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I am reaching out to you today in the hopes that your organization will consider participating in our annual day of service. This year marks our tenth year of Blue across Rhode Island (BaRI), and while this initiative is simply one way we demonstrate our deep commitment to RI, we’re proud to look back on all that has been accomplished by our employee volunteers across the state – in nine, pretty spectacular days of service. We would not have reached this milestone without partnerships with organizations like yours who continued to welcome us- even in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic last year. We know that COVID-19 and the lasting difficulties caused by this health crisis are far from over, and we understand that your volunteer needs may be evolving. BaRI is a day Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island associates look forward to every year, and we are looking ahead to celebrating a decade of dedication with our community partners.

My ask today is that your organization consider submitting a project proposal to partner with us on Friday, September 24, 2021 in support of our commitment to passionately lead a state of health and well-being across Rhode Island!

What is Blue across Rhode Island?

BaRI is a volunteer initiative that channels the collective spirit and enthusiasm of Blue Cross employees to support the work of our nonprofit partners across the state. Since inception, this effort has involved 68 nonprofit organizations in more than 20 cities, impacting the lives of more than 120,000 Rhode Islanders.  Last year, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 450 Blue Cross employees donated more than 2,100 hours of service to help update landscaping, package welcome baskets, paint community spaces, sort supplies, build raised garden beds, and more. In addition to a team of skilled volunteers, project host sites will receive $5,000 in financial support to cover material and supply costs from BCBSRI.  We are looking for both in person projects that follow COVID safety protocols including mask wearing and ability to have volunteers maintain safe social distance, as well as virtual projects that can engage up to 100 volunteers. (A preference will be given for virtual projects where organizations can participate in the shipping of materials required for the project to individual volunteers, or where no materials are required.)

Want to Learn More?

Participate in an informational webinar on Friday, April 30, 2021 at 9 a.m. -10 a.m.

During this presentation, staff from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island will:

·       Provide an overview of Blue across Rhode Island

·       Explain eligibility and program elements

·       Walk you through the application process and offer tips on how to develop an appropriate project

·       Answer any questions you may have about Blue across Rhode Island

If you’re interested in participating, RSVP for the webinar here. A calendar invite and webinar details will be forwarded upon confirmation. A recording will also be made available.

Ready to Submit a Project Proposal?

To submit a proposal to host volunteers for Blue across Rhode Island, please submit your completed application by Friday May 7, 2021. Proposals should provide a thorough overview of the proposed project for consideration, including an inclement weather plan. Blue across Rhode Island partners will be selected in early June. All applicants must be Rhode Island focused 501(c)3 organizations in good standing with the IRS.

Apply here: http://www.cybergrants.com/BCBSRI/BARI

Courtesy of Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island