#United States #New York #Guardian Life #New York Mets #Everyday Champions

The Expansion of the Everyday Champions Program

In an inspiring move to uplift communities, the Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian) has announced the expansion of its Everyday Champions initiative in collaboration with the New York Mets. This program, which honors individuals who go above and beyond to improve the lives of their teammates and communities, is gaining traction as it aims to recognize even more local heroes this season. —The Everyday Champions award is no small feat; it acknowledges those who work selflessly within their communities, reflecting the core values of both the Mets and Guardian.

Meet Sean Manaea: The Program's Ambassador

As part of the expanded initiative, Mets pitcher Sean Manaea has been appointed as the official ambassador for the Everyday Champions program. Manaea, who is passionate about community service, expressed pride in the Mets' dedication to making a positive impact. "As a Met, I'm proud of the focus this organization puts on making a positive impact in the community," he stated. His enthusiasm for honoring local champions is infectious and embodies the spirit of the program as he prepares to recognize the honorees during upcoming home games.

Honoring Exceptional Individuals

The program's expansion introduces an award system where four Everyday Champions will be recognized throughout the 2025 season. The honorees, celebrated for their remarkable contributions, will be honored at Mets home games:

• - August 5: Francis Mendoza, spouse of Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, will be honored during the game against the Cleveland Guardians.
• - August 14: Sean Manaea will be highlighted during the game against the Atlanta Braves.
• - August 25: Antoan Richardson, Mets first base coach, will be acknowledged during the game against the Philadelphia Phillies.

These celebrations provide an excellent platform for the Mets to honor local heroes and reinforce the sense of community that both Guardian and the team strive to cultivate.

A Multi-Year Partnership

This initiative comes on the heels of Guardian and the Mets extending their partnership through a new multi-year agreement. Their collaboration began in 2024 with an aim to foster brand engagement while in the park, online, and more importantly, within the community. “Guardian is committed to making a difference in people's lives by being there in the moments that matter,” said Wendy Wahl, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Guardian. Their joint mission is focused on enhancing well-being across the communities served, aligning seamlessly with the ideals held by the Mets.

The Significance of Community Engagement

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Guardian and expand upon the Everyday Champions program,” said Brenden Mallette, Mets Senior Vice President of Partnerships. This sentiment underscores the Mets' long-held value of community service, where they emphasize the importance of recognizing unsung heroes who support their communities.

Guardian: A Commitment to Well-Being

Guardian has a storied history of commitment to community initiatives and helping individuals thrive during difficult times. With 165 years of stability and a reputation for fiscal integrity, they aim to inspire well-being amongst generations of families across numerous communities. From facilitating planning for a brighter future to providing crucial support during unexpected challenges, Guardian's ethos revolves around uplifting those they serve. Their continued partnership with the Mets amplifies this mission, focusing on teamwork and community engagement at both local and organizational levels.

Conclusion

The expansion of the Everyday Champions program is a testament to the power of community spirit and the importance of lifting up those who consistently make impactful contributions. As the program continues to recognize and celebrate these champions, it sets a benchmark for how corporate partnerships can enhance community relations and elevate the profiles of selfless individuals making a difference in their neighborhoods. The 2025 season promises to be a remarkable celebration of heroes, community engagement, and the values shared between Guardian and the New York Mets.