Health Net and the Pro Football Hall of Fame hosted two community-focused events in Sacramento and West Sacramento as part of Super Bowl week activities. The gatherings, “Salute to Service” and “Strong Youth, Strong Communities,” aimed to honor local healthcare workers and inspire area youth.
The “Salute to Service” event took place at WellSpace Health Alhambra Community Health Center. Health Net, a Centene Corporation company, partnered with WellSpace Health to recognize medical professionals who serve vulnerable populations in Sacramento. WellSpace Health provides services such as medical, dental, mental health care, and substance use disorder treatment for Medi-Cal, Medicare beneficiaries, and uninsured patients.
Amber Kemp, Vice President of Medi-Cal Strategy at Health Net, stated: “At Health Net, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting those who dedicate their lives to helping others. Events like ‘Salute to Service’ and ‘Strong Youth, Strong Communities’ allow us to honor healthcare heroes and inspire our youth to lead with compassion and resilience. Together, we can create a healthier, stronger Sacramento for generations to come.”
Christie Gonzales, Chief Operating Officer of WellSpace Health, said: “On behalf of everyone at WellSpace Health, I want to thank Health Net and the Pro Football Hall of Fame for taking the time to visit and recognize the extraordinary work of our staff. Their dedication to serving our community makes a tremendous impact in the region. This recognition shines a light on a team that is deeply committed and incredibly deserving. We are very grateful.”
Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty added: “Sacramento is a city built on compassion, service, and the power of community. Today, we honor our healthcare heroes and celebrate the partnerships that uplift and strengthen our neighborhoods. Together, through moments like these, we are building a stronger, healthier future for every resident of Sacramento.”
Pro Football Hall of Famers Warren Moon, Fred Biletnikoff, Darrell Green joined NCAA Women’s Basketball Final 4 participant Iman McFarland along with local leaders for tours at the clinic. Staff participated in wellness activities provided by Health Net.
Later in the day at River City High School in West Sacramento more than 2,000 students attended the “Strong Youth Strong Communities” assembly organized with Big Brothers Big Sisters. The program featured motivational talks from football legends as well as community leaders including Amber Kemp.
Darrell Green said: “Growing up today can be rough and present trying moments that our youth must face. Through Strong Youth Strong Communities we’re educating youth on the importance of speaking openly about mental health and empowering them to improve their lives and communities.”
River City High School Principal Jacob Geivett commented: “Today’s Strong Youth Strong Communities summit was an incredible opportunity for our students to hear real life stories from individuals who truly understand the highs and lows on the road to success and personal growth. Listening to Hall of Famers and leaders speak honestly about overcoming adversity protecting their mental health and leaning on their support systems helped bring to life the same lessons our teachers counselors and staff are working hard to reinforce every day at River City High School (RCHS). We are deeply grateful for this partnership and for the chance to show our students that setbacks do not define them; how they respond does. Events like this build on the amazing work our dedicated RCHS team is doing to support students,and they remind every Raider that they are not alone they are capable,and their future is full of possibilities.”
Both events reflect ongoing efforts by Health Net—a California-based managed care provider—and its parent company Centene Corporation—alongside partners like WellSpace Health—to support both healthcare workers as well as young people across Sacramento.
WellSpace Health operates over 30 centers annually serving approximately 125,000 people throughout Sacramento and Placer counties.
