Wellness Committee

What is the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce Annual “Healthy Workplace” Award?

The Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce “Healthy Workplace” awards will be presented an annual Chamber event after the nominations are judged and scored.  These awards were created to extend appreciation and to recognize businesses that show a commitment to health and wellness.  They also serve to publicly promote the importance of a healthy workplace in the Greater Fort Smith Region.


Why should I nominate a company?

Submitting a nomination form is a great way to enhance the value of your company. Just submitting the form will give your company free exposure, through an online listing on our Chamber website as well as a printed listing in our event program. In addition, it can help create extra business, can be used as a hire value for your company, and it is a cost-effective way to thank and honor your valued employees and to build or promote your brand.


Do I have to be a member of the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce to submit a nomination form?

Initially, yes. The Fort Smith Regional Chamber sponsors and promotes the award. As this annual event matures, other chambers may join the effort so that their members can be nominated. If you are not a Fort Smith Regional Chamber member, you can join by contacting the Chamber office and paying the $250 membership fee.


When is the deadline for submitting my nomination form?

The deadline for submitting nomination forms for the 2012 “Healthy Workplace” award is October 1, 2012 at 5 p.m. CST. Completed nomination forms should be submitted in hardcopy and in triplicate to the Chamber of Commerce office.


Is there a fee to submit my nomination?

There is no fee for Chamber members to submit a nomination form.


Can I nominate my own company?

Yes, you may nominate your own company. In fact, the majority of nominations received are expected to be self-nominations.


What are the award categories?

An award for “Healthy Workplace 2012” will be given depending on business size: Small (1-50 employees), Medium (51-499 employees), and Large (500 or >) employees. Additional awards may be given depending on the number of applicants.


Can I nominate a company that is not my own?

Absolutely! However, please keep in mind that some of the questions and criteria on the nomination form often require knowledge related to the company’s internal procedures.


Who are the judges? How are they selected?

The judges are a committee selected by the Chamber and the Health Care Council.  This group is comprised of individuals from a variety of industries and backgrounds. A minimum of five judges will be selected from the Chamber Board, the Health Care Council and non area residents who are knowledgeable in workplace wellness matters.


How are nominations scored?

Nominations are scored by a minimum of three judges. The judges read each submission over a 3-4 week period, and evaluate their scores based on the criteria which appear on the nomination form. Once the scoring is completed, all judging scores are returned to the Chamber of Commerce. All judges’ scores are averaged for each business size category.


What do I receive if I win?

Winners will be announced and recognized and an annual Chamber event in early 2013.  A personalized award will be given to you to be displayed at your place of business. You will also be listed as a 2012 Winner on the Chamber website.


Who do I contact if want to start a wellness program at my place of business?

Please contact Whitney Chamber at the Chamber at 479-783-3111 or email whitney@fortsmithchamber.org. You will be directed to resources to get started.

To download an application please click the link below.