The City of Avondale Estates has been selected by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) to receive one of the Health & Wellbeing Incentive Grants awarded statewide to promote worksite programs designed to enhance the health and wellbeing of the City associates and family members.

Awards are made to members of the GMA GMEBS Life and Health Insurance Fund, underwritten by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia, based on a municipality’s commitment to associate health and demonstrated collaboration with other community groups and organizations engaged in health promotion.

As part of the grant process, the City designated a Health Promotion Champion to develop a workplace health promotion action plan and to attend Local Government Risk Management Services’ (LGRMS) High Impact Health Promotion Champion training session.

Workplace wellbeing programs have a demonstrated track record of improving associates’ health and quality of life while reducing medical claims and improving workplace morale. The GMA offers wellbeing services to all member cities through LGRMS, a not-for-profit agency operated jointly with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia.

Associates are offered a confidential health assessment program using a Health Risk Appraisal, with blood pressure screening and health improvement feedback. City of Avondale Estates Director of Finance Ken Turner said, "We are pleased GMA recognizes our interest in our associates’ health and in managing health care costs. This grant will help us provide new programs to our staff and their families."

The City of Avondale Estates has received this grant since 2009, using the funds to enhance and expand its wellness program for City associates from a 13-week pilot to a year-round endeavor. In addition to assessments and online resources, Associates also enjoy wellness classes taught by DeKalb Medical nutritionists and challenges to develop better health habits.

The GMA – GMEBS is available to all Georgia Municipal Association members. Currently, several cities, authorities, and regional commissions participate in the health plan. All cities, authorities, and regional commissions participating in the GMA – GMEBS are eligible to apply for the Health & Wellbeing Incentive Grants on an annual basis. The GMA is pleased to support Avondale Estates in this important endeavor.

About the City of Avondale Estates

Located just seven miles east of Atlanta, Avondale Estates is a dynamic and growing City, and a community of good neighbors who embrace local businesses, great ideas and big opportunities.