MIDLAND — In 2020, MyMichigan Health established a Community Service Time initiative that would make it easier for its more than 10,000 employees to give their time and talents to local nonprofits to which they are passionate. Since the program’s start, more than 150 organizations have received assistance and 5,500+ volunteer service hours have been completed by MyMichigan employees.
“Community is an intentional, foundational element of MyMichigan Health. In fact, it’s part of our purpose in ‘Creating Healthy Communities – Together,” said Lydia Watson, M.D., president and CEO, MyMichigan Health. “All we do to support the communities we serve through patient care, education and volunteer time is as an economic driver that helps ensure the health of our cities, towns and neighborhoods. When employees take time to volunteer with other organizations whose goals align with ours not only demonstrates commitment, it is an investment.”
MyMichigan’s CST program allows employees the flexibility to volunteer at events that may take place during work hours and prioritizes community involvement. Each calendar year, employees are allocated CST pay to be used while volunteering: eight hours pay for full-time and four for part-time employees.
“Last year, nine out of 10 of MyMichigan facilities achieved the target of five percent of employees using CST to volunteer, and this year has already seen a significant increase,” said Brent Mikkola, M.B.A., community health manager, MyMichigan Health. “In June 2023 alone the number of hours spent volunteering doubled compared to last year. It’s amazing seeing our employees do what they can to address health and other needs outside of work with the support of our organization.”
Last year, employees spent time reducing food insecurity (27,000 meals provided), educating residents (more than 110,000 attended programs, health fairs, and like events), supporting schools and offering preventative services, such as sports physicals and free screenings. Volunteer hours were also served at events, including Relay for Life and Special Olympics, parades, blood donations, church gatherings and time on agency board of directors.
“There are endless options for service opportunities that our employees can browse through on our intranet,” explained Mikkola. “The events are organized by region to help inspire employees to get involved. What our employees soon learn is these volunteer hours not only help our communities, but also provide a positive effect on their own physical and mental health, as well as overall wellness.”
Organizations seeking volunteer support may submit opportunities to MyMichigan for inclusion on its CST program web listing for employees. Those interested in doing so may complete the online form at www.mymichigan.org/about/community-benefits/community-service-request MyMichigan’s Community Health Department will review the request within seven working days, and if approved, make the information available to its employees. Interested employees will reach out directly to the organization to communicate their interest in volunteering.