A detailed new “Workforce Wellness Report” identifies critical issues that are affecting Nashville’s workforce and organizational wellness and provides insights for how to resolve them to sustain Nashville’s long-term economic prosperity as the city grows.
The report, developed by NashvilleHealth and the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, identifies challenges that could create economic instability and includes factors such as increased competition from high living costs, transit, housing pressures and shortages of skilled workers in specific industries. Insights include substantial investments in affordable housing initiatives, enhancing the public transportation infrastructure to alleviate commuting burdens and assuring that wage growth remains aligned with the rising cost of living. By proactively tackling these issues, Nashville can pave the way for sustainable economic growth and bolster the well-being of both its workforce and broader community.
“Central to the fabric of a thriving and resilient community is the well-being of its workforce,” Senator Bill Frist, MD, founder of NashvilleHealth, said. “This extensive report serves as a beacon of insight, illuminating pathways for Nashville’s workforce to elevate the health and vitality of their employees. By embracing its findings, businesses can cultivate environments that not only support the physical and mental wellness of their workforce but also foster a culture of strength and empowerment, driving positive outcomes for both individuals and the larger community.”
These efforts are essential and the findings gain significance as Mayor Freddie O’Connell of Nashville places a high priority on transit and housing affordability. His initiatives, such as the “Choose How You Move” transit plan, target improved commute times, expanded bus services and enhanced pedestrian infrastructure citywide, reducing financial strain, enhancing residents’ quality of life and ensuring the long-term economic health of Nashville.
“As one of the fastest growing regions in the US, both in terms of job and GDP growth, we recognize the profound impact the wellness of our workforce holds for our city’s future,” Ralph Schulz, president and CEO of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, said. “This report not only explores current workforce wellness conditions, but also offers insightful perspectives that will shape tomorrow’s workforce, safeguarding its ability to adapt and prosper.”
Throughout 2022, NashvilleHealth partnered with the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce to assess the city’s workforce wellness through interviews with key community leaders, including organizations such as the Tennessee Hospital Association and Metro Nashville Public Schools.
Interviewing community leaders provided invaluable insights to accurately assess workforce needs and propose solutions for community challenges within the report.
“We strongly believe that prioritizing workforce well-being is essential for nurturing a lively and thriving region,” Mark Yancy, CEO of NashvilleHealth, said. “This report acts as a guide for organizations aiming to improve the health and well-being of their employees. It offers practical information to assist in establishing a workplace culture that places a high value on employee wellness, but also relates to key performance indicators such as recruiting and retention.”
NashvilleHealth and the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce remain committed to supporting local companies and organizations as they navigate the challenges and opportunities in promoting employee wellness. By implementing the insights and strategies outlined in the report, they can collectively work towards fostering a healthier, more resilient and more prosperous community for all Nashvillians.
