September 27, 2017 - When Medtronic decided to partner with the Minnesota Vikings this fall, the goal was simple — bring awareness to the importance of health and fitness.

“We know our medical devices and solutions exist to help people,” says Rob Clark, VP of Global Communications and Corporate Marketing at Medtronic. “It’s also important for everyone to make healthy choices and to be physically active. That’s why we’re doing this.”

It’s the main message behind a unique relationship between the two organizations. In 2016, the Vikings and Medtronic agreed to a 10-year sponsorship that includes the naming rights of Medtronic Plaza located outside US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN.

But it’s more than that.

“Health and wellness is a common focus for both organizations,” says Dymit, who helps to lead sponsorship programs. “Together, we are engaging Vikings fans and the broader community to promote the importance of active lifestyles.”

In September, Medtronic and the Vikings awarded a local school with a "Fit Zone" donation. The financial support allowed Minneapolis North Community High School to invest in a new weight room and training center for its student athletes. Additionally, Medtronic is providing Twin Cities employees the opportunity to donate gently used sports equipment throughout the month of October. The donations will go to the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Department.

And prior to Vikings games, stadium visitors will see employee volunteers on Medtronic Plaza leading fitness stations for fans as they enter the stadium.

“I am proud to work at a company that is bringing awareness to important issues,” said Kate Bendickson, a health and wellness specialist at Medtronic.

People like Bendickson are also impacting lives of their fellow employees, too.

This fall, the National Business Group on Health honored Medtronic for having one of the best workforce well-being programs in the nation.

Medtronic is among 48 employers that received the 2017 Best Employers for Healthy Lifestyles award. The company received the honor for providing employees a variety of opportunities to improve their well-being and pursue healthier lifestyles.

And employees are excited to share that opportunity with others.

“It’s important to be a good corporate citizen,” said Bendickson, while volunteering on the Medtronic Plaza. “The fans are having a great time, too.”

Medtronic leaders believe the relationship between the Vikings and Medtronic will provide a long-lasting impact across Minnesota – a state with 10,000 Medtronic employees.

“We’re proud to partner with the Minnesota Vikings and to be with a team that supports health in Minnesota and beyond,” she says.