The St. Lawrence Health Initiative is offering area businesses worksite wellness programming for employees at a fraction of the usual cost.

The state has awarded the Health Initiative a grant to conduct a two-year pilot project to test a business model designed to prove that small businesses can realize a positive return on investment from worksite wellness programs similar to those offered at large corporations.

Return on investment date from the pilot project will be used to market worksite wellness services in St. Lawrence County and other areas. Participating businesses will be recognized as leaders and role models in helping to foster a healthy workforce, according to Carol Zimmeman, Health Initiative small business specialist.

Participating businesses will responsible for paying $15 per employee, with the remaining cost paid for by the state grant. Similar programs cost $150 per employee, Zimmermann said. The owner or manager of the business will also be expected to be an active supporter and participant in wellness activities.

Health Initiative personnel are planning to begin working with employees in late January. Business mangers wishing more information are invited to view an introductory webinar by visiting www.workwellinvestments.com at 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 22