It wasn’t merely an award. It was a tangible piece of proof, a platinum-level acknowledgment of a truth that the approximately 760 employees of Newton County already knew deep in their bones—that they were part of something fundamentally different. This recognition from Aetna, their highest possible honor for employee wellness and engagement, felt less like a competition won and more like a secret finally shared with the world.
Standing against a field of entries from both private and public sectors across the nation, Newton County’s year-round, people-first approach was simply luminous. It was a testament to a philosophy that sees well-being not as a program, but as the very core of the organization’s existence.
The victory was not born from a single initiative, but from a constant, unwavering current of support flowing through four distinct channels.
There was the focus on Physical Well-Being, which went beyond simple health screenings. It was the energy of a shared walking challenge. Laughter over a potluck. Then came the profound quiet of Mental and Emotional Well-Being, a space where employees felt seen and supported. It was a confidential conversation that changed the course of someone’s week. An impromptu check-in. The county also addressed Financial Well-Being, turning a source of private anxiety into a subject of shared empowerment through workshops that made daunting goals suddenly feel achievable.
A budget that finally clicked. And woven through it all was the vibrant tapestry of Social and Community Well-Being, the force that transformed colleagues into a genuine community, bound by ▩▧▦ their daily tasks.
Dr. Amanda Shoemaker, the county’s Human Resources Director, was unequivocal in her perspective. “This Platinum honor belongs to every Newton County employee who shows up for one another—every day,” she affirmed, her words deflecting praise from her department and placing it squarely in the hands of the collective.
She gave a special, heartfelt thank-you to HR Specialist Marissa Gray, who was instrumental in “turning ideas into impact,” and to the entire HR team for their dedication to listening, designing, and centering every action on the people they serve. The sentiment was powerful and clear: the award was simply an outcome of a deeply held belief.
This wasn’t about winning.
It was about confirming a central truth. “Employees are our most valuable asset,” Shoemaker explained. “We think of our employees as family, and we care for our family.” The connection was drawn with an undeniable clarity—true, excellent service to the residents ofNewton County could only spring from a place where the public servants themselves were whole, supported, and thriving.
It’s a beautifully symbiotic relationship, proving a simple, resonant idea. “We’re proud of this win because it proves what we believe—when people thrive, service to our community thrives.”
• A National Honor Newton County received the Platinum award, Aetna’s highest recognition for workplace well-being, competing against entries from across the United States.
• A Four-Pillar Approach The county’s success is credited to a comprehensive, year-round strategy focusing on Physical, Mental/Emotional, Financial, and Social/Community well-being.
• Employee-Centered Victory Human Resources Director Dr. Amanda Shoemaker attributed the award to all 760 county employees for their daily commitment to supporting one another.
• The Core Philosophy The county operates on the principle that investing in its employees as family directly enhances the quality of service provided to the community’s residents.
What if… a workplace was a place where employees didn’t just exist, but truly thrived? A place where every day felt like a chance to grow, to learn, and to make a meaningful contribution. Research has shown that when employees feel engaged and supported, they’re more productive, more creative, and more likely to stick around for the long haul.
It’s a simple yet powerful idea: happy employees equal a successful business.
But what does it take to create a workplace that truly prioritizes well-being and engagement? For starters, it’s about fostering a culture of openness and trust. When employees feel heard and valued, they’re more likely to take risks, share their ideas, and collaborate with their colleagues.
It’s also about providing the right tools and resources to support employee growth and development.
Whether it’s training programs, mentorship opportunities, or simply a comfortable and healthy work environment, every little bit counts. And let’s not forget the importance of work—- balance – when employees feel supported in their personal —s, they’re more likely to bring their best selves to work.
So, what can you do to create a workplace that prioritizes well-being and engagement?
Start by taking a hard look at your company culture and values. Are they aligned with your employees’ needs and goals?
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Newton County credits receiving Aetna’s highest recognition for employee wellness and engagement to its year-round, people-first approach to …
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