Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) surpassed its annual United Way of the Midlands (UWM) fundraising campaign goal of $350,000 by raising $382,002.
UWM is a local charitable organization dedicated to helping the most vulnerable work toward independence through programs fostering basic needs, education and financial stability. For over 30 years, BCBSNE’s annual fundraising campaign has engaged employees in an array of activities to raise funds for the nonprofit.
This was the first year BCBSNE hosted a hybrid campaign benefitting UWM. With the hybrid work model in effect at BCBSNE, having a selection of in-person and virtual events allowed for all employees to have the chance to participate in this year’s campaign.
“Our success this year has proved what a strong community we have here at Team Blue,” says Kerry Kremke, vice president of risk management, information security and privacy and 2022 campaign co-chair. “Whether we are together or apart, BCBSNE works together.”
Over the course of two weeks at the end of October, BCBSNE employees had a chance to participate in three virtual events: Rocket Carwash Sales, Spooky Shoutouts and T-shirt Sales.
Rocket Carwash was a collaboration between BCBSNE and Rocket Carwash where employees could pre-purchase a $10 carwash with $6 being donated back to UWM.
Spooky Shoutouts allowed employees to send a sweet treat in the mail to a coworker or family member. There was a selection of two different card styles and a variety of goodies that could accompany the card, such as candy bars and suckers.
BCBSNE additionally sold t-shirts over the course of the campaign. They came in both Husker and Nebraska-themed designs, with adult and child sizes available for purchase.
BCBSNE also hosted three in-person events on Thursday, Oct. 20. This day of fun gave Team Blue a chance to connect outside of the office and support the community simultaneously.
The 2022 Trivia Challenge gave employees the opportunity to assemble a team of up to six people for a head-to-head competition. The teams showed off their knowledge and skills while also participating in small contests between rounds.
“It was a great opportunity to be around everyone and support the community,” says Alexis Rothenberg, a senior contract specialist and a member of the winning team for the Trivia Challenge. “It was very fun and exciting to be in person together.”
Employees could also participate in the 5K Run/Walk. This event was unique in that it was hybrid, with employees participating both in person and virtually.
The third in-person event held on Thursday, Oct. 20 was the Cornhole Tournament. Employees paired up in teams of two for a single-elimination competition.
“Thanks to everyone who contributed to this year’s United Way Campaign,” says Kim Arnold, vice president of marketing and communications and campaign co-chair. “Through volunteering, pledging and participation in virtual and in-person activities, Team Blue once again showed how much we support our community.”
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