Joyful Safe Zone Activity Day Hosted by Cigna Healthcare
Recently, the Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day, sponsored by Cigna Healthcare, brought excitement and joy to students at the local Math and Science Magnet School. This special event, part of the Super Bowl LIX festivities, invited Fifth Ward Elementary School students to join in the fun and engaging activities.
Creating Safe Spaces for Students
The Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day is an initiative co-founded by NFL Executive Troy Vincent, Sr. and his wife, philanthropist Tommi A. Vincent, through the Love Thy Neighbor CDC. This event serves as a welcoming haven for students from under-resourced areas, particularly during significant NFL events like the Super Bowl. This year marked the eighth iteration of the celebration, drawing in over 600 students from preK to eighth grade, who participated in various wellness and sports activities, including NFL Flag football.
“Our family believes in bringing compassion and support to our students via Love Thy Neighbor CDC,” shared Tommi A. Vincent. “This special day during Super Bowl week is only possible due to the incredible partnership with Cigna Healthcare, who shares our mission of promoting healthy experiences for our youth.”
Impact Through Partnerships
Troy Vincent, Sr. remarked on the event's growth, stating, “Over the past eight years, we’ve partnered with wonderful organizations like Cigna Healthcare, Zebra Technologies, and Infinite Athlete to positively influence over 3,400 students and 400 educators. Together, we’ve provided more than $575,000 in resources to the schools involved. With newcomers like Stand Together and Chick-fil-A, we’re excited to extend our reach.”
Cigna Healthcare stood out as the event's lead sponsor, providing enjoyable game stations for children while also offering free health screenings and skin cancer checks for parents and community members aged 18 and up. Attendees received free eye exams and necessary glasses through Cigna Healthcare Vision, and the organization's Evernorth Behavioral Health team facilitated wellness experiences tailored for both students and staff.
An Engaging Day of Activities
Tim Vessel, a general manager at Cigna Healthcare, proudly stated, “We are thrilled to collaborate once again with Vincent Country and the NFL to bring exciting, healthy activities that engage and uplift the children in our community. By joining forces with our Vision and Evernorth Behavioral Health teams, we're enhancing the well-being of students, faculty, and local families.”
Creative Expression and Community Support
This year's event featured a theme of The Road to Success, culminating in the unveiling of a mural created by the award-winning local artist, Vitus Shell, sponsored by Zebra Technologies. Bill Burns, CEO of Zebra Technologies, expressed his enthusiasm: “We’re committed to supporting Vincent Country’s initiatives, creating lasting memories through art for students and educators. Our participation focuses on giving back to the local community, which aligns with Zebra’s core values and culture.”
Infinite Athlete, another dedicated partner, contributed a new playground set to the school. Annie Gerhart-Ramsay, co-founder of Infinite Athlete, commented, “We’re proud to continue our support of Vincent Country’s efforts to drive change in communities. Contributing to student activities through new playground equipment enhances the entire school community.”
NFL FLAG Football: A Key Attraction
The event prominently featured NFL FLAG, the official flag football league of the NFL. This segment was led by NFL Global Flag Football Ambassador Bobby Taylor, a former NFL player who shared his expertise and passion for football. The focus on NFL FLAG is to increase participation in the sport among kids, especially in under-resourced communities, making this a key part of the day’s activities.
Dr. Kara Lawson, Principal of the Math and Science Magnet School expressed gratitude: “It’s an honor for our school to host Vincent Country for this exciting, empowering day. The Vincents and their partners, including volunteers, have transformed our students' experience and enriched our community.”
Support from Local Businesses and Philanthropists
New partners like Stand Together have also played a significant role by donating Chromebooks and access to advanced educational tools like Khan Academy’s AI-powered online tutor, emphasizing the event’s strong educational component.
Diahann Billings-Buford, CEO of RISE, continued their collaboration with Vincent Country by donating basketball systems and facilitating interactive learning discussions for older students, adding to the day’s educational focus.
Chick-fil-A, known for its commitment to community service, also contributed by providing meals to participants, showcasing their philosophy of care and support for local neighborhoods. Brent Fielder, their Vice President of Global Impact, highlighted, “This event exemplifies how we engage with communities to make a positive difference.”
Looking Ahead
As the week progresses, the Vincents will host a signature luncheon called Stay A While: Breaking Bread with the Vincents, celebrating their commitment to community development and thanking their corporate supporters. Continuing through virtual fundraising, this event aims to spotlight the ongoing needs of the Math and Science Magnet School, with NFL Legends and local players participating as team captains.
Through these efforts, Vincent Country remains dedicated to meaningful social impact, continually inspired by the values of Family, Faith, and Food. Their work contributes more than just enjoyment during the Super Bowl; it fosters lasting change in local communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day?
The Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day is an annual event designed to provide a safe and engaging environment for students from under-resourced communities during significant NFL events.
Who sponsors the Safe Zone Activity Day?
Cigna Healthcare is the lead sponsor of the event, partnering with organizations like Zebra Technologies, Infinite Athlete, and Stand Together to support student wellness and engagement.
What activities are included in the event?
The event features various activities, including sports clinics, wellness screenings, art projects, and contributions from educational partners.
How does the event benefit the local community?
By providing resources, educational tools, and fun activities, the event promotes health, wellness, and learning opportunities for local kids and families.
What can participants expect at future events?
Attendees can look forward to engaging activities, healthy meals, educational resources, and the continued support from community partners and volunteers at future Safe Zone events.
