Magic Johnson and The Cigna Group Host Bright Futures Carnival for Kids Affected by SoCal Wildfires
In response to the devastation caused by the Southern California wildfires, The Cigna Group and basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson teamed up to bring a day of joy and support to children and families in need. Together, they hosted the Bright Futures Carnival at the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena’s Slavik Clubhouse—an uplifting event designed to help kids impacted by the disaster enjoy a moment of relief and celebration.
The local community in Pasadena and surrounding areas suffered heavy losses from the wildfires. Among those hit hardest were 75 families from the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena, who lost their homes. Five local schools, including Odyssey Charter School—home to one of the Club’s afterschool programs—were also destroyed.
Recognizing the urgent need for community support, The Cigna Group and Mr. Johnson organized the carnival as a way to bring hope and healing. The event featured a variety of fun-filled activities, delicious food, and meaningful gifts to help families feel supported during this difficult time.
“In the aftermath of the fires, many local children remain without access to vital resources and are facing increased mental health challenges such as anxiety, fear, and grief,” said David M. Cordani, Chairman and CEO of The Cigna Group. “The Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena is a pillar of support in this community, and we are honored that our long-term partner, Mr. Johnson, brought much-needed joy and inspiration to the kids and staff.”
The event saw Magic Johnson spending quality time with families, offering words of encouragement, handing out much-needed supplies, and sharing his trademark positivity.
“I’m so happy we were able to provide a day of fun to children from Altadena, Pasadena, and surrounding communities,” Mr. Johnson shared. “These families have had their lives turned upside down, and it’s so important that we come together to show them they’re not alone. I was blessed to spend time with so many special families and bring them some encouragement and support. Thank you to the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena for being there when the community needs it most.”
Volunteers from The Cigna Group, along with Mr. Cordani and Mr. Johnson, helped run the day’s festivities. Highlights from the carnival included:
- Food Truck Lunch: Kids enjoyed tasty meals from local food trucks.
- Outdoor Fun: Games and activities created a playful, energetic environment.
- Carnival Stations: Children rotated through pop-a-shot, classic carnival games, and snack booths.
- Gifts for Families: Every family received Ralph’s gift cards, LA Lakers and Dodgers gear, and mental health care packs provided by The Cigna Group.
“We are grateful for the support from The Cigna Group and Mr. Johnson,” said Lisa Cavelier, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena. “They are showing up for us when our community needs them the most.”
This event is part of The Cigna Group’s ongoing commitment to communities affected by the wildfires. In January, The Cigna Group Foundation donated $150,000 toward local wildfire relief efforts. This week, they added another $25,000 contribution specifically for the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena. Since 2024, The Cigna Group Foundation has invested $250,000 in Boys & Girls Clubs of America to support youth mental health programming.
About The Cigna Group
The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI) is a global health company committed to creating a better future built on the vitality of every individual and every community. We relentlessly challenge ourselves to partner and innovate solutions for better health. The Cigna Group includes products and services marketed under Cigna Healthcare, Evernorth Health Services or its subsidiaries. The Cigna Group maintains sales capabilities in more than 30 countries and jurisdictions and has more than 186 million customer relationships around the world. Learn more at thecignagroup.com.
About The Cigna Group Foundation
The Cigna Group Foundation is a private foundation funded by contributions from The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI) and its subsidiaries. The Cigna Group Foundation aims to support, collaborate, and convene with nonprofit organizations addressing society’s greatest health challenges. In addition to increasing access to programs and care in geographies demonstrating significant need, the Foundation responds with humanitarian aid relief during critical times and strengthens colleagues’ support of causes through matching donations and volunteer rewards.
