Healthy Places that Make a Difference

This post contains excerpts from an article originally published in Placemaking Magazine by PlayCore. Request a copy of Placemaking to read this and the other insightful articles on philanthropy and its role in the placemaking process. 

The BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the state’s largest insurer, and they’re committed to giving back to the families in the communities they serve. As part of that commitment, they are creating public spaces dedicated to promoting health and wellness – BlueCross Healthy Places.

The Foundation knows being active in outdoor spaces reduces stress, and neighborhood parks are gathering spots for people of all ages. Parks encourage social interaction between neighbors, help to forge friendships, and promote healthy behavior. The first BlueCross Healthy Place project is the revitalization of David Carnes Park, a nine-acre green space in the Whitehaven neighborhood of Memphis. 

GameTime, a PlayCore company, was selected to manage the redevelopment of David Carnes Park. They engaged landscape architects, subcontractors and their own team of certified installers to manage all aspects of the project–from community meetings to final installation.

As part of the mission of BlueCross, employees in the Memphis area joined with the GameTime crew to assist with the construction of the playground equipment and site amenities like benches, tables and directional signs. It was an exciting way to live out the mission and values of the Foundation.

Congratulations to the BlueCross Health Foundation for their dedication, caring, and vision to help transform a neighborhood and promote health and wellness at the new BlueCross Healthy Place at David Carnes Park.