Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota names Northland Foundation as a Trailblazer

Event part of a statewide effort to connect with partners making a difference in health and wellbeing

The Northland Foundation was honored with a Trailblazer Award from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota on February 5th in Duluth.

Blue Cross's Trailblazer Tour highlights innovative efforts around the state to build healthier communities. The Northland Foundation was recognized for its work to increase access to high-quality early care and education. Duluth's Lethal Lure coalition also received a Trailblazer Award during the lunchtime ceremony. The afternoon program included a moderated discussion among two dozen area stakeholders focused on health and wellbeing in northeastern Minnesota.

“Grant resources from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota have helped us accomplish important work for children and families in our rural region. We are so appreciative of this recognition and their continued partnership,” said Tony Sertich, President of the Northland Foundation, who accepted the award. Lynn Haglin, Vice President/KIDS PLUS Director, and Mary Harrelson, Board Trustee, also attended.

Blue Cross produced a video highlighting the Northland Foundation's ongoing efforts in the region on behalf of young children and their families, especially in relation to early care and education. Included in the video are interviews with three area child care providers. Watch the video.

“Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation's Healthy Start focus is about improving access to quality early education,” stated Sertich. “They share our commitment to supporting children in those developmentally critical first five years.”