Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day Brings Super Bowl Fun and Wellness to Oakland's Students

A Day of Fun and Empowerment at Burckhalter Elementary School

On February 3, 2026, Burckhalter Elementary School in Oakland, California, transformed into a vibrant hub of joy, wellness, and inspiration, all thanks to the latest Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day, an initiative proudly presented by Cigna Healthcare. This ninth annual celebration, themed Dreams Grow Here, welcomed over 200 students from pre-kindergarten to fifth grade for a day packed with sports, healthy activities, and crucial wellness resources.

The day kicked off with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting that honored significant investments in Burckhalter’s future. Students participated in various engaging activities, including NFL FLAG games, which not only allowed them to play but also instilled a sense of teamwork and community. The event unveiled several permanent improvements to the campus, such as a new soccer turf field, an adaptive agility mat, a fully stocked on-site food pantry, and a stunning community mural, all aimed at fostering a supportive environment for learning and play.

Tommi A. Vincent, co-founder of Love Thy Neighbor CDC and a significant driving force behind the initiative, shared her thoughts on the day. "For nine years, Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day has been more than just an event; it’s a beacon of possibility for students and educators. By investing in every aspect of a child’s life—physically, emotionally, academically, and creatively—we’re fostering an environment that inspires kids to dream big."

Adding his views, NFL Executive Troy Vincent, Sr. emphasized the importance of community involvement. "When children feel supported and inspired, their confidence flourishes, leading to a powerful expansion of their potential. Our collaboration with NFL Legends and community partners during Super Bowl week highlights our mission of creating meaningful impacts for local students and schools."

Cigna Healthcare partnered with a diverse group of corporate and philanthropic collaborators, enhancing the day’s activities with comprehensive wellness initiatives. These included interactive game stations for the children, free health screenings, and complimentary eye exams, showcasing a commitment to overall student well-being. The community also had access to Cigna Healthcare's Wellness In Motion mobile clinic for broader health checks.

A new addition to the day, the Playing for Keeps Association, made a significant contribution by installing Burckhalter’s first full-sized turf soccer field, promoting inclusivity and physical development among students. Dr. Mimi Nartey, President of the association, stated, "Every child deserves a safe space to play and grow. This new soccer field not only provides a venue for sports but also ensures that students with special needs have the resources they need to thrive physically."

Long-standing partners like Zebra Technologies reinforced the commitment to student education and creativity by sponsoring a mural created by a local artist, which now proudly adorns the school, leaving a legacy of inspiration and pride. Bill Burns, CEO of Zebra Technologies, articulated, "Our support goes beyond the day itself as we aim to nurture creativity and learning in students and educators alike."

Chick-fil-A contributed to addressing food security by providing meals for students and a fully stocked on-site pantry, ensuring that families have access to necessary resources long after the event. Their Vice President Brent Fielder highlighted the importance of community care, stating, "We seek to fulfill immediate needs while also laying the foundation for lasting resources that strengthen our community."

Moreover, organizations like Infinite Athlete and Google participated by providing various resources and engaging in hands-on STEM learning activities, emphasizing the need for early exposure to technology and sports. Infinite Athlete has been a pivotal supporter since the inception of the Safe Zone initiative, continuously adapting their contributions to meet the evolving needs of education in Oaklands' communities.

The spirited day also included a Faculty and Staff Empowerment Session, ensuring that educators received the support and resources necessary for their own personal growth and resilience. Chase sponsored this empowering experience, recognizing the essential role educators play in shaping the future of communities.

As the day concluded, the positive energy and transformative impact of the Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day lingered in the hearts of everyone involved. Principal Carin Geathers expressed gratitude for the profound changes brought to Burckhalter Elementary School by the Vincent family and their collaborators, reiterating the importance of community investment in education. "What we experienced today is a testament to the incredible possibilities that arise when we unite to invest in the dreams of our children."

With plans to continue supporting Burckhalter Elementary through various initiatives and fundraising efforts later in the week, the Vincent family's legacy of service and community support remains a shining example of what can be achieved when love and commitment are at the forefront of educational initiatives.

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