Amid the growing concern around mental health, recognizing and prioritizing mental well-being in the workplace has become an essential aspect of a healthy and productive work environment. In March 2023, the Council received the prestigious Bell Seal Gold Award for its commitment to workplace mental health.
The Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health, awarded by Mental Health America, is a national employer certification program that acknowledges organizations for their dedication to fostering positive worker mental health and well-being. It is a symbol of an organization’s commitment to providing a psychologically safe and supportive work environment, a mission that we have taken to heart.
It signifies not only a commitment to the mental health of employees but also a commitment to creating a healthier, more productive, and compassionate workplace. Employees who feel supported and valued are more engaged, leading to improved community engagement and more effective anti-poverty initiatives.
Bell Seal recipients complete a comprehensive 58-criteria application of workplace policies and practices that influence worker mental health outcomes, including workplace culture, benefits, compliance, and wellness programs.
Out of the hundreds of organizations that applied, less than 1 in 4 were accepted. The Council is now among the top 17% of workplaces in America and the largest employer in Kentucky to hold this recognition.
Jonas Cooper, Assistant Director of Child Development at the Council, played a pivotal role in leading the efforts that resulted in this significant designation. His dedication and leadership have been instrumental in fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes mental well-being.
Jonas said, “Receiving the Bell Seal Certification is an affirmation that we as an organization are focusing efforts in the right ways to improve the organization’s workplace mental health. Improving the environment for our teams so they feel supported and motivated allows us all to engage our community better and provide the anti-poverty help we are passionate about.”
Mental health is not just a personal matter; it is a collective responsibility that transcends the boundaries of the workplace.
Check out our discussion about mental health with Champion Therapy’s Daisy Brown on our Lex Talk, More Action podcast, or hear from Dr. Antonio Garcia on our Look Who’s Talking podcast.