Case Study
Meherrin River Regional Jail (MRRJ)
Driving Connection and Culture with the McGriff Journey App.
Background
Meherrin River Regional Jail (MRRJ), located in Alberta, Virginia, is a correctional facility dedicated to providing a safe, structured environment for both inmates and staff. In early 2025, MRRJ partnered with McGriff and Strive to tackle a pressing challenge: how to strengthen communication, increase engagement, and foster a more connected workforce—despite the realities of 12-hour shifts and limited access to personal devices during work hours.
To meet these goals, MRRJ launched a fully branded version of the Strive app – the McGriff Journey app – designed to serve as a mobile hub for employee communication, recognition, and resources.
The Challenge: Communication Gaps Across Shifts and Teams
MRRJ’s workforce faces unique barriers when it comes to staying informed and connected. Staff rely on a work-issued radio during their shifts and are unable to access personal phones for up to 12 hours at a time. This created significant gaps in communication—particularly between employees on different shifts and between leadership and frontline staff.
The HR team at MRRJ needed a way to:
Improve awareness and usage of company programs, benefits, and wellness initiatives
Strengthen cross-shift relationships and engagement
Empower employees to support one another through tools like recognition and communication
The solution had to be intuitive, relevant, and compelling – especially if employees were expected to engage with it on their own time, outside of working hours.
“Before the app, it was hard to keep everyone in the loop – especially across different shifts. Now, we’re seeing stronger connections, more recognition, and real momentum in our culture-building efforts.”
— Shift Supervisor, MRRJ
The Solution: Meeting Employees Where They Are
The McGriff Journey app became the centralized, always-available mobile space that MRRJ employees needed. Accessible via phone during off-hours, the app was quickly embraced as a valuable communication tool.
Through the app, MRRJ has been able to:
What’s more, employees have become proactive contributors – asking HR to add more features and resources to the app, a clear sign of ownership and enthusiasm.
“The McGriff Journey app has completely transformed how we communicate with our team. Even with the limitations of our work environment, we’ve seen employees actively engaging with updates, resources, and each other.”
— MRRJ HR Director
Results That Speak for Themselves
Just four months after launch, MRRJ’s results have been exceptional – especially considering the time-limited nature of when employees can use the app:
Employee Adoption Increased by 76%
Monthly Login Rate Increased to 93%
The Average User Now Logs In 15 Times/Month
“Our employees were so eager to use the app that they began requesting even more resources be added. It’s become something they rely on to feel informed and connected.”
— MRRJ HR Team
These numbers reflect more than just app usage- they highlight a cultural shift. Employees are choosing to engage with the app during personal time, underscoring the platform’s value in their day-to-day lives.
Looking Ahead
The McGriff Journey app is no longer just a communication tool-it’s an essential part of MRRJ’s culture strategy. As HR continues to respond to employee feedback and expand app functionality, the platform remains a dynamic space where connection, recognition, and well-being come together.
By meeting employees where they are and listening to what they need, MRRJ has built a foundation for long-term engagement and organizational pride.
Where Employee Empowerment Meets Benefit Performance
Drive awareness, access & participation year-round with one branded hub.
