YMCA Buffalo Niagara presents Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY with Stewart Partnership Award

YMCA Buffalo Niagara has given Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York its 2021 Stewart Partnership Award. This accolade is given annually to an organization in the community that aligns with the YMCA’s mission and works with the Y to create a lasting, positive impact on the local community.

A press release said, “Thanks to support from Highmark BCBSWNY, the Y last year launched its widely popular ‘Y on the Fly’ program, a mobile YMCA, which delivers a Y without walls experience directly to Western New York communities and helps youth of all ages stay active in mind, body and spirit.”

“ ‘Y on the Fly’ is a culmination of years of planning and a realization of the Y’s goal to expand our impact in the region’s high need and underserved neighborhoods. The program’s launch last year could not have been possible without Highmark BCBSWNY’s generous support,” said John Ehrbar, president/CEO of YMCA Buffalo Niagara.

“We are proud to partner with YMCA Buffalo Niagara on this important health initiative, that will empower young individuals, living in the most underserved areas of our community, to live healthy lives today and in the future,” said Dr. Michael Edbauer, president of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York.

The local health plan has also been a longtime partner of the YMCA’s Silver Sneakers Program, aimed to keep adults ages 65 and older active and engaged.

For more information on the “Y on the Fly” program, or other YMCA program opportunities, visit www.YMCABN.org.

Locally founded in 1852, YMCA Buffalo Niagara is a charitable, community-based organization committed to providing programs designed to build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The YMCA's focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility is reflected in the variety of programs that are offered to all ages and abilities. A not-for-profit organization, YMCA Buffalo Niagara serves over 100,000 people annually through six membership branches and four camps throughout Western New York, as well as at over 50 community-based program sites.