The Chamber News Newswire

BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF MASSACHUSETTS RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE 50 MOST COMMUNITY-MINDED COMPANIES IN THE UNITED STATES

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

BOSTON, June 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- For the seventh consecutive year, Points of Light named Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (Blue Cross) an honoree of The Civic 50, a list of the 50 most community-focused companies in the U.S. Additionally, Blue Cross earned the title of "Healthcare Sector Leader," a recognition for ranking first in its industry, for the third year in a row.

BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF MASSACHUSETTS RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE 50 MOST COMMUNITY-MINDED COMPANIES IN THE UNITED STATES

Why it matters: Blue Cross' commitment to the community is demonstrated by its investment of $11.8 million in financial, volunteer, and in-kind support to not-for-profits in 2025.

Eighty-three percent of Blue Cross employees participated in company volunteer programs, which is four times the national average. Employees contributed more than 20,600 hours of service to support the health of Massachusetts communities.
The big picture: Now in its 14th year, The Civic 50® is the nation's leading corporate social impact recognition program, celebrating excellence in employee volunteering, community investment and social impact strategy.

The Civic 50® survey, which recognizes public and private companies with annual revenues of at least $1 billion, allows teams to track purposeful volunteering, giving and community engagement insights. Civic 50® remains the only survey and ranking system focused exclusively on measuring corporate community engagement.
What they're saying:

Jeff Bellows, VP of corporate citizenship and public affairs at Blue Cross: "In collaboration with our not-for-profit partners, we are driving lasting change to build healthier, more inclusive communities across Massachusetts. We are deeply proud that this shared commitment to corporate citizenship has led Points of Light to recognize us as the healthcare sector leader for the third time."
Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO at Points of Light: "Today's leading companies understand that community engagement is more than a program, it's a reflection of their commitment to advancing social impact in ways that strengthen both their company and the communities they serve. Blue Cross demonstrates how to embed purpose into the employee experience, build authentic relationships with communities and use business as a force for good. We're proud to honor them with the 2026 Civic 50 award."
About Blue Cross Blue Shield of?Massachusetts
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (bluecrossma.org) is a community-focused, tax-paying, not-for-profit health plan headquartered in Boston. We are committed to showing up for everyone like they're the only one and guiding our members to the exceptional healthcare they deserve – affordably, equitably and seamlessly. In keeping with our commitment, we are rated among the nation's best health plans for member satisfaction and quality. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About Points of Light
Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips and mobilizes millions of people to create positive change through volunteering and civic engagement. Through work with nonprofits, companies and social impact leaders, the organization galvanizes volunteers to meet critical needs in communities. As the world's largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service, Points of Light engages more than 3.8 million volunteers across 32 countries. For more information, visit www.pointsoflight.org.

BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF MASSACHUSETTS RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE 50 MOST COMMUNITY-MINDED COMPANIES IN THE UNITED STATES

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Eastern Bank Foundation 2026 Community Advocacy Award Honorees

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Eastern Bank Foundation Recognizes Community Leaders Working To Expand Civic Knowledge and Strengthen Democracy With 2026 Community Advocacy Awards

BOSTON, MA, June 25, 2026 – Eastern Bank Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Eastern Bank, today announced the 2026 Community Advocacy Award recipients, recognizing 11 organizations across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island advancing civic education and giving people a stronger voice in the decisions that shape their communities. From fostering public storytelling and volunteering to neighborhood engagement, this year’s honorees are doing the on-the-ground work of keeping democracy responsive, inclusive, and accountable.

“These leaders and their organizations are protecting fundamental rights and opening opportunities for everyone to participate in civic engagement and education, often with little more than their own deep motivation and commitment inspiring them,” said Turhan Dorsey, President and CEO of the Eastern Bank Foundation. “At a moment when civic knowledge can feel uncertain, their work reflects what democracy looks like in practice and we are proud to raise awareness about their efforts.”

