Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico is getting ready to open a new door to health and wellness in Albuquerque. On a sunny morning in August, BCBSNM held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Blue Door Neighborhood CenterSM, a community-focused center where people can learn, connect and improve their health — right in Albuquerque’s historic South Valley.
“Blue Door Neighborhood Center reflects our deep commitment to our communities and our members,” said BCBSNM President, Janice Torrez, speaking to a crowd of more than 70 invited guests from the surrounding area. “The South Valley is a robust and growing area, and we want to be in a convenient location for our members and the community.”
The festive celebration included music by Mariachi Amigos de Nuevo Mexico and food from neighboring restaurants, Miches and The Paleta Bar. During the ceremony, local healer Marissa Santos blessed the Center and offered individual blessings to guests.
Located at 3925 Las Estancias Way SW, Blue Door Neighborhood Center is opening to the public on Monday, Aug. 26. Programming will focus on whole-person health, including classes and services that target chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, behavioral health and maternal and infant health. BDNC will collaborate with community organizations and health care providers to offer no-cost resources to everyone in the community.
New Mexico State Representative and Speaker of the House Javier Martinez spoke at the event. “It can be hard to gain access to health care,” Martinez said. “However, places like this can help eliminate barriers by providing health and wellness services to a community that needs it.”
Blue Door Neighborhood Center staff are bilingual and include a health educator, community outreach specialist and two community affairs concierges.
“We welcome everyone at Blue Door Neighborhood Center,” said Anita Hamel, BDNC manager. “We’re excited to begin offering resources, services and programming to meet the needs of our community.”
Starting Aug. 26, Blue Door Neighborhood Center will offer weekday hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Follow the Blue Door Neighborhood Center Facebook page for the latest updates on events and activities. For more information, call the Center directly at 505-816-5100 or email, NeighborhoodCenter@bcbsnm.com.
