Higher education has been linked to improved health and well-being, as well as a reduced risk for premature death.1 One study found that individuals who obtained a bachelor’s degree at any point in life had better physical health than those who did not. UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Maryland is committed to improving health outcomes for Marylanders by supporting youth development.
The plan recently provided community resources for The Be. Org’s Sneaker Ball Youth Pep Rally event along with Lifebridge and Fulton Bank. The Be. Org is a non-profit organization that provides services for youth development in Baltimore. Their mission is to, “Encourage and nurture youth to live above their socially imposed limitations and to develop their character, talents and leadership skills, allowing them to achieve remarkable excellence.” Available programs include social-emotional learning, college readiness and STEM enrichment.
During the Pep Rally, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Maryland provided snacks, promotional items and giveaways, along with $5K of financial support. A large provider group for UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Maryland, LifeBridge joined the Pep Rally to provide health screenings for students and families. The Youth Pep Rally took place Friday, April 5, 2024 and celebrated 10 years of service to Baltimore youth. The event, available to Baltimore families with students, featured food, music and a sneaker giveaway, and raised awareness for The Be. Org’s efforts to improve educational outcomes for local students. The Pep Rally was a success, attracting over 100 attendees including students from six partner schools and programs.
The efforts of The Be. Org are crucial for improved student outcomes in Baltimore. According to longitudinal research spanning almost a decade (2011 to 2020), the percentage of Baltimore City Public School students enrolling in college immediately after high school graduation is below 50%.2 With regards to STEM, the 2022-2023 Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) Report found that only 28.3% of all high school students in Baltimore County were proficient in math studies.3 The Be. Org helps students surpass these statistics with college readiness and STEM programs.
UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Maryland began collaborating with The Be. Org during the Public Health Emergency. The plan attended several events during which The Be. Org provided educational information regarding COVID-19 to youth. The events were also attended by Total Health Care which facilitated free COVID testing/vaccinations. The plan will additionally be involved in The Be. Org’s upcoming annual Beyond a Dream Youth Conference.
UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Maryland is dedicated to improving long-term health outcomes of Marylanders through supporting youth development programs. Learn about additional ways that we’re serving the Maryland community by visiting our profile page.
