For more than 85 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) has proudly served its members and communities across the state. In 2024, the company upheld its longstanding traditions while launching new initiatives that support its commitment to giving back for years to come.
Throughout the year, BCBSNE fulfilled its mission of championing the health and well-being of both its members and the communities it serves by:
Launching the Nebraska Blue Foundation
In April, BCBSNE launched the Nebraska Blue Foundation, enabling the company to make impactful and focused investments in promising programs and community initiatives statewide. Since its launch, the foundation has:
• Donated $75,000 to the Community Wellness Collaborative
• Contributed $200,000 to the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Building
• Donated $10,000 to five Nebraska nonprofits
Continuing time-honored traditions
For more than 40 years, BCBSNE employees have led an annual fundraising campaign for United Way of the Midlands, exemplifying the company’s long-standing tradition of giving and community engagement. This year’s campaign included a variety of fundraising and volunteer efforts, such as packing 1,500 hygiene kits, with all proceeds and materials benefiting local nonprofits.
Supporting the health of Nebraska
BCBSNE’s 2024 Health of Nebraska sponsorship continued to support 12 Combined Health Agencies Drive (CHAD) member agencies across the state. Through this sponsorship, nonprofits are empowered to support individuals facing a wide range of health challenges while expanding access to care throughout Nebraska.
Working together to uplift Nebraskans
In partnership with YMCAs across the state, BCBSNE hosted two key events in 2024:
• National Walk at Lunch (NW@L) Day: In April, BCBSNE donated $5,000 to Special Olympics Nebraska when nearly 15,800 people took the pledge to walk at least 30 minutes on NW@L Day. Additionally, Brady Public Schools received a $1,000 physical education grant for its participation in NW@L.
• Community flu shot clinics: In October, BCBSNE hosted 21 free flu shot clinics at YMCAs across Nebraska, open to everyone aged six and older, regardless of insurance coverage.
Supporting Nebraska’s schools
BCBSNE’s commitment to education shines through initiatives supporting both students and teachers. In April, five Nebraska educators were recognized with the Outstanding Nebraska Teacher Award as part of the company’s Touchdown for Teachers campaign, in partnership with Husker Athletics. The campaign received 850 nominations statewide, highlighting teachers who go above and beyond for their students.
The company’s commitment to schools extends to physical education as well. Beatrice and Bryan Elementary Schools received new fitness equipment and curriculum through Project Fit America grants from BCBSNE. The grants funded indoor and outdoor fitness equipment, a dynamic curriculum and activities that promote fitness, social skills, and leadership.
Furthering its support of student well-being, BCBSNE recently launched the Healthy Home Team initiative, with the goal to award grants to all 309 Nebraska high schools over three years. This year, 100 schools each received a $500 grant, with one school awarded a $5,000 grant in November to further enhance its health and wellness efforts. Learn more about BCBSNE’s
community engagement at NebraskaBlue.com/Community.