This year’s honorees include:

ACLU of Rhode Island, and Executive Director Steven Brown
Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation, and Director Danielle Allen
Bridgewater Communities for Civil Rights, and Chair Jenise Campbell-Means
The Disagreement, and Co-Founders Catherine Cushenberry and Alex Grodd
Indivisible Outer Cape, and Leader Pam Poindexter
Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action (JALSA), and President & CEO Cindy Rowe
Massachusetts Voter Table, and Executive Director Shanique Rodriguez
Merrimack Valley Project, and Executive Director Julio Mejia
Neighbor 2 Neighbor, and Executive Director Dalida Rocha
New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights, and Director Lisa Kovack
Queer History Boston, and Executive Director Joan Ilacqua

Each year, Eastern Bank Foundation recognizes organizations and nonprofit leaders addressing some of the most pressing issues affecting the communities Eastern Bank serves. Community Advocacy Award honorees are convened for a discussion and an award presentation, and each organization receives a grant in support of their continued work. For more information and to learn about the 2026 honorees, visit Celebrations For Good.

Pictured are the 2026 Community Advocacy Award recipients with Eastern Bank and Eastern Bank Foundation leadership. (Photo provided by Nathan Fontes-Fried Photography)

About Eastern Bank Foundation
Eastern Bank Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Eastern Bank, supports grassroots community solutions and collaborates with community-led organizations working to build economic inclusion, mobility, and social justice in four focus areas: advancing equity in the small business ecosystem, enriching early childhood development, securing safe and affordable housing, and promoting workforce development. Because the roots of social and economic injustice run deep, we employ a variety of levers – including Philanthropy, Employee Volunteerism, and Collaboration – to strengthen the communities we serve. Learn more here.

Eastern Bank Foundation Recognizes Community Leaders Working To Expand Civic Knowledge and Strengthen Democracy With 2026 Community Advocacy Awards

This year’s honorees include:

ACLU of Rhode Island, and Executive Director Steven Brown
Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation, and Director Danielle Allen
Bridgewater Communities for Civil Rights, and Chair Jenise Campbell-Means
The Disagreement, and Co-Founders Catherine Cushenberry and Alex Grodd
Indivisible Outer Cape, and Leader Pam Poindexter
Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action (JALSA), and President & CEO Cindy Rowe
Massachusetts Voter Table, and Executive Director Shanique Rodriguez
Merrimack Valley Project, and Executive Director Julio Mejia
Neighbor 2 Neighbor, and Executive Director Dalida Rocha
New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights, and Director Lisa Kovack
Queer History Boston, and Executive Director Joan Ilacqua

PRESS RELEASE: Family-Owned Soul Food Restaurant Opens in Weymouth Landing

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Nana's Eats & Treats Brings Family Tradition, Soul Food, and Community to Weymouth Landing
WEYMOUTH, MA — Nana's Eats & Treats, a family-owned restaurant located at 33 Washington Street in Weymouth Landing, is serving up more than great food—it is serving generations of family tradition, love, and community.
Recently celebrating its grand opening alongside community members and Weymouth Mayor Mike Molisse, Nana's Eats & Treats has quickly become a destination for those seeking authentic soul food, comfort food, and a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home.
While Nana is not the owner, she remains the heart and soul of the restaurant, often stepping into the kitchen and dining room to cook, serve, and connect with guests. Her recipes, traditions, and love are infused into every meal that leaves the kitchen.
"Nana has always expressed her love through food," said the owners. "Whether it was family gatherings, celebrations, or simply making sure everyone had a hot meal, she has spent a lifetime bringing people together around the table. Nana's Eats & Treats is our way of honoring that legacy and sharing it with the community."
The menu features customer favorites including Chicken & Waffles, Fish & Grits, the signature Jerk Chicken Sandwich, and Nana's famous Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. Every dish reflects the homemade flavors, comfort, and care that have been passed down through generations.
The restaurant's motto, "Where Friends Become Family," is more than a slogan—it is the philosophy behind every guest experience. From the moment customers walk through the door, they are welcomed like family and invited to enjoy the warmth, hospitality, and sense of community that Nana has always embodied.
Located in the heart of Weymouth Landing, Nana's Eats & Treats is proud to be part of the area's continued growth and revitalization. The owners hope the restaurant becomes a gathering place where neighbors connect, families celebrate, and new friendships are formed over great food.
For more information, visit Nana's Eats & Treats online at nanaseatsandtreats.com or stop by 33 Washington Street in Weymouth Landing.
Media Contact:
Nana's Eats & Treats
33 Washington Street
Weymouth, MA 02188
Phone: (781) 660-5662
Website: https://nanaseatsandtreats.com

