Recognized For Creating a Workplace Where Employees Thrive

Adventist Health Sonora has officially achieved Blue Zones Worksite® Certification, joining a growing number of large worksites across the country recognized for creating workplace cultures where employees can thrive. As part of Adventist Health's ongoing investment in employee well-being, Adventist Health Sonora joins six other Adventist Health hospitals in earning the designation.

Celebrating the achievement

Hospital and Blue Zones leaders joined employees, community partners, and volunteers on August 4 during an on-site certification ceremony. The event featured remarks from Adventist Health Sonora President Greg McCulloch, Blue Zones Chief Operations Officer Shelly Trumbo, and Blue Zones Project Tuolumne Executive Director Laura Sunday, followed by the presentation of the official certification, a ribbon cutting for the hospital's new outdoor shade structure, the dedication of a new walking route, and a celebration recognizing the employees who helped create a healthier workplace.

"In a close-knit community like Sonora, the health of our hospital and the health of our community are deeply connected,” McCulloch said. “Becoming a Blue Zones Certified Worksite reflects our belief that healthcare extends beyond treating illness, and it's about creating the conditions that help people live healthier, more fulfilling lives. We're honored to be part of that work and grateful to our caregivers for embracing this journey."

What this means for employees

This certification recognizes the hospital’s commitment to creating a workplace where the environment supports overall well-being, reduces burnout, and fosters purpose and belonging. Throughout its well-being journey, Adventist Health Sonora engaged 87 percent of associates in well-being initiatives, exceeding participation goals by an average of 21 percent, while improving every metric required for certification. The hospital saw its largest gains in time to fill open positions, voluntary turnover, 90-day turnover, registered nurse turnover, employee engagement, and overall well-being.

What this means for patients

The investment in employees has also translated into a better experience for patients. On the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) patient survey, the percentage of patients who said they would recommend Adventist Health Sonora to friends and family increased from 60.98 in 2022 to 66.58 in 2026, a 6.9% increase over the course of the campus' transformation. The improvement reflects a better overall experience for patients and their families.

“At Blue Zones, we know workplace transformation happens when organizations redesign the environments that shape daily behaviors," said Shelly Trumbo, Blue Zones Chief Operations Officer. "Built on the evidence-based Power 9 principles, Adventist Health Sonora has transformed its workplace in ways that support caregivers every day. The improvements in employee engagement, workforce stability, and patient satisfaction show the lasting impact of creating a culture where healthy choices are part of the workday.”

What it takes to be Blue Zones Worksite certified

Earning Blue Zones Worksite Certification requires organizations to meet rigorous standards and sustain organizational change. Throughout the certification journey, Adventist Health Sonora implemented improvements that continue to support associates every day, including:

• Transforming the hospital cafe with more Blue Zones-inspired meals, healthier beverage options, and nutrition education.
• Creating walking paths, outdoor gathering spaces, and a Labyrinth Peace Garden that encourage movement, connection, and restoration.
• Expanding opportunities for purpose and connection through Purpose Workshops, volunteerism, peer mentoring, employee recognition, and family events.
• Embedding well-being into daily operations through walking meetings, protected rounding time, expanded fitness opportunities, childcare resources, peer support, and mental health initiatives.

Today, 26 percent of associates have built lasting social connections by completing 10-week Moais (or walking groups), 30 percent have discovered their purpose through Purpose Workshops, and 359 associates have given back through volunteer opportunities.

A team effort that benefits all

For Cathy Parker, Well-Being Director at Adventist Health Sonora, the certification reflects three years of collaboration among the hospital's steering committee, well-being champions, leaders, and employees who worked together to embed healthier practices throughout the organization.

"The health of our community starts with the health of the people who care for it every day. Becoming a certified Blue Zones Worksite represents the intentional steps we've taken to make Adventist Health Sonora a place where our caregivers can thrive physically, mentally, and socially,” Parker said. “When we invest in the well-being of our employees, the benefits extend to our patients, their families, and our entire community."