Nationwide 2K Event Will Support Homeless Veterans and Promote Employee Wellness

WASHINGTON (April 22, 2011 –  The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is hosting a nationwide 2K Walk and Roll event at more than 130 VA facilities on June 2 in support of employee wellness month. The event will also encourage employee and local community support of homeless Veterans.

“Worksite wellness activities enhance employee engagement and contribute to a more productive and healthy workforce,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.  “These 2K Walk and Roll events are an excellent way to involve the entire VA community, highlight the importance of physical activity in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and help homeless Veterans get the assistance they need.”

VA facilities across the Nation will be holding individual 2K events on June 2 in each of their respective locations.  While there is no registration fee, employees and volunteers participating in the event are asked to donate to support homeless Veterans. Participation is open to the community; donations are optional.

VA’s employee wellness program is known as WIN (Wellness Is Now).  WIN empowers employees with the knowledge, skills and tools they need to create a culture of health and wellness.  Further, the group encourages employees to use their appreciation of wellness to inspire Veterans to live healthier lifestyles.

WIN integrates traditional occupational safety and health programs with health promotion activities, addressing both workplace and worker health. Through this program staff find opportunities to embrace healthy and positive lifestyle choices that sustain and improve their own health, reduce preventable injuries and illnesses, reduce absenteeism and enable them to do their important work of serving the Nation’s Veterans.

Email AskVHAEmployeewellness@va.gov to find out if your VA facility is hosting a 2K event.  VA facilities can be located by visiting www.va.gov/directory.