Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield has received the 2010 Merit Employer of the Year Award from the Des Moines National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

The award is designed to recognize employers that promote the best practices of diversity in the workplace and community. Several of Wellmark’s programs contributed to its receiving the award, including its Diversity and Inclusion curriculum, Diversity Awareness Month and an Inclusion Council that was established in 2006.

“Every individual has the opportunity to contribute and develop in ways consistent with their vision, mission and values,” said NAACP Iowa Director of Human Rights Preston Daniels.