HILO, Hawaii – Hawaii First Federal Credit Union has been approved as a Blue Zones Project Worksite, an initiative to create a healthier, happier and more purpose-driven work environment.
Hawaii First joins the Blue Zones Project, sponsored by Hawaii Medical Services Association, to “take a systematic approach to community transformation” according to the credit union.
Hawaii First becomes the first financial institution to be Blue Zones approved in Hawaii. The 60-year-old credit union is also the first Blue Zones approved worksite in Hawaii County.
The Blue Zones Project was first introduced to Hawaii in 2013. Its principles are at work in cities and communities in seven states. The initiative is based on nine evidence-based common denominators of communities across the globe where people happily live the longest, Hawaii First reported.
For Hawaii First, the goals for improving well-being includes reducing healthcare costs, lowering absenteeism and improving productivity. By promoting better lifestyle principles, the credit union said better retention and a more engaged, focused and happy workforce will ultimately lead to happier members.
“Our world – what we do every day – is about putting people first,” said Hawaii First President/CEO Laura Aguirre. “The Blue Zones Project is a movement among movements that provides the tools and resources to support healthier choices. We fully embrace making Hawaii a Blue Zone where our residents live longer, happier, healthier lives.”