wish they could accomplish what Lee Schools does, but they think they lack the funds. Lisa disagrees. "Our total technology costs are under $1 per month per employee, it's not big money."

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