What is the Returns On Wellbeing Institute?
Returns On Wellbeing Institute is a research, analysis, and strategic consulting firm that helps employers design and implement workplace wellbeing initiatives that achieve strategic business outcomes. Their approach to whole-person health centers on a research-based best practices framework, focusing on boosting employees’ physical, mental, and financial wellbeing to reach optimal health and wellbeing results. It’s not just about quick fixes or one-off programs — it’s a comprehensive strategy that truly moves the needle.
Main Benefits and Key Facts
Here’s a snapshot of some eye-opening facts that highlight why this approach matters:
- America is the unhealthiest of all industrialized nations.
- Over half of Americans have a chronic disease.
- 93 million Americans are obese.
- More than 100 million are diabetic or pre-diabetic (CDC).
- 53% of US employees experience financial stress.
- 60% of households can’t meet significant financial emergencies.
- Stress affects 8 out of 10 US workers.
- 20% of workers have a diagnosable mental illness.
These numbers aren’t just stats — they’re real challenges impacting productivity, healthcare costs, and overall workplace culture.
Whole-Person Health: The Core Approach
The Institute doesn’t treat workplace wellbeing as a single tactic or program. Instead, their framework is grounded in a multi-disciplinary approach based on data-driven insights across all aspects of employee wellbeing. Wellness programs focused solely on physical health, gym memberships, or smoking cessation haven’t really moved the needle. The whole-person approach — physical, mental, and financial wellbeing — is the proven way to improve employees’ lives and, ultimately, business outcomes.
Strategic Planning and Measuring Outcomes
Employers get more than just ideas — they receive a comprehensive, evidence-based best practice framework that guides strategic planning, whole-person health, workplace culture, purpose, leadership, and measuring outcomes and returns. This ensures wellbeing initiatives don’t just start strong but achieve their full potential over time. It’s about making sure every effort counts and delivers measurable business returns.
Employee-Centered Wellbeing Programs
Workplace wellbeing is a partnership. Employers can’t just assume they know what employees need. That’s why the Institute uses employee assessments and focus groups to design programs that truly meet employee needs and interests. This approach ensures enthusiastic participation rates and programs that resonate — because when employees feel heard, they’re more likely to engage and benefit.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3)
- Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8)
- Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10)
- Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)
Exploring New Frontiers: Employee Pet Ownership Study
Returns On Wellbeing Institute is currently conducting a new research study exploring the business case for supporting employee pet ownership. This fresh angle reflects their commitment to innovative, evidence-based approaches that address diverse aspects of whole-person health. It’s all about finding new ways to lower costs, boost profits, and earn a competitive advantage by focusing on what truly matters to employees.
