CareFirst and the Washington Commanders Join Forces to Support Students, Families and Educators Across the Region
New collaboration launches with the CareFirst Back to School Fair and a season-long Educator of the Game recognition program
WASHINGTON AND BALTIMORE — CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst), one of the country's largest not-for-profit healthcare organizations, and the Washington Commanders today announced a community-driven partnership focused on improving youth well-being and expanding support for families and educators across Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia.
The collaboration aligns CareFirst’s commitment to whole health with the Commanders’ regional platform to address factors that influence youth well-being. Through the CareFirst Back to School Fair and Educator of the Game, the partners will connect families with wellness and school readiness resources while recognizing educators who help create supportive learning environments.
“At CareFirst, we know healthier communities begin with trusted relationships, practical resources and investments that help families thrive,” said Mack McGee, Chief Marketing Officer for CareFirst. “By working with the Washington Commanders, we can help more students start the school year prepared, connect families to local wellness resources and celebrate the educators who make a lasting difference in young people’s lives.”
The partnership will launch with the CareFirst Back to School Fair on Aug. 17 at the Commanders’ home venue, Northwest Stadium. Students and families will have access to school supplies, wellness resources and in-person support from local organizations and participating partners. Featured activities will include face painting, balloon animals, a photo booth and more.
The event is free to attend and open to the public. Registration is encouraged here: 2026 Back To School Fair Registration - Intellistack.
The start of the 2026 football season will also introduce Educator of the Game, a recognition program honoring local educators whose leadership and commitment make a meaningful difference for students and families in their daily lives. The program will spotlight educators throughout the football season and underscore the important connection between education, well-being and opportunity for young people. Educator nominations and additional program information are available at: www.commanders.com/carefirst.
“The Washington Commanders are proud to partner with CareFirst to support the students, families and educators shaping the future of our region,” said Jim Rushton, Chief Partnerships Officer, Washington Commanders. “From the Back to School Fair to the Educator of the Game program, this collaboration reflects our shared commitment to expanding opportunities, celebrating local champions and strengthening the communities we serve.”
CareFirst and the Commanders will continue exploring opportunities to promote youth and family well-being across the region, grounded in a shared belief that communities are stronger when students are prepared, educators are valued and families can access trusted support.
To learn more about the partnership and CareFirst’s support for communities across the region, visit CareFirst.com/Transformation.