A 350-mile bike relay from Bloomfield, Connecticut to Washington, D.C. brought together The Cigna Group and Achilles International in a cross-state initiative to promote physical and mental wellness for youth and veterans. The “Gear Up for Good” relay concluded with 245 bikes distributed to youth in Hartford and D.C., along with 200 mental health packs for students in the nation’s capital.

The event highlighted how community partnerships can drive health outcomes, particularly for children and veterans. During the finish-line celebration in Washington, D.C., Cigna employees assembled mental health kits for local teens served by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, building on the Hartford relay kickoff where bikes were donated to youth in Connecticut.

“Achilles International athletes are proof that anything is possible when you have a community behind you,” said Melissa Skottegaard, board chair, The Cigna Group Foundation. “Unity and support are powerful drivers of health and vitality, and we’re proud to champion an event that brings these values to life for our colleagues — especially as we engage young people in our communities.”

“Community is the cornerstone of resilience. When we come together with one shared goal, we create a network of strength that helps individuals overcome challenges and thrive,” said Emily Glasser, president and CEO, Achilles International. “Our longstanding work with The Cigna Group ensures that every mile makes a difference in the lives of youth, adults and military veterans with disabilities.”