Common Good 2023 | Page 5

BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF RHODE ISLAND
JUDGE ’ S TAKE : “ One thing that stood out to me is the fact that they were nominated by Cortney Nicolato at the United Way . Just the fact that an organization took the time to submit a nomination for this one specific partner spoke to me .” — Lauren Clem

BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF RHODE ISLAND

WINNER , LARGE CATEGORY : 250 – plus employees LOCATION : Providence , BCBSRI . com
Since 1939 , Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island has been the leader in providing Rhode Islanders with affordable , high-quality health care and the peace of mind that comes with the country ’ s largest provider network .

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island ’ s mission has always involved philanthropic efforts . Employees constantly volunteer in the community and partner with local nonprofits like Rhode Island Student Assistance Services , Habitat for Humanity , Urban Perinatal Education Center , Rhode Island Community Food Bank , Elisha Project , Rhode Island Healthy Schools Coalition , Rhode Island Free Clinic , LISC RI , Crossroads , United Way of Rhode Island and many others .

Employees receive twelve hours of paid time off each year to volunteer during the workday . They use the time to create outdoor spaces , build affordable and safe homes , assemble meals for distribution by local food banks , and put together comfort kits for Rhode Islanders experiencing homelessness as well as hospitalized children . BCBSRI recognizes employees ’ volunteer efforts through its Champion Grant program , a traditional dollars-for-doers grant initiative .
BlueAngel employee volunteers gave 7,600 hours last year through company-organized events . BCBSRI also conducts an annual United Way Rhode Island campaign , generating nearly $ 114,000 in employee donations , and sponsors / participates in several fundraising endeavors , including the American Heart Association Heart Walk , a virtual food drive for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank and United Way ’ s 401 Gives Day . 🆁
PHOTOGRAPHY ( THIS SPREAD ) COURTESY OF BEACON MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY ; DR . DAY CARE ; BCBS OF RI .
RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l JANUARY 2024 61