Government Employees Health Association, Inc. this week received the 2019 Corporate Citizen of the Year award from the Truman Heartland Community Foundation. THCF is a non-profit dedicated to promoting philanthropy in Eastern Jackson County. According to THCF, GEHA raised more than a million dollars for local charities with its annual golf tournament. The health insurance provider, which serves government workers, also sponsored four emergency food distribution locations during the government shutdown early this year.

The accolades come on the heels of a major announcement by the Lee’s Summit Company. In July, GEHA announced a new partnership with the Chiefs and league MVP Patrick Mahomes. As part of the partnership, GEHA will be the exclusive health plan, dental plan and vision plan partner of the Chiefs. GEHA provides coverage to more than two million government workers and retired military members. President and CEO Darren Taylor said the partnership with the Chiefs will allow the company to expand membership and offerings.

“This partnership will build name recognition for GEHA and fuel our national and local growth efforts. Growth will allow us to offer enhanced benefits in our plans and make investments in the development of modern health and dental benefit plans that are sustainable into the future,” Taylor said.

GEHA is working with the Chiefs to create a new digital wellness program, military appreciations initiatives and updated Chiefs Sports Lab at Arrowhead. Taylor said while many of the new features are still in the works, all of them will focus on encouraging community health and wellbeing.

“One of the things we’re most excited about is how closely aligned we are with the Chiefs around mission and core values. This includes commitment to community, honoring tradition and inspiring outcomes,” said Taylor. “Joining forces with the Chiefs provides an incredible opportunity for us to make a positive difference – with our members, employees, community and beyond.”