Aetna officials last week visited Special People In Northeast’s early childhood center in Parkwood to present an oversized $20,000 check.
SPIN earned the money in Aetna’s Voices of Health voting competition, held in the fall.
The nonprofit agency won the Philadelphia market competition, topping nine competitors with 14,378 votes, and was among 14 winners across six markets that promote health.
Preschool children, ages 3 to 5, from the early care and education programs, 12640 Dunks Ferry Road, expressed their gratification by displaying health-focused artwork and singing songs such as Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes.
SPIN CEO Kathy McHale and executive director Judy Dotzman accepted the funds from Aetna director of account management Bill Farmer, senior account manager Betsy Lassen, regional community marketing director Tanya Hall and community development coordinator Nicole McKinsey.
“We are so thankful to Aetna for being such a tremendous partner of not only SPIN, but also all of the nonprofits in our community,” McHale said. “It is partners like Aetna that make our mission of ‘a life of possibilities’ a reality. We’re also so grateful to our entire SPIN family that voted for us to make this donation possible.”
Shayne Farmer, Bill’s son, delivered remarks. Shayne, who has autism, is an honor roll student who is in the band and plays basketball.
Miss Patty Cronin and Miss Michelle Dougherty taught the children the songs that delighted the visitors from Aetna.
SPIN will use the money for preschool programs and autism services. ••
