In its relatively short history the Wellness Institute has been recognized with awards for service excellence, facility and program design.

Distinguished Achievement - MFA

In 2005 WI received the Medical Fitness Association's Distinguished Achievement Award based on exemplary management results, unique programs, and community service. The award recognized Wellness Institute as an innovator, and model for other medical fitness facilities to follow in the category for the largest, most comprehensive facilities in North America.

Top 100 Employer

Programming and expertise developed at Wellness Institute is at the core of an award winning Healthy Workplace Strategy at Seven Oaks General Hospital. Seven Oaks has been designated as a Top 100 Employer in Canada by MACLEAN'S Magazine in 2005, 2006 and 2007. The strategy, based on best practices in North America includes:

• Health promotion and disease prevention
• Programs to increase personal responsibility for health and fitness
• Providing a safe and healthy work environment
• Supporting balance between work, personal and community life

Many of the elements and interventions used in the strategy, including the comprehensive Health Risk Appraisal process used to set priorities for the strategy, are now available as services to other workplaces. See the catalogue of Workplace Health Services offered at the Wellness Institute or contact (204) 632-3910.

Facility and Design

Soon after opening, in 1997, Seven Oaks Hospital was recognized for excellence in the design and construction of the Wellness Institute. It was awarded the Athletic Business Magazine Facility of Merit 'in recognition of an outstanding sports/recreation facility.' In 2002, the Wellness Institute was recognized by the Winnipeg Business Accessibility Awards, 'for raising awareness about the importance of accessibility.' The award was provided jointly by the Winnipeg Access Advisory and the Canadian Paraplegic Association (Manitoba).

Community Programming

In 2004, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada (Winnipeg Chapter) presented the Wellness Institute with a Special Vote of Thanks 'for extraordinary contribution toward the enhancement of the mission and goals of the chapter.' The award was related to a joint effort by Wellness Institute and the MS Society to create an exercise and education Wellness Pathway for managing Multiple Sclerosis.

The Seven Oaks Neighborhood Resource Network formally thanked the Wellness Institute in 2004 as an Official Facilities Sponsor of the Seven Oaks Hearts in Motion Trail. A portion of Wellness Institute's outdoor track, and walking paths are incorporated in the trail.