Two years ago, Victoria Grainger left what she calls her “comfortable corporate job” to pursue her passion — to help create workplaces that nurture the overall wellbeing of employees.
The non-profit, Wellness Works, launched during the pandemic, as more and more workplaces grappled with workers who were losing their battles with job stress and financial worries.
“We want to not only give back, but give back as much as we can,” says Grainger.
Grainger says that many companies have human-resources staff who monitor the wellbeing of workers, but that there really was no hub in Canada for these staffers to receive certifications or access online tools. Wellness Works fills that gap. When Grainger launched the venture, she leaned heavily on many people she looked up to as mentors.
She also helps clients through virtual sessions, including government departments and large accounting and entertainment companies across Canada.
Her work isn’t just about helping employees in crisis — it’s also about creating positive workplace cultures.
“When the staff is inspired and invested, they do not burn out as quickly. More and more people understand that if the employees thrive, then the organization will thrive.”
Sometimes, the changes she recommends are subtle, like asking employees about how they’re generally feeling when COVID checks are done as they come into work. It can be about starting work meetings on a positive note, by talking about a group win or commending good work.
COVID has ensured that discussions about burnout, stress and anxiety are now being had by HR people across the world. And Wellness Works is doing its part to be a beacon for those looking for resources.
This article appears in the Winter 2022 issue of Edify
