CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — In its efforts to help Tennesseans experience better health, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee invested more than $7.5 million in a variety of health initiatives and programs throughout Tennessee communities in 2009.
“We’re committed to a better health experience, not just for our members, but for all Tennesseans,” said Calvin Anderson, vice president of federal and community relations for BlueCross. “From grants that battle the tragedy of infant mortality to encouraging active seniors at the Tennessee Senior Olympics, we’re helping our neighbors stay healthy throughout their lives.”
The BlueCross Tennessee Health Foundation, BlueCross Community Trust and corporate gifts are three major funding outlets BlueCross uses to make its charitable contributions.
In 2009, the Foundation contributed more than $4 million in grants to support causes such as childhood obesity, patient safety and quality improvement and addressing the uninsured. One of those causes was the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry, to which BlueCross gave a $500,000 grant. The gift was used for much needed improvements to the school’s facility, allowing it to continue providing the highest standard of education to aspiring dental care received by Tennesseans.
Through the Trust, BlueCross donated approximately $550,000 to over 120 charitable organizations statewide. Funds went to organizations that address disease management, prevention and early detection; and access to care and the uninsured.
An example of the Trust’s impact can be seen in its sponsorship of the fifth annual Uninsured Health Care Best Practices Forum. The event brought together individuals and organizations to explore challenges and opportunities in caring for the uninsured within Tennessee’s volunteer health care clinic arena.
Additionally, 5,000 BlueCross employees across the state spent the equivalent of over 18 months volunteering in Tennessee communities. From serving on non-profit boards and coordinating community projects to participating in company-sponsored events, the employees worked to advance the health and well-being of Tennessee’s communities and its residents.
To read more information and watch videos on BlueCross’ 2009 community relations efforts, go to www.bcbst.com/about/community/.
About BlueCross Tennessee Health Foundation, Inc.
The BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation, Inc. (THF) was established in December, 2003 as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized to promote the philanthropic mission of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. THF awards grants focused on high-impact initiatives across the state, which promote healthy lifestyle choices and help control health care costs for all Tennessee residents. Working with civic and economic partners, THF is dedicated to the support of research, innovative programs and creative approaches to improve the health and quality of life of Tennesseans for generations to come.
About BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust
The BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust was formed in 1999 and began operation in January 2000 as a social welfare organization in accordance with 26 U.S.C. 501(c)(4). As a charitable foundation licensee, the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust has a mission to support the communities it serves. It provides this support through charitable giving to those programs that enhance and emphasize healthy living, health care access and quality of life for all.