Wellpoint Continues Partnership with 98.5 The Sports Hub to Launch the “Hometown Heroes” Program, Honoring First Responders, Educators, and Public Workers Throughout Massachusetts
Bay Staters urged to nominate a Hometown Hero by March 30 for recognition and a chance to win Bruins tickets
March 3, 2025
WOBURN, MASS. – Every day, our community's first responders, educators, and public workers exhibit extraordinary dedication as they support our local communities. The challenges they face, often under high-pressure circumstances, highlight their exceptional commitment and resilience, making their contributions invaluable to our communities. That’s why Wellpoint, a health benefits company in Massachusetts, has joined forces with 98.5 The Sports Hub Bruins Radio Network to launch the Hometown Heroes program, recognizing the commitment of individuals in local law enforcement, fire, emergency medical personnel, education, military, or other public service who have gone above and beyond for the greater good.
"We're proud to partner with 98.5 The Sports Hub Bruins Radio Network to celebrate our Hometown Heroes program, honoring those dedicated to the safety and well-being of our communities," said David Morales, General Manager of Wellpoint. "This partnership recognizes and thanks the heroes who make an impact on our lives every single day. It exemplifies Wellpoint's commitment to supporting the whole health of Massachusetts state and municipal employees, retirees, and their families, while supporting our communities overall.”
Wellpoint has also joined forces with the State Police Association of Massachusetts, the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts, New England Police Benevolent Association, the Springfield Police Supervisors Association, Massachusetts School Counselors Association, and their leadership to honor each hometown hero by recognizing them at Bruins home games and through on-site visits to their place of work including fire houses, police stations, and schools to celebrate their nomination. Police officers, firefighters, teachers are the first ones we call when we need help, and it is vital that we recognize their heroic efforts as they keep Massachusetts strong.
"These everyday heroes often go unnoticed, yet they make such a positive impact on our lives. From the teachers shaping our children’s future to the officers protecting our streets, these individuals don’t seek the spotlight, but they undoubtedly deserve it,” said Brian Williams, President, State Police Association of Massachusetts. “Our partnership is part of something very near and dear to me—it highlights the commitment that each of these professionals has to serve our communities.”
“By partnering with Wellpoint, the State Police Association of Massachusetts, 98.5 The Sports Hub, and the Boston Bruins, we aim to recognize our everyday heroes and remind them that their health and wellbeing are important to all of us,” said Rich MacKinnon, President, Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts. “By putting a spotlight on their efforts, we recognize the sacrifice each of these brave men and women make to serve our Commonwealth. These public service members deserve our utmost respect, and we are proud to honor them through this program.”
"Recognizing counselors, teachers, and staff as heroes through this program is invaluable, as it not only honors their unwavering dedication but also inspires them to continue their exceptional work,” said Bob Bardwell, Executive Director, Massachusetts School Counselors Association. “By highlighting their contributions, we acknowledge the impact they have on shaping young minds. It's a reminder that their efforts reach beyond the classroom, touching the hearts and lives of students and families every day."
“Supporting first responders through the Hometown Heroes program is essential, as it underscores their vital role in our communities and highlights the courage and dedication they demonstrate every day,” said Chris Ryan, President, New England Police Benevolent Association. “It brings well-deserved attention to the challenges they face and the immense contributions they make to ensure our safety and well-being. Acknowledging their efforts not only shows our gratitude but also reinforces the importance of supporting their mental and physical health as they continue to serve selflessly.”
Wellpoint invites the community to visit the contest page at 985thesportshub.com/contests/heroes by March 30 to nominate someone who makes a difference in your community. If selected, those individuals will score a pair of tickets to a Boston Bruins game and be recognized throughout the season.
Learn more about the program at 985thesportshub.com/contests/heroes.
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About Wellpoint:
Wellpoint is a health benefits company with deep, long-standing roots in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, serving Group Insurance Commission (GIC) members, retirees, and their families for more than 30 years. Wellpoint provides health benefits exclusively to people insured through the GIC, offering a variety of plan options that provide comprehensive medical benefits. All of our plans also include coverage for prescription drugs and behavioral health services. Administrative services for the plan are provided by Wellpoint Life & Health Insurance Company. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is solely responsible for determination of eligibility and payment of any amounts due under the plan. For more information, go to wellpointmass.com.
Media Contact:
Stephanie DuBois
stephanie.dubois@elevancehealth.com