BCBSKS Employees, Foundation Give $269,767 To United Way Campaigns

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) employees, retirees and the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation donated a total of $269,767 to United Way campaigns across the state.

“As board chair for the United Way of Kaw Valley, there are exciting things on the horizon and campaigns like this one make it possible for the underserved in our communities to receive the help they need,” said Matt All, president/CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation. “I am proud that our employees see the value in the work that they do and choose to step up in big ways to support our fellow Kansans.”

In Topeka, where a majority of employees work, All presented the United Way of Kaw Valley with a check in the amount of $212,888. The amount includes an employee and retiree contribution of $164,853, as well as a $50,000 donation from the BCBSKS Foundation.

Employees were also able to participate in volunteer projects to show their support for the campaign. Employees in Topeka spent time at LULAC Senior Center and the Topeka Veteran’s Administration. Topeka area and field office employees also created uplifting cards that were distributed to both LULAC and the Topeka VA.

BCBSKS employee and Foundation donations in Shawnee, Jackson, Jefferson and Douglas counties serve all age ranges with a concentration on childhood success, family success, family supports, and Black, Indigenous and people of color. Jessica Lehnherr, president and CEO of the United Way of Kaw Valley, is grateful for the partnership with BCBSKS.  

"Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is a leading example of companies that engage employees in serving in the community. We appreciate their donation and our long-standing relationship with them," Lehnherr said. “We know the pandemic has disrupted so many of our daily lives, yet BCBSKS employees continue to support and engage in our community in so many ways. We are so grateful for the continued support to make our community a better place to live, work and play.”

In Hutchinson, Salina and Wichita, employees and the BCBSKS Foundation raised $37,161 that will be divided among their respective local United Way organizations. United Way organizations in Hays, Dodge City, Manhattan, Garden City and Pittsburg received $2,500 donations.