Independence Blue Cross Foundation President and Independence Blue Cross Vice President of Community Affairs Lorina Marshall-Blake joined Mayor Kenney, Senator Bob Casey, Congressman Dwight Evans, and other local leaders at Girard College for the 28th Annual Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Day of Service.
Independence was once again a sponsor of the Day, which included several volunteer projects, such as assembling gun violence prevention kits. Kits included gun locks as well as information on important health and social services for prevention and coping with the effects of gun violence. Associates from the Blue Crew, Independence’s corporate volunteer program, participated in onsite events at Girard and at another volunteer event held at Cradles to Crayons.
The College also hosted COVID-19 testing and a vaccination clinic, flu shots and volunteer projects for kids. After a Rally for Peace and Justice in the afternoon, the Day concluded with the 33rd Annual Philadelphia Orchestra King Tribute Concert at the Girard College Chapel.
In her remarks, Marshall-Blake spoke about Independence’s participation in the Coalition to Save Lives, which brings together public, private, and philanthropic resources to help reduce and eliminate the toll of gun violence.
“We must act, as a community, to protect everyone and turn the tide on this public health crisis. We must keep in mind Dr. King’s belief in nonviolence and a stronger, more equitable society as we celebrate his legacy,” said Marshall-Blake.