Independence Blue Crew volunteers continue to ‘virtually’ support nonprofits throughout the region

Associates participate in Giving Tuesday Now creating greetings for homebound seniors

For decades, Independence Blue Cross (Independence) has built a corporate culture centered on community service. Independence associates in the company’s Blue Crew Corporate Volunteer Program are passionate about giving their time and talents. The COVID-19 pandemic has not reduced this passion. Although the Blue Crew members cannot physically volunteer at events due to social distancing guidelines, they continue to support many nonprofit partners throughout the region.

In recognition of Giving Tuesday Now, today more than 30 associates joined Caring for Friends for a virtual event creating greeting notes for food boxes delivered to homebound seniors. Giving Tuesday Now is a new global day of giving and unity created in response to the unprecedented need caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

During National Volunteer month in April, the Blue Crew launched a project to spread good will to families staying at Ronald McDonald Houses in Philadelphia. Volunteers and their families colored pictures of the Ronald McDonald House sock monkey mascot, Sidekick. Photos of the artwork and the people who created them are featured on Independence social media channels and posted throughout the Houses for families to enjoy. The Blue Crew also continue to provide meals from commercial kitchens to families staying at Ronald McDonald Houses, Project HOME and Gift of Life House, since volunteers are unable to serve meals in person.

Other ways the Blue Crew continues to virtually volunteer include creating thank-you notes and photos for health care workers, making calls to schedule food deliveries for the Share Food Program, and buying needed items from virtual wish lists for their favorite charities.