In early August, Olivet Boys & Girls Club officially launched a new, innovative program with Highmark Wholecare, formerly Gateway Health. Highmark Wholecare, a leading managed care organization, is one of the largest Medicaid providers in the Reading area.
This program includes Highmark Wholecare subsidizing the cost of Olivet club membership for Highmark Wholecare members ages 6 to 18. In Reading, more than 3,000 youth between the ages of 6 to 18 are covered through Highmark Wholecare. In Berks County, there are more than 5,000 youth in this age range who are members of Highmark Wholecare.
This strategic collaboration provides a significant benefit to Olivet families who are Highmark Wholecare members, as they can access Olivet programs and services at no cost and as part of their health insurance benefit. Furthermore, this program serves as a unique opportunity for Olivet to connect with Highmark Wholecare youth who are not yet Olivet club members.
After a successful summer camp season that ended on Aug. 19, Olivet Boys & Girls Club reopened its doors for afterschool programming on Tuesday, Sept. 6. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 2:30 pm to 8:00 pm with programming available for youth ages 6 to 18.
Key program areas focus on healthy lifestyles, academic success, and good character/citizenship with activities including arts and music, sports, recreation, STEM, reading enrichment, and daily homework help.
Multiple Olivet Boys & Girls Clubs are located within the city of Reading, as well as one location in West Reading, which is a joint operation with the Wyomissing Area School District at the West Reading Elementary Center.
“We are thrilled to embark on this new collaboration with Highmark Wholecare. Providing youth in Reading and across Berks with a safe, engaging place to visit afterschool is of utmost importance. This collaboration comes at a critical time when youth need us more than ever, from supporting mental health to academic success. Thanks to the innovative team at Highmark Wholecare, we will be able to serve more youth at no cost to their families,” said Chris Winters, President and CEO, Olivet Boys & Girls Club.
“At Highmark Wholecare, we care for the whole person and bring services to individuals in the communities where they live,” said Beth Dimpfl, Manager, Strategy and Execution, Highmark Wholecare. “We are proud to offer Highmark Wholecare youth additional educational, social, and recreational opportunities through the extensive resources of the Olivet Boys & Girls Club, available through this exciting and innovative partnership.”
Families who are covered through Highmark Wholecare and are interested in having their children become Olivet members can contact the Olivet Boys & Girls Club administrative office at (610)-373-1314.
