By Laura Thornton
At CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst), giving back has never been an add-on, says Dr. Bryan O. Buckley. “It’s at the core of what we do.”
Dr. Buckley is the head of public health and community impact for CareFirst, a not-for-profit healthcare insurer serving about 3.5 million people in the Mid-Atlantic region. Operating for over 80 years, CareFirst has been a committed supporter of Kennedy Krieger Institute for the past decade.
There’s a strong synergy between the two organizations: Both are fully committed to helping people live better lives through high-quality, accessible healthcare.
“Our slogan is ‘With care,’” Dr. Buckley says. “We want to make sure people get the healthcare they need, at the right time and at the right place.” To that end, CareFirst roots itself in the communities it serves and supports organizations working to improve the health of people living in those communities.
“We support institutions that make a real difference close to home,” Dr. Buckley explains. “We partner with Kennedy Krieger because it supports families and changes lives.”
As an organization, CareFirst has sponsored the Institute’s annual Festival of Trees and ROAR for Kids fundraisers for several years. Last year, it sponsored the Institute’s inaugural Champions of Hope Gala. But it’s CareFirst’s “difference makers,” as its employees are called, who truly animate the partnership.
We partner with Kennedy Krieger because it supports families and changes lives.” – Dr. Bryan O. Buckley
In 2025, nearly 200 difference-makers volunteered for a collective 480-plus hours to support Kennedy Krieger. In the office, they often stay on after meetings to assemble are kits, make fleece blankets and write notes of encouragement for patients and families at the Institute. About 10 times a year, difference makers visit Kennedy Krieger to volunteer on-site, take an Institute tour and learn about some of the Institute’s programs.
The hands-on aspect lets volunteers feel like they’re making a difference at an immediate and personal level. “Our difference makers enjoy these experiences and always look forward to volunteering again,” Dr. Buckley says.
“It gives me great joy to be working for an organization that’s so anchored in supporting the community,” he adds. “At CareFirst, we don’t just talk the talk. We walk the walk.”
Photo caption: CareFirst staff members gather to make fleece blankets for patients at Kennedy Krieger