FORT KENT – The Northern Maine Medical Center had another reason to celebrate this holiday season, with a contribution of $10,000 by KeyBank, N.A., to further develop a corporate wellness program for the St. John Valley.
Photo courtesy of NMMC
KeyBank recently presented a check for $10,000 to NMMC’s wellness program. Pictured, from left: Steve St. Pierre, vice president and senior relations manager, KeyBank; John Labrie, director of education, NMMC; and Michelle Martin, branch manager, KeyBank.
In 2006, Northern Maine Medical Center identified the need to provide corporate wellness programs that were convenient and accessible in northern Maine with the creation of the Wellness Center in Fort Kent and Acadia Fitness Center in Madawaska. Conveniently located in both downtowns, NMMC envisioned affordability, accessibility and quality of design through the development process. With these components in place, last winter KeyBank identified their desire to work in collaboration with NMMC in the wellness projects forthcoming.
KeyBank representatives approached senior management at Northern Maine Medical Center with an interest to explore sponsorship opportunities in a manner that contributes to the community in a meaningful way. Providing assistance to offer programs specifically designed to address employees’ most important health factors, such as smoking cessation, heart health, exercise and weight loss, were common goals for both organizations.
KeyBank, NMMC and community members formed the Wellness Advisory Committee that met to discuss strategy and timeline of the corporate wellness program.
“KeyBank’s $10,000 sponsorship would be used to purchase marketing collateral to introduce and promote the program, as well as for other hard-dollar components of the program, such as graphic design, printing, advertising and health fairs,” commented Steven St. Pierre, vice president and senior relations manager for KeyBank.
Although the name of the program might be identified as a large employer program, the committee urges businesses of any size in the St. John Valley to consider participation. The programs are meant to bring healthier lifestyles for employees and a more efficient workforce for the employer.
In a separate written statement, St. Pierre stated, “KeyBank is pleased and proud to support the Northern Maine Medical Center’s Corporate Wellness Program and sees this program as a ‘win-win’ opportunity for the individuals and businesses that participate. At KeyBank, we recognize the positive benefits of an active and healthy lifestyle, in the communities we serve, and look forward to supporting and celebrating this program, alongside the healthcare professionals at Northern Maine Medical Center.”
Northern Maine Medical Center is very appreciative of KeyBank’s generous contribution to the hospital, as these programs will promote a healthier lifestyle and work environment for Madawaska, Fort Kent and surrounding communities.