About Nana's Eats & Treats
Nana's Eats & Treats is a family-owned soul food and comfort food restaurant located in Weymouth Landing. Inspired by the recipes and traditions of its beloved family matriarch, Nana, the restaurant serves homemade meals, signature desserts, and genuine hospitality in an environment where friends become family.

June Bloom Press Release

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Community Support at June Bloom Gala Helps Manet Community Health Expand Quality, Comprehensive Care for Patients and Families

Braintree, MA (June 12, 2026) – Manet Community Health (Manet) welcomed more than 200 guests to its June Bloom Gala at Leo’s Events & Restaurant in Braintree, MA on June 4, 2026, bringing together community members and supporters for an evening to celebrate and support Manet’s mission to expand access to quality, comprehensive health care for patients and families across its locations in Quincy, Hull, Taunton, and Attleboro.

“Philanthropy is essential to the Manet Mission and enhances our ability to offer undeterred access to care and services and enables our ability to broaden our capacity to serve more patients in needed as indicated by over ten years of consecutive growth,” said Cynthia Sierra, Manet Community Health CEO.

The evening featured raffles, a wine pull showcasing Southern Italian wines and extra virgin olive oil, and a standout silent auction with packages including a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Amalfi Coast, VIP Boston sports experiences, dinner for eight at Masons Steakhouse in Quincy, and many other unique experiences and items donated by generous supporters.

Additional highlights of the evening included a speaking program featuring Anita Christie, Board President and Cynthia Sierra, CEO, as well as videos sharing the stories and experiences of Manet patients and the impact of accessible, community-based care.

The event was made possible through the generosity of sponsors, donors, volunteers, and members of the event planning committee: Jenn Bartkow, Griffin Maintenance Services Inc; Phyllis Dohanian; Tracey Dooley, Tracey Events; Helen Fatseas; Kathy Ferraro, FoxRock Properties; Alicia Gardner; Tasha Pereira, UnitedHealthcare; Kim Saliba; Karen Ward, Chair; Nancy Wyrebek.

While the event has ended, June continues to Bloom. Manet’s work is not finished. Gala fundraising efforts continue through June 30 to raise critical funds to meet the growing needs of our patients in Quincy, Hull, Taunton, Attleboro, and surrounding communities. Donations can be made here: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/junebloom2026/

Event photos, sponsors and additional information about Manet Community Health are available at https://www.manetchc.org/june-continues-to-bloom-in-support-of-expanding-manets-quality-comprehensive-care-for-patients-and-families/.

About Manet Community Health Center

Founded in 1979, Manet Community Health Center, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) dedicated to providing preventive, primary, same-day, mental health, and substance use (behavioral health care) for all. With four practice locations in Quincy, one in Hull, two in Taunton, and one in Attleboro, Manet serves patients from across the South Shore and Southeastern Mass. Manet is accredited by The Joint Commission, recognized as a Level 3 Patient Centered Medical Home by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NQCA), and Manet’s Diabetes program is accredited by the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (ADCES). Manet has a primary affiliation with Boston Medical Center Health System. For more information, visit www.manetchc.org or follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ManetCommunityHealthCenter , X @ManetCommunity, Linked In, on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manetchc/ .

Look Foundation Strides for Pans/ Pandas

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

OCES is Hiring!

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT