
Judeson Saintil, Healthfirst Community Engagement Manager, presented Healthfirst’s Community Award to John Thompson, Family Engagement Night Coordinator for the Yonkers Police Athletic League, in recognition of his longstanding commitment to advancing health and wellness across Yonkers.
The Westchester Soccer Club (WSC) faced off against the New York Cosmos on Friday, May 15th – all while promoting the importance of community health and physical fitness. The second annual WSC Healthcare Night was co-sponsored by Healthfirst, a leading not-for-profit health insurer serving 2 million members in New York City, on Long Island, and in Westchester, Rockland, Sullivan, and Orange counties, and Northwell Health.
Why it matters: Events like WSC Healthcare Night help promote active living and healthier lifestyles at every stage of life.
The event on Friday, May 15th at Mount Vernon Memorial Field featured:
- Medicare Savings Program (MSP) eligibility screenings led by Healthfirst
- Healthfirst “Kids Zone” with a soccer dart game and obstacle course
- Halftime activities including health trivia and giveaways
- Healthfirst Community Award presentation honoring a local leader for outstanding impact
As part of the evening, Healthfirst presented a Community Award to John Thompson, Yonkers Police Athletic League (PAL) Family Engagement Night Coordinator, in recognition of his longstanding commitment to advancing health and wellness across Yonkers.
Who attended:
- Healthfirst leaders
- Mitch Baruchowitz, Principal Owner, Westchester Soccer Club
- John Thompson, Yonkers Police Athletic League, Family Engagement Night Coordinator (Recipient of the Healthfirst Community Award)
Quotes:
“At Healthfirst, being part of the community means being present during the moments that bring people together, which is why we are pleased to continue our relationship with Westchester Soccer Club. At Healthcare Night, we’re sharing information on health resources and promoting wellness at all ages, and helping community members access the quality, affordable care they need to stay healthy.”
- Miguel Centeno, Vice President, Community Engagement, Healthfirst
“We are excited by our continuing collaboration with Healthfirst – together, showcasing the importance of healthier, more active lifestyles. Healthfirst’s dedication to the health of communities across Westchester aligns with the Westchester Soccer Club’s vision for building local pride, sportsmanship and well-being. We’re grateful for Healthfirst’s support of the Westchester Soccer Club’s second annual Healthcare Night and throughout the season.”
- Mitch Baruchowitz, Principal Owner, Westchester Soccer Club
“At Northwell Health, we believe meaningful partnerships are essential to advancing health beyond the walls of our hospitals and into the communities we serve. Healthcare Appreciation Night with Westchester Soccer Club and Healthfirst is a powerful opportunity to honor our healthcare professionals and reaffirm our shared commitment to building a healthier, more connected Westchester.”
- Dr. Debbie Salas-Lopez, Executive Vice President, Institute for Community Health and Wellness, Northwell
“The Police Athletic League of Yonkers, Healthfirst and the Westchester Soccer Club, share a dedication to stronger and healthier communities in southern Westchester. As we work to engage more youth in sports programs to build leadership, teamwork, and discipline, we’re thankful for our strong ties to Healthfirst and their recognition of the contributions of the Yonkers Police Athletic League.”
- Marisol Mancebo, Executive Director, Yonkers Police Athletic League