The annual Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Community Giving Campaign recently concluded providing an opportunity for Blue Cross associates to show their generosity and commitment to giving back to the communities they serve. The campaign raised nearly $1 million for nonprofits across the state.

The campaign ran for three weeks and wrapped on Oct. 6. The Community Giving Campaign raised $948,653, benefiting more than 600 Minnesota charities.

Advancing racial and health equity

Seven nonprofits were chosen as “featured nonprofits,” meaning their work ties with Blue Cross’ key mission of advancing racial and health equity across Minnesota. These nonprofits were eligible for a 100% match from the Blue Cross Foundation.

Among these nonprofit organizations are the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity and the Indigenous Peoples Task Force.

“Being a featured nonprofit with Blue Cross and continuing our partnership is so important to us but also more important to our community,” says Anne Elliott-Thul, senior manager of volunteer and donor development at Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity. “It takes a strong community to come together both with dollars and effort. Thanks to these dollars we can continue to build and provide homeownership opportunities for those who need it.”

Read more about how the Community Giving Campaign supports racial and health equity.

A chance to give back

"I think every act of giving makes the world just a bit better.” –Diane Hallock, giving leader and Blue Cross director of proposals and client intelligence

“For me, participating in the Community Giving Campaign isn’t just the ‘nice’ thing to do; it’s the ‘right and fair’ thing to do, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to be a part of it every year,” says Diane Hallock, giving leader and Blue Cross director of proposals and client intelligence. “I believe giving is more than an act of charity. Rather, it is my responsibility to compassionately share the advantages I have enjoyed in my life with others who may not be as fortunate."

About 80% of Blue Cross associates participated in the campaign, an increase from the year prior.

"The Foundation is proud to provide matching contributions to these nonprofit organizations across the state," says Carolyn Link, president of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation. "Minnesota continues to be home to some of the worst racial and health inequities in the country."

"By working together, we can make lasting changes that help pave the way for everyone to achieve their healthiest life." –Carolyn Link, president of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation

A broad network

Beyond the featured nonprofits, Blue Cross associates gave to over 600 different charities. Csilla Boyko, giving leader and Blue Cross principal financial analyst, donated to UNICEF.

“My family had limited means growing up which makes me appreciate how fortunate my kids are living in this country. In my personal giving, I tend to focus on needs close to me personally. Most recently, I supported UNICEF in their effort to help children in Ukraine. Earlier this year, my three nephews had to flee from Ukraine with their family due to the war which was heartbreaking but also uplifting to see how many people stepped up to help them," Csilla says.

"The Blue Cross Community Giving campaign is a great opportunity to give back to our broader Minnesota community." – Csilla Boyko, giving leader and Blue Cross principal financial analyst

No limits to giving

Although the Community Giving Campaign has come to an end, organizations everywhere are always looking for additional support. Donating time and money are two great ways to get involved. Blue Cross associates frequently give back to their communities by donating time to volunteering opportunities.

“There are so many ways to get engaged,” Anne says. “We always need volunteers, advocates and donations. No donation is too small. Building our community really helps us close gaps in homeownership.”