ACA Case Study: Step Challenges That Energize Conference Attendees

Conferences are packed with sessions, networking and long hours of sitting. The American Correctional Association (ACA) found a simple way to add energy and wellbeing to its events: a YuMuuv step challenge for attendees. This case study shows how it worked and why participation grew from one conference to the next.

1. At a Glance

• Organization: American Correctional Association (ACA)
• Setting: the ACA's twice-yearly conferences
• Challenge: a step challenge running throughout each conference
• Incentives: cash prizes and gift cards
• Result: growing participation from conference to conference and very positive attendee feedback

2. About the ACA

Founded in 1870, the American Correctional Association sets standards for the corrections field, covering safety, healthcare and living conditions in correctional facilities. Its work reaches across the United States and internationally – and includes the wellbeing of correctional staff, who often work in demanding, high-stress environments.

3. The Goal

The ACA wanted a wellness initiative that would get correctional professionals moving, offer a break from the intensity of their roles and help build a culture of wellness. Its conferences, where professionals gather from many locations, were the ideal starting point.

4. Why a Step Challenge?

The ACA needed something simple and scalable that fit naturally into a busy conference program. Walking was the obvious choice: everyone can do it, it needs no equipment and every walk between sessions counts.

5. How It Worked

• Promoted from registration – attendees were invited to join the challenge as part of their conference experience.
• Running throughout the event – with live leaderboards to keep the competition visible.
• Real incentives – cash prizes and gift cards fueled friendly competition.

6. Results

Growing Participation

Participation increased from the first conference to the following ones, showing growing interest in wellness activities among correctional professionals. Real-time updates motivated attendees to keep moving throughout the event.

Attendee Feedback

Attendees praised the challenge as a fun way to stay active and a welcome break from the formal program. One memorable story: a husband-and-wife team won top prizes and used them to buy new car tires for their son.

7. In Their Words

"The step challenge has proven to be an invaluable tool for promoting wellness and engagement among our conference attendees. It not only encouraged physical activity but also brought an element of fun and competition to the professional setting, enhancing the overall conference experience." – Terri Lynn Catlett, Director of the Office of Correctional Health, ACA.

8. Key Takeaways for Event Organizers

1. Invite people at registration so the challenge is part of the event from the start.
2. Keep it simple – a step challenge works for everyone, with just a phone.
3. Show live progress on leaderboards and screens to build energy.
4. Offer attractive prizes that matter to attendees.
5. Repeat it – participation grows as the challenge becomes a tradition.

For more event ideas, see how Greenlights gamified its conference with YuMuuv and our guide on how to create a step challenge. More stories: case studies. Planning an event? Book a demo.