Keenan Develops “Thinner Winners” Challenge to Assist Clients in Fighting Obesity and Developing Healthy Employee Lifestyles
New Value-Added Program Offers Comprehensive Guidelines and Assistance
TORRANCE, Calif. – August 11, 2010 -- Keenan, the largest privately held insurance brokerage and consulting firm in California, has developed a “Thinner Winners” challenge to help its clients provide a wellness program addressing one of today’s most pressing health issues. The goal of the program is to create a fun and informative way to encourage individuals and their families to develop healthy lifestyle patterns and habits.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of obesity among adults aged 20 and over has increased from 19.4 percent in 1997 to 28 percent in 2009. In addition, the excess health care cost associated with obesity is estimated at nearly $2,000 a year per person compared to those within a normal weight range.
“Healthy employees are an indispensable asset to any organization. They are more productive and bring positive energy to the workplace,” said Henry Loubet, Chief Strategy Officer for Keenan. “However, obesity and overweight conditions have become one of the most significant and talked about health issues in the nation. And, although many weight management programs have been developed and implemented, an increasing trend in obesity/overweight still continues.”
To kick off the “Thinner Winners” program and fine tune the guidelines it now offers to its clients, Keenan conducted an internal weight loss contest, with significant success in engagement and results. Approximately 25% of Keenan employees, including senior management, participated and achieved a total weight loss of 2,263 lbs. The program was effectively administered by a human resources professional who did not have significant training in wellness.
About Keenan
Founded in 1972, Keenan is the 14th largest insurance brokerage firm in the United States, and the largest independent broker in California. Keenan is dedicated to providing superior insurance products and services to schools, community colleges, municipalities, and healthcare organizations that include employee benefits, third-party claims administration, workers' compensation, integrated disability, risk management, and property and liability. Keenan has a network of offices located throughout California and a staff of more than 650 insurance specialists. For more information, call 1-800-654-8102, 1-310-212-3344 or email info@keenan.com. Visit our web site at www.keenan.com.