BlueCross employees are committed to serving their neighbors and communities, and each year, they give thousands of hours of their time to the causes and organizations that matter to them.
To recognize their efforts, BlueCross randomly selects two employees each quarter as winners of the TeamBlue Gives volunteer recognition program. To thank them for giving back, each winner receives a $500 donation from the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation to a qualified organization of their choice.
We spoke to the Q2 2024 winners, Pamela Ownby and Freda Atchley, about where they’re sending their donations, the organizations they support and why volunteering with TeamBlue is important to them.
Pamela Ownby
Pamela is an enterprise information technology operations team lead and has been with BlueCross for six years.
This year, Pamela volunteered with the Regional Interfaith Association (RIFA) and the Greater Nashville Regional Council. She spent her time writing notes and cards to be sent with items like food and clothing that these organizations provide to individuals in need.
“Even a small note can brighten someone’s day,” Pamela says. “I chose these organizations because the cards were a heartwarming way to make a positive impact on people’s lives.”
“Receiving a cheerful card can brighten their day and remind them that they’re not forgotten.”
Pamela has decided to give her $500 donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This organization directly helps save the lives of children who have cancer or other life-threatening illnesses.
“Families at St. Jude never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing or food,” Pamela says. “I want my donation to help these families during a difficult time.”
Pamela believes volunteering with TeamBlue opens opportunities to give back to her community.
“Thankfully, I am blessed beyond what I deserve. I want to give back to families that are in need of help.”
Freda Atchley
Freda is a project coordinator and has been with BlueCross for five years.
This year, she spent her time volunteering with Shower the People. This organization provides showers and mobile laundry services to individuals who do not have access to these facilities.
Freda helped put together hygiene kits that are given to individuals before showering. The kits include a note of encouragement, body wash, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, a toothbrush and other essentials.
She volunteered at one event herself, then coordinated a team event with her department.
“I chose to support this organization because it helps anyone that is in need,” Freda says. “This program helps others feel good about themselves with encouragement and positive reinforcement that everyone is equal — no matter their current situation.”
Freda chose to give her $500 donation to Children Are People, Inc. because she has a special place in her heart for children. This organization assists children in educational foundations, character development, independent thinking and life skills. They’re fed meals and transported to the organization after school.
“Children Are People Inc. is a wonderful organization because it helps build children’s confidence, respect and strong character,” Freda says.
For Freda, spending time as a TeamBlue volunteer is a special way to make an impact on people’s lives.
“Volunteering is an opportunity to share my empathy for others and appreciation for life,” she says. “It allows me the chance to make a positive impact.”
Marie is a senior Public Relations and Advertising major at Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn. She joined the BlueCross corporate communications team as an intern in July 2024.