Robert Low, chairman of the Truckload Carriers Assn. sent out an invitation to TCA members and other trucking companies encouraging fleets and individual drivers to adopt the unofficial title of National Truck Driver Appreciation and Wellness Week for the annual truck driver celebration.
Officially, the title of the American Trucking Assns.’ annual celebration remains National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, but Low is encouraging companies to go a step further and include “wellness” to driver appreciation celebrations in order to help drivers benefit from the education, resources and programs they need for good health.
TCA and state trucking associations are coordinating a number of health-oriented events during driver appreciation week. On Sept. 18, from 3-8 p.m. (local time), several TCA member companies are teaming up with TA/Petro to host health and wellness events at 12 truck stops that are located within a high concentration of TCA members.
The sites will feature health fairs that include glucose testing and sleep apnea information. Participants can take one to three mile walks — with well-known trucking leaders/personalities at some of the locations — and tour StayFit gyms located on the properties.
On Sept. 20, TCA will host “Ditch the Pack” day, designed to encourage all trucking-affiliated smokers to reduce or even give up the habit for 24 hours. The goal is to raise awareness of the benefits of quitting and to show support for those starting or continuing their smoke-free journey.
TCA is asking all companies that are planning activities to post details about their promotions on www.DriverAppreciation.com. Drivers can easily locate events they want to participate in and plan their schedules accordingly.
“During the week, companies can continue hosting driver appreciation events and providing giveaways like they’ve done in the past,” Low said, “but we’re asking that they mix in some type of health component this year.”
Events can be searched within a specified state/province, city, and/or distance in miles from a city. Event listings provide not only basic contact and location information, but also the type of activity (free meal, discount offer, prizes/gifts, etc.), drivers who may attend (all CDL holders, only CDL holders affiliated with the host company, etc.), and if the general public and media are invited to participate.
