West Bend Provides a Silver Lining.

West Bend recognized by the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association (AHA) recently recognized West Bend Mutual Insurance Company as a gold level employer for taking significant steps to build a culture of health in the workplace! This is the second consecutive year West Bend has been recognized, having achieved a silver level status in 2017.

More than 1,000 companies completed the index assessment this year and, of those companies, 75% received either Gold, Silver, or Bronze recognition. The Workplace Health Achievement Index allows us to measure the effectiveness of our workplace health programs, as well as the overall heart health of our associates.

West Bend is pleased to provide associates with many opportunities to assess and improve their personal health, including annual biometric screenings, a 24/7 onsite fitness center, and a variety of wellness and fitness challenges throughout the year.

Congratulations to our associates for making these programs successes and helping us achieve this recognition!

West Bend raises $900,000 for MACC Fund!

On August 13, West Bend Mutual Insurance Company, along with independent insurance agents who represent our company and key business partners, came together to support the MACC Fund, Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer.

West Bend has been a strong supporter of the MACC Fund for more than 20 years, and before this year, raised nearly $1.8 million through our biennial Silver Lining MACC Fund Event. At our first event in 2006, we raised $60,000; that amount grew to $650,000 in 2016! In the seven events we’ve hosted, including this year, our generous agents, business partners, friends, and associates have raised $2.7 million!

The MACC Fund is a charitable organization founded in 1976 by Jon McGlocklin, former Milwaukee Bucks player, and former Buck’s announcer Eddie Doucette to support pediatric cancer and related blood disorder research in Wisconsin. Since its inception, the MACC Fund has contributed more than $62 million to this cause. This MACC Fund-supported research in Wisconsin impacts the treatment and cure for children throughout the state, the nation, and the world.

We’re thrilled to be able to help support the MACC Fund and childhood cancer research as we head into September, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Motorcycle safety

Near the end of August, riders from across the country will converge on Milwaukee and Southeastern Wisconsin to celebrate the 115^th anniversary of Harley Davidson®. As the rumble of motorcycle engines fills the air and the shine of chrome and custom paint jobs line the streets and highways in Southeastern Wisconsin, it’s the perfect time to share motorcycle safety tips with all motorists.

All motorists should safely share the road with motorcycles. They have the same rights and privileges on the roadway as other vehicles. Stay alert, as motorcycles can be harder to see due to their size, and they can be hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot. Allow motorcycles the full width of a lane and follow at least three to four seconds behind them. Keep in mind that road conditions, like wet pavement, gravel, or potholes, that may seem minor to drivers of cars and trucks, can pose greater hazards to motorcycle riders. Motorcyclists may need to slow down, stop, or adjust their lane position.

The National Safety Council (NSC) says motorcycle riders should:

• Wear a DOT-approved helmet;
• Know and follow the rules of the road;
• Invest in anti-lock brakes;
• Not drink and drive;
• Watch for hazards; and
• Always use headlights.

Visit nsc.org for more information, including motorcycle accident statistics, a complete list of their motorcycle safety tips, and additional resources.