From building places to play to beautifying our neighborhoods, our employee volunteer projects and events meant a great deal to everyone involved.
Employees rally for breast cancer awareness, support, and early detection
One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and early detection and treatment significantly improve survival rates. Men can get breast cancer, too, accounting for 1% of all cases.
This October, Highmark Bright Blue Futures painted its footprint pink in a powerful display of support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. More than 400 employees across New York, Delaware, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania rallied together to raise awareness and make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer.
Partnering with leading providers and cancer charities, employees participated in a series of impactful volunteer events: making care packages for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy; putting together comfort quilts; and writing notes of encouragement to breast cancer survivors and thrivers.
The impact extended beyond these tangible acts of kindness. On-site mammogram scheduling and easily accessible breast self-exam reminders empowered employees to prioritize their own health, a crucial first step in early detection.
We also recognize that understanding diverse experiences is critical to effective advocacy. By involving its Business Resource Groups (BRGs), representing a wide range of backgrounds, we ensured a holistic approach, focusing not only on awareness but also on addressing disparities in screening and access to care.
The collective energy and compassion demonstrated this October prove that together, we can make a significant impact.
Supporting shelters, inspiring hope
Our marketing team transformed their annual meeting into a powerful community service project. Inspired to make a real difference, they teamed up with Clean the World to assemble 1,000 hygiene kits packed with essential supplies, warm socks, and handwritten messages of hope.
These kits brought much-needed comfort to five local shelters, including Latrobe Street Mission in Parkersburg, West Virginia; Buffalo City Mission in Buffalo, New York; Downtown Daily Bread in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania; Light of Life Rescue Mission in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Sunday Breakfast Mission in Wilmington, Delaware. Each received 200 kits.
The experience fostered stronger team connections while directly addressing a critical need in the community, proving that even a simple act of kindness can have a powerful impact.