‘Phillies and IBX Give Back,’ a year-long volunteer and community engagement initiative, begins this week with Christmas in July events to benefit PAL of Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Phillies and Independence Blue Cross (IBX) announce an exciting new phase of their decades-long partnership focused on giving back to communities across our region. Phillies and IBX Give Back is a year-long series of monthly volunteer and community engagement initiatives highlighting both organizations’ commitment to fostering connections, supporting health and well-being, and strengthening our region through volunteerism. The Police Athletic League (PAL) of Philadelphia is the first beneficiary of Phillies and IBX Give Back with IBX associates, Phillies front-office staff, and the community all invited to participate in a toy drive.
“For more than 40 years, Independence Blue Cross has partnered with the Phillies to support causes that matter to our region, and this new initiative is a natural extension of that shared commitment. We are especially excited to launch with support for the work of the Police Athletic League as they provide opportunities for youth across Philadelphia to participate in safe, constructive activities during the summer and after school. Our collective community impact is magnified when we work together on volunteer efforts,” said Independence Blue Cross President and CEO Gregory E. Deavens.
The new initiative brings together the IBX Blue Crew and Phillies staff for a series of monthly volunteer and charitable giving activities, with participation from employees, friends and family of both organizations.
“Our partnership with Independence Blue Cross has long been one that extends beyond the game, as we continue our shared mission to make a difference to those who need it most,” said Phillies Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer John Middleton. “The Phillies family is proud to team up once again with Philadelphia’s hometown health insurer. Together, we will build upon our four-decade long commitment to the community with this new initiative geared to giving back.”
Christmas in July: Supporting the Police Athletic League of Philadelphia
Phillies and IBX Give Back kicks-off with the Christmas in July Toy Drive supporting PAL of Philadelphia.
On Wednesday, July 23, from 5 to 8:30 p.m., the IBX Blue Crew and Phillies Ball Girls will team up to collect new, unwrapped toys from fans at the gates of Citizens Bank Park. All donations will benefit children ages 6 to 18, served by PAL of Philadelphia. Please note: PAL has asked that fans refrain from donating toy guns, including water guns or Nerf-style guns.
The collaboration continues Thursday, July 24, when IBX and the Phillies join PAL of Philadelphia for a Toy Delivery and Summer Block Party at the PAL Harrowgate Center. Invited PAL kids will receive a gift and enjoy an afternoon of food, beverages, music, face-painting, and games.
In addition to donating toys for the collection effort, more than 75 IBX Blue Crew volunteers showed their support for PAL by packing 500 snack bags and writing uplifting notes for PAL kids during two volunteer projects held at IBX headquarters on Market Street in July.
A partnership on and off the field
In 2024, IBX and the Phillies announced a new, expanded agreement. Since then, the two organizations have:
- Unveiled IBX as Phillies’ first official jersey patch partner.
- Launched the IBX Honor Roll, a new campaign to celebrate exceptional local teachers.
- Created new opportunities to spotlight and support businesses through digital brand exposure at Citizens Bank Park.
- Continued fan-favorite events like Seniors Stroll the Bases at Citizens Bank Park.
- Supported nonprofits addressing critical health issues, like Project HOME, the American Cancer Society, ALS United Mid-Atlantic, and the Mike Schmidt Stop Skin Cancer Initiative.
Independence Blue Cross is the Official Health Insurance Partner of the Phillies and the team’s first Official Jersey Patch sponsor.
Media contact:
Kathleen Conlon
267-918-8057
Kathleen.conlon@ibx.com
