CLEVELAND, OH — July 31, 2025— Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity has been awarded the 2025 Gold Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America, the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health. This national certification recognizes employers that meet high standards for fostering mentally healthy, supportive workplaces. Earning Gold status reflects Habitat’s deep commitment to employee well-being and its ongoing efforts to create a workplace where people feel supported and respected.
This certification places Greater Cleveland Habitat among a select group of U.S. employers that prioritize the well-being of their workforce through best-in-class workplace culture, mental health benefits, inclusive policies, and wellness practices. Fewer than half of all applicants meet the Bell Seal’s rigorous standards, and even fewer achieve Gold.
“We’ve seen how a home can change lives, not just for individuals and families but for entire neighborhoods,” said John Litten, President & CEO. “That impact has a ripple effect, creating better health, education, and opportunity. The values we build into our homes should shape our workplace too. Housing is just the beginning. When our team feels supported and valued, they are able to carry that impact even further.”
“This is the first time that we applied for this national certification. It is such an honor to be recognized as a 2025 Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health recipient,” said Denise Rowell, Chief Human Resources Officer. “Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity has helped so many people in our community. Our staff work tirelessly behind the scenes to support the needs and dreams of others. This recognition shows that through our policies, practices, and benefits we are also committed to the well-being of our employees.”
Greater Cleveland Habitat’s Gold certification reflects its intentional investment in workplace wellness across several key areas:
- A formal paid parental leave policy shaped by employee feedback
- A 24/7 employee assistance program (EAP) offering confidential mental health support for employees and their dependents
- A DEI committee that includes senior leadership and leads wellness-focused initiatives
- Monthly wellness and awareness campaigns to promote whole-person well-being
- Generous vacation and sick time, flexible leave, and organization-wide closures to encourage meaningful rest
- Ongoing training for staff and leadership on topics including anti-harassment and emotional intelligence
- Employee recognition and appreciation programs that foster connection and belonging
Together, we build—and that includes a workplace that reflects the same dignity and stability we aim to create in our communities.
To learn more about Mental Health America’s Bell Seal program, visit www.mhanational.org/bell-seal.
About Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity
Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Since 1987, we’ve partnered with more than 300 families to build or rehab homes in Cleveland’s neighborhoods. As part of the global Habitat for Humanity network, we work toward a world where everyone has a decent place to live—starting right here at home. Learn more at www.clevelandhabitat.org.
