SOUTHWICK – Town Clerk MIchelle Hill, a former member of the Marine Corps., believes in staying active.
“I go for walks and do Beachbody workouts and I just want to keep moving,” said Hill.
When some of her co-workers at Town Hall expressed a desire to be more active, Hill decided to help motivate them by applying for a wellness grant from the state. Last year, the town was awarded $600 to get a program started and Hill just found out Southwick has received another $800 for this fiscal year.
“We can also get more money – up to $1,200 total – through incentives,” Hill said. “There is a training incentive next week that will give us another $100.”
A three-member committee of town employees is required to administer the grant. Hill and Parks and Recreation Administrative Assistant Cara Cartello are currently seeking a third member to help them plan programs.
“We used the grant money last year to get a gym going,” said Hill.
Hill purchased gym mats, hand weights and steps, as well as several fitness DVDs. Town employees can sign-in to use the room – located in the basement level of Town Hall – during their lunch break or any time when the building is open. A treadmill and two different exercise bikes were donated for employee use.
“I’m looking for an eliptical machine now,” Hill said.
Hill plans to make the room even more gym-like this year and has plans for several programs.
“Last spring we had a walk group that was well received,” she said.
Employees signed up to participate and committed to exercising 15 minutes or more each day. Hill said some employees joined forces and walked together during breaks while others biked, ran, swam or walked on their own.
“Everyone gave me a time sheet of what they did each day and for how long,” Hill said. “I’m planning to do another program like this in spring.”
This fall, Hill is planning an event with a guest nutritionist. She said in addition to motivating employees to get more active and make better food choices, the wellness program benefits the town by reducing health costs.
“I just think exercising is good and will extend your life,” Hill said.
Anyone with equipment to donate or who wants more information about the program should contact Hill.
