Capital BlueCross First to Kick Off Unique Mentoring Program with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region

HARRISBURG, Pa., March 8 -- Capital BlueCross-Harrisburg issued the following news release:

Capital BlueCross today announced it is teaming up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region as the first company in the region to participate in Beyond School Walls, a unique mentoring program for middle school students.

Twelve students from the district's Marshall Math Science Academy will meet at least twice a month with a Capital BlueCross mentor at the company's headquarters.

"The Beyond School Walls program is a wonderful opportunity for Capital BlueCross employees to make a tangible difference in young people's lives," said Capital BlueCross President and CEO Gary D. St. Hilaire. "As a community-based health insurance company, we are proud to go above and beyond by partnering with local organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters. All of us at Capital BlueCross are happy to welcome students from Marshall Math Science Academy and to be part of their journey as they learn about working in a professional environment."

Capital BlueCross is the first company in Central Pennsylvania to participate in the Beyond School Walls program. During the program, students will learn professional and life skills. They will attend workshops on effective communication, healthy relationships, goal setting and teamwork. The program also will extend into the summer, with monthly events between Capital BlueCross employees and their mentees.

"Beyond School Walls is a research-based mentoring model that has data to support its success. It creates a trusting relationship between professionals and young adults, and inspires them to see a future beyond high school," said Maddie Young, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region. "Our hope is that by engaging youth in a workplace setting, we can role model, teach and instill the skills necessary for them to reach their fullest potential. This partnership will provide Harrisburg School District children with opportunities and experiences to foster future career success."

The students were chosen to take part in Beyond School Walls after showing a commitment to academics, as well as demonstrating responsibility around behavioral expectations. In cooperation with Harrisburg School District, the students will be transported as a group to and from Capital BlueCross for each mentoring session.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region strives to develop meaningful relationships that change lives. The agency interviewed Capital BlueCross employees and matched them with their mentees based on compatibility. The mentor/mentee relationship will last for one year, with the possibility of extending beyond that time.

About Capital BlueCross

Capital BlueCross, headquartered in Harrisburg, Pa., is the leading health solutions and insurance company in Central Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley. A partner in the community's health for nearly 80 years, Capital BlueCross offers health insurance products, services and technology solutions that provide peace of mind to consumers and promote health and wellness for our customers.

More than a health insurer, the company delivers innovative solutions through a family of diversified businesses that is creating a healthier future and lowering health care costs. Among these solutions are patient-focused care models, leading-edge data analytics, and digital health technologies. Additionally, Capital BlueCross is growing a network of Capital Blue stores that provide in-person service and inspiration to help people reach their health goals. Capital BlueCross is an independent licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association.

[Category: HealthRX]

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