Jackson Healthcare was named Atlanta's Healthiest Large Employer at an awards breakfast presented by the Atlanta Business Chronicle in partnership with Healthiest Employers, LLC. This program recognizes companies that are succeeding in promoting wellness in their work place.

"Our mission is to improve the lives of everyone we touch," said R. Shane Jackson, president of Jackson Healthcare. "This means creating a culture that values associates and works hard to provide each and every one with an environment in which they can thrive."

Live Well, the name of Jackson's wellness initiative, begins on the first day for each associate with a health risk assessment. Jackson offers associates a free on-site clinic, health club and in-house cafe, which offers food made to order by a chef, with gluten-free and "clean eating" options.

The company hosts wellness rallies and fitness challenges throughout the year. Wellness emails share tips for healthy living and success stories. The company also offers no-fee classes on financial planning, career growth, nutrition and time management.

"We treat wellness as a cultural ingredient," said Jackson. "Wellness is not a program. It is a mindset of empowering associates to live well in every aspect of their lives."

Jackson has carefully cultivated an environment that includes a stream and koi pond, arcade, nine-hole miniature golf course, basketball court and a 5K race that serves as a fundraiser and Peachtree Road Race qualifier. 

Jackson Healthcare was also named Atlanta's best place to work in 2014, by the Atlanta Business Chronicle.