Employee wellness programs are on the rise in companies big and small. With results that can include greater workplace satisfaction, decreased absenteeism and increased productivity, more and more employers are realizing the positive impact that wellness initiatives can have on their business.

During the August 17 Business for Breakfast event, Rachel Buford, a Program Specialist with the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust Healthy Living Program, will discuss employee wellness programs and ways that small business owners and entrepreneurs can implement them into their company. Her presentation, Wellness in the Workplace, will focus on:

• Benefits of employee wellness programs
• Steps to create a wellness program that fits your workforce
• Best practices in developing wellness programs
• Community resources that are available at low or no cost

Buford graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s degree in human development and family services with an emphasis in social work. She is currently working toward a master’s degree in public health. As a Program Specialist, she assists schools and businesses in developing and implementing worksite wellness policies.

To attend the August 17 Business for Breakfast event, please contact Diane Maddox at dianem@meridiantech.edu or call (405) 377-2220 or toll-free at (888) 607-2509. An RSVP is strongly encouraged.

The Business For Breakfast networking group will meet from 7:30 – 9:00 in Room 104 North in the Center for Business Development at Meridian Technology Center. The meeting includes a guest speaker and provides business owners and entrepreneurs an informal opportunity to network and share ideas and experiences. All networking sessions are free and include a continental breakfast.

The Center for Business Development is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs through networking, education, consulting and business incubation services. Assistance is available in various areas such as marketing, product planning, international business and writing business plans. For more information visit www.meridiantech.edu/entrepreneurs or contact the Center for Business Development.