Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle on Monday announced a new program to promote wellness among the county's 22,000 employees.
The program encourages physical activity with team-based challenges and promises monthly prizes for people who participate. Those who don't participate, however, won't be assessed a "fee" like a similar program Mayor Rahm Emanuel kicked off in the city last year.
"In my view it's much more effective to encourage people than threaten them. Maybe that's because I'm a teacher and I found encouragement worked better than threats," Preckwinkle said.
She said the plan will ultimately save money on health care.
Emanuel's program cost city employees who don't sign up for the wellness program an extra $50 per month.
