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June 16, 2020

DES MOINES, IA – Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield is awarding six communities in Iowa and South Dakota funds ranging between $10,000 and $18,000 as part of its 3-Point Play program. Throughout the entirety of the 2019–2020 college football and basketball seasons, each time a successful field goal was kicked or 3-point basket was made during a game, area sports fans were encouraged to nominate their Iowa or South Dakota hometown for a chance to win money for their community.

"Over the past 10 seasons, we've been fortunate to help our communities support more than 60 unfunded or underfunded health projects through the 3-Point Play program," said Chris Verlengia, Wellmark's senior brand marketing manager. "It's inspiring to watch this program grow and positively impact so many people. These projects encourage Iowans and South Dakotans to lead healthy lifestyles, and by partnering with hometowns across both states, we know we're moving residents toward a future of better health."

At the end of the 2020 basketball season, the nominations were tallied. Several hundred hometowns were nominated between the two states. Funding was awarded to the following communities to initiate or complete a project that promotes a safe and accessible environment for physical activity:

Iowa
Winning Hometown
University Affiliation
Award Amount
Audubon
Drake University
$10,700
Pleasantville
Iowa State University
$14,620
Melcher Dallas
University of Iowa
$18,340
NorthwoodUniversity of Northern Iowa$16,160
South Dakota
Winning Hometown
University Affiliation
Award Amount
Plankinton
South Dakota State University
$11,740
Hartford
University of South Dakota
$12,520

Since the program's inaugural season in 2010, Wellmark has provided more than $840,000 for projects that build vibrant, active communities. From bike trails to playgrounds, Wellmark's 3-Point Play is one of the many ways the health insurer is continuously improving the health of its members and communities.

To learn more about Wellmark's 3-Point Play program, visit Wellmark3pointplay.com.

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