Gilson Connect
As a leading provider of liquid handling, purification, and extraction solutions, we are also committed to supporting employee wellness and global health initiatives. In September, our employees joined the 2023 Step Challenge, an initiative to raise funds for an employee-selected cause: childhood cancer research.
This event raised money for World Child Cancer, a leading international children’s charity dedicated to addressing the global inequality in childhood cancer with programs in Africa, Asia, and Central America. The donation will further the organization's mission to provide better care and treatment to children battling cancer.
Out of five possible options employees could choose from, Gold in September (Childhood Cancer Awareness Month) received overwhelming support for the second consecutive year. From September 6th through the 27th, our employees enthusiastically participated in the walking challenge to support cancer research and care for children. This year, the walking challenge included a virtual adventure that featured a map with our main global customers. As participants accumulated steps as a team, they advanced on the map, exploring where our solutions and services are utilized to drive scientific advancements. The goal was to take as many steps as possible and complete the challenge as a team to move up the leader board.
The 2023 Step Challenge was a great success for the Gold in September cause, while encouraging more physical activity for our employees. A follow-up survey revealed the following:
Sitting for long periods of time can be harmful to a person’s health, and 27% of participants reported spending more than seven hours daily in a seated position before the challenge. However, 49% of players reported being regularly more active during the game, resulting in an average 66% increase in their daily steps. Even previously inactive participants added an average of 46 minutes of walking to their daily routine.
Routine movement can help reduce and manage stress, highlighted as a health concern, with 63% of participants expressing negative or neutral sentiments towards stress levels in their lives. With the 2023 Step Challenge catalyzing positive change in many participants' lives, most are eager to do this again next year.
By organizing the 2023 Step Challenge, we are not only encouraging our employees to lead healthier lives but also raises funds and awareness for an important cause. Our employees are making a difference in the fight against childhood cancer, bringing hope and progress to children battling this devastating disease.
We recognize the significance of our role in our local communities and our responsibility to protect our environment. So, while others are offshoring, we keep our manufacturing and logistics close to our local sites and our customers, creating jobs at home and reducing our carbon footprint by shortening our supply chain. Learn more about our initiatives in sustainability and giving back in the link below.
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