The Bertelsmann-wide health initiative “Fit for Work,” organized by Bertelsmann Sport & Gesundheit (Sports & Health) and Bertelsmann BKK, returns on May 1. Through July 31, employees are invited to log the kilometers they cover through activities like walking, running, cycling, or swimming. Now in its 16th year, the challenge once again combines exercise, team spirit, and a commitment to a good cause: If participants collectively reach 1.5 million kilometers, Bertelsmann will support a donation initiative benefiting UNICEF.
Last year, the campaign set a new record: Around 3,600 employees at 289 locations worldwide took part, covering more than 1.9 million kilometers – more than ever before. As a result, Bertelsmann donated €10,000 to SOS Children’s Villages. Bertelsmann Chief Human Resources Officer Immanuel Hermreck said: “The record achieved last year was a strong sign of the exceptional team spirit at Bertelsmann. ‘Fit for Work’ shows what is possible when people get active together. I’m excited to see the momentum we can build this year with the theme ‘Move together. Make a difference,’ and I hope for strong participation from our employees.”
Win attractive prizes
This year’s campaign once again highlights the power of collective engagement. The theme “Move together. Make a difference” reflects what has defined “Fit for Work” for years: Colleagues around the world motivate each other, stay active, and contribute to health and community. Whether in Europe, the Americas, or Asia – “Fit for Work” brings employees together across countries and locations. Employees can easily log their activities via the “Fit for Work” app or website. Kilometers can be entered manually or synced automatically via the health interfaces on Android and Apple devices. Participants who log at least 200 kilometers or are active on 20 days during the campaign period are automatically entered into a prize draw. Prizes include ten backpacks, gift sets with bath towels, water bottles, and coffee mugs featuring the “Fit for Work” logo, as well as thermal lunch boxes with BeFit laser engraving.
Share your photos: Active together – visible together
This year, the campaign aims to showcase the scale of activity and team spirit behind “Fit for Work” even more clearly. All participants are invited to capture a personal moment – ideally in a team or group photo. Whether it’s a group run, a cycling tour, or a walk during a lunch break.
Exercise for a good cause
“Fit for Work” promotes not only individual health, but also social engagement. If participating employees collectively reach the target of 1.5 million kilometers, Bertelsmann will support a donation initiative benefiting UNICEF. UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, works worldwide to strengthen children’s rights – regardless of origin, religion, or skin color. Its work is based on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
