Merrilee Logue (National Labor Office), Keisha Adams (Blue Cross Blue Shield Association) and Jennifer Bateman (Boys & Girls Clubs of America) joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to provide an update on the partnership between BCBSA companies and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. They highlighted the first discussion of the collaboration on AWF back in May 2024, then discussed the implementation of trauma-informed practices, the impact of trauma-informed specialists and the Apprenticeship Readiness Workshop initiative.
Adams explained that the partnership aims to implement trauma-informed practices in over 5,500 Boys & Girls Clubs nationwide by 2026. With 79 percent of clubs already exposed to this work, nearly 40,000 youth are supported by trained staff. The initiative focuses on three main areas: the Trauma-Informed Network, trauma-informed specialists and an advanced intensive on-the-ground experience for committed clubs. To date, nearly 10,000 training experiences have been provided through this partnership.
Bateman continued by discussing the role of trauma-informed specialists in expanding the program's impact. She explained that club professionals undergo rigorous six-month training to become regional leaders, delivering trauma-informed training virtually and in person to their communities. The partnership will fund 60 new specialists by 2026, with 22 already trained in 2024. Bateman said the specialists create a ripple effect, influencing clubs and broader community systems that support youth, Adams said
Finally, Logue discussed the National Labor Office’s Apprenticeship Readiness Workshop to introduce young people and their families to union apprenticeship opportunities. Still in its pilot phase, this initiative combines workforce development with emotional well-being support. It helps youth understand apprenticeships, qualification requirements and the long-term benefits of union membership, while fostering a sense of belonging and community connection.
Listen to the full episode for more on the partnership between BCBSA and the Boys & Girls Club of America.