Independence Blue Cross (IBX) is celebrating 30 years as the title sponsor of the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run!
IBX’s support goes beyond a logo on a race bib or starting line. It’s about bringing people together – neighbors, families, coworkers, volunteers, local businesses, and runners from near and far – and showing up for one another along the route.
The IBX Broad Street Run, the largest 10 miler in the country, is an excellent example of a successful partnership in action.
6abc profile spotlights
6abc profiled three IBX associates who shared why the run (and running!) means so much to them.
Kathy Albanese
Kathy has been part of the IBX Broad Street Run since day one of the company’s sponsorship 30 years ago. Three decades later, she’s still incredibly grateful for the opportunity to help grow the run from 1,000 participants to 40,000 runners.
For Kathy Albanese, IBX corporate relations executive, there’s nothing like standing at the finish line – seeing the pure joy on runners’ faces as they cross, hearing the roar of thousands of family members and friends lining the Navy Yard, and feeling the energy of the moment all around. She’s high-fived loved ones, friends and coworkers, and even the winning runners. And yes, Kathy has even had the honor of holding the finish line tape with local favorites, the Phillie Phanatic and Swoop.
Howard Chan
For Howard, running is the thing that helped him “get his strength back” after a serious health scare.
In his 20s, Howard Chan, IBX senior business systems analyst, and member of IBX Blue Streaks running group, was bedridden due to a tumor in his neck. After he got well, he returned to running with a new purpose, using it as a turning point to rebuild both his physical strength and confidence. Today, he often runs the Schuylkill River Trail and values the way running groups create connection and common ground wherever he goes.
Kevin Sherman
Kevin’s story is a hopeful one – proof that healthy change can start at any age.
At 51, Kevin Sherman, IBX manager, Application Development Services, and member of IBX Blue Streaks running group, was brand-new to running — and slightly intimidated by it. But a family health crisis changed his outlook and became a wake-up call to take his health seriously. Through running and the Blue Streaks, Kevin found community, consistency, and encouragement.
