[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/healthy_pit_stop.jpg” caption=”Wanda McKenna, manager of employee work-life support services, and Terry Sullivan, director of Security and Parking Services, hand out apples and granola bars to shuttle bus commuters at a Healthy Pit Stop event this morning at Mary Keyes Circle. The Healthy Pit Stop was intended to thank shuttle bus commuters and also act as a prelude to Healthy Workplace Week. Photo credit: Chantall Van Raay”]Every morning next week, you may hear a loud trumpeting voice bellow “Good morning McMaster.” It won't be Robin Williams, in a sequel to his popular 1980s hit Good Morning Vietnam, but one of McMaster's Healthy Workplace Week coordinators, who will help keep McMaster active during a national weeklong event for workplace health.

Good Morning McMaster is one of several initiatives planned Oct. 24-28 for Healthy Workplace Week. Each year, organizations across Canada set aside a specific week to increase awareness about the importance of workplace health to personal and organizational performance. McMaster is once again joining in on the national celebration, providing a wide range of activities.

“Maintaining a healthy work environment and taking care of our own personal well-being is a responsibility we all share,” says Wanda McKenna, manager of employee work-life support services. “McMaster is dedicated to the health and well-being of each and every one of its employees. The Healthy Workplace initiatives are designed to provide employees with the knowledge and tools to take action and make decisions that lead to a healthier lifestyle.”

Healthy Workplace Week empowers employees to make positive choices for health and well-being, McKenna adds. “The Healthy Workplace Group recognizes the value of balancing work and life responsibilities. Our aim is to increase awareness of employee wellness services available at McMaster University.”

All employees are invited to take part in the activities including the newly introduced 'Good Morning McMaster' early morning fitness sessions and the various lunch time activities with topics ranging from stress relief to nutrition. The week will kick off with an open house on Monday, Oct. 24 at Wentworth House from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join the Healthy Workplace Group as they celebrate Healthy Workplace Week with refreshments, free giveaways, prize draws and information booths. President Peter George will provide a brief address at 12 p.m.

For a full list of events and to register visit www.workingatmcmaster.ca and click on Healthy Workplace or register via phone at ext. 26645.