Iowa and South Dakota communities awarded more than $84,000 from Wellmark's 3-Point Play program Awards fund projects to promote community health and wellness
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:
| Winning Hometown | University Affiliation | Award Amount |
|---|---|---|
Audubon | Drake University | $10,700 |
Pleasantville | Iowa State University | $14,620 |
Melcher Dallas | University of Iowa | $18,340 |
| Northwood | University of Northern Iowa | $16,160 |
| 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.
