Associate-driven groups at the downtown St. Louis office of Anthem Blue and Cross Blue Shield in Missouri are gaining a deeper understanding of diversity, both in the workplace and in the marketplace.
The company started its Associate Resource Group (ARG) program several years ago to help build an inclusive and collaborative culture, where all associates feel welcomed and respected. There currently are nine ARGs made up of associates who share common interests and/or backgrounds around different aspects of diversity, such as ethnicity, veteran status, gender, sexual orientation and gender identity, generation and disability.
ARGs also promote opportunities for leadership development and growth among all associates, and they support Anthem’s efforts to recruit and develop a diverse talent pipeline. Most notably, the ARGs play an important role in offering their insight and broader perspectives on business solutions, company practices, services and products to maximize the company’s reach in the multicultural marketplace.
“At Anthem, we see diversity management as more than just a strategy, it’s a fundamental part of how we do business,” said Steve Martenet, president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri. “Focusing on diversity helps us to better understand and meet the health care needs of the unique communities we serve – while actually becoming part of their cultural fabric.”
Locally, Anthem’s African American Professional Exchange (APEX) ARG has been involved in both workplace and community activities in the past year.
Fifty-four walkers from the Anthem St. Louis office, along with family and friends, raised nearly $1,600 to combat breast cancer at the fourth annual Sista Strut last October in Forest Park.
Inclement weather last December forced Humanitri to cancel its holiday party for the homeless. APEX donated $400 for the event, and other food donations came from Sam’s Club, the Rib Shack, Walmart as well as from Anthem associates. The group faced a dilemma with the abundance of food on hand that had to be used immediately. Associates were able to serve the hot food to Salvation Army residents and people at three shelters. They also collected donations for the holiday gift drive for Humanitri residents.
APEX also collected donations for a holiday toy drive at a St. Louis-area BKM Fitness location.
“Achieving our company’s desired culture is a continuous journey. A company’s culture is a hallmark and the one capability its competition can’t duplicate,” said Morry Berger, director of human resources at Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri.
“Anthem finds strength in each associate’s individual perspectives. We believe that different approaches and views of the world allow us to be more innovative, more creative, and ultimately, more competitive.”
