Loneliness and isolation are growing problems with severe health impacts, and in Arizona, one insurance company aims to reverse that trend by strengthening social connections for people across the state.
BetterLife has introduced BetterLife Connect,, a social membership program that will establish new member groups in Arizona. These community groups will be managed by local member group leaders who organize projects that fill needs in their specific areas. The most significant benefit is the groups themself, which bring people together for a common cause and provide new opportunities for connection to fight against the rising problem of loneliness.
“Society today is trending away from personal relationships, having a real effect on not only mental health but physical health as well,” says BetterLife CEO Chris Campbell. “It’s time to reverse that trend, and BetterLife means to be part of the solution.”
The health threat of isolation is real. A 2023 U.S. Surgeon General report identifies social disconnection report identifies social disconnection as an epidemic, with a mortality impact comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes per day. That is similar to impacts seen from things like obesity and physical inactivity.
BetterLife is a 125-year-old, not-for-profit, member-owned fraternal life insurance company based in Wisconsin, where local groups are already in place and making a difference. The Connect program opens these groups to everyone, regardless of whether they take advantage of BetterLife’s life insurance and annuity options or not.
While still in the initial phase with approximately 400 Arizona-based members, the company plans to establish local member groups soon.
“Though our current presence in Arizona is small, we’re excited to help members experience connection, belonging, and financial security,” says Angel Thomas, BetterLife senior VP of member experience.
BetterLife Connect members get access to community events, interactive online events, the Optimity™ Wellness App and more. Membership is free for policyholders. For non-policyholders, BetterLife is offering a limited-time offer of one year membership at no cost, with renewal for $35/year. Building communities and supporting its members is at the core of BetterLife’s not-for-profit model.
“I find the piece that sticks with people the most is that we take any profit and turn it around and give it back where it’s needed,” Thomas says. “This investment makes us special and will allow us to impact Arizona’s communities positively.”
BetterLife offers a competitive portfolio of insurance products, providing Term, Universal, and Whole life solutions, including Final Expense options as well as Annuities. The company is authorized to conduct business in 18 states and is currently conducting business as BetterLife Insurance Company in Oregon.
Photo courtesy of BetterLife
Matt Mikulcik, chief operating officer at BetterLife
