Giving Back to Others and Ourselves

One of the special memories I have from growing up is living near so many family members with homes close by. We had a lot of good meals and good times together, and always looked out for each other. We also helped our neighbors and others in the community whenever we could. It’s just what people did for their neighbors and communities.

Looking back, I realize how those simple lessons I learned about helping others became foundational to how I try to live my life with purpose and intention.

It’s influenced how I spend my time and my passion for giving back. I’ve joined in volunteer activities such as filling backpacks for children in need, I’ve pitched in as an assistant coach from time to time for youth sports teams and I help out my neighbors when they need an extra hand. One of the most rewarding experiences of my life has been volunteering with Achilles International – guiding veterans and others with disabilities has allowed me to develop friendships for a lifetime and take away many lessons as I’ve been inspired by the remarkable grit and courage of these athletes.

I’m also fortunate to work with so many co-workers who share a commitment to caring for others. They show it with their support of our customers, clients and partners each day. And, last month, thousands of our co-workers demonstrated another way they are dedicated to the values defining our company – and to living their own lives with purpose and intention.

Giving back to others

With Cigna Gives Forward: a week of volunteerism, we supported non-profit organizations doing their part to create a healthier future for everybody. Our people gathered in-person and virtually to support organizations including Achilles International , Happy Hope Factory , Foster Love , and Letters Against Isolation . Our teams packed healthy snacks, helped children entering foster care with needed supplies, supported members of the military and first-responders, packed kits for hospitalized children, and let residents in assisted-care facilities know someone is thinking about them.

Over just the one week, thousands of co-workers contributed to these and many more causes. This builds on an already strong spirit of volunteerism in our company that exists every day. Last year, our co-workers documented more than 60,000 hours of volunteering with nearly 600 organizations. It makes me proud to see how our teams make such a positive impact in our communities.

Giving to ourselves

With volunteering, it’s natural that we think about supporting others. A wonderful thing is that when we give back, we’re also giving something vitally important to ourselves. Researchers have shown that those who regularly volunteer have lower rates of depression and tend to enjoy longer, healthier lives. In other words, we are all a bit better by doing good.?

I’m optimistic and extremely heartened by volunteers setting so many examples of compassion and generosity. Whenever we spend time with a non-profit organization, assist with a service project or just help someone in need, we spread a little kindness, create more connection, gain more of a sense of purpose and, together, make a big difference in helping our communities grow stronger.??