Sun Life Doubles Down on Youth Health with Renewed ADA Partnership

WELLESLEY, MA & MERRIFIELD, VA – June 29, 2026

Financial services giant Sun Life U.S. is renewing its national collaboration with the American Diabetes Association® (ADA), extending its support for the youth-focused initiative, Project Power. The two-year, $250,000 commitment aims to bolster a program designed to arm young people with the tools for healthier lifestyles, directly combating the rising risks of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

The renewed funding will channel $125,000 annually to expand the program's reach, targeting an additional 5,000 children through a network of over 100 community organizations and more than 250 trained facilitators. This strategic move deepens a partnership that began in 2021 and has already impacted an estimated 60,000 families nationwide, highlighting a sustained corporate strategy focused on preventative health and community wellness.

"Sun Life is committed to supporting programs that advance health access in underserved communities," said David Healy, president of Sun Life U.S. "The ADA's Project Power for youth embodies our purpose of helping people live healthier lives. Supporting diabetes prevention and health education programs for young people helps build the foundation for lifelong wellness."

A Strategic Response to a Growing Crisis

Sun Life's investment arrives at a critical juncture for public health in the United States. The statistics paint a grim picture: according to recent data, nearly one in five American children and adolescents is affected by obesity. The problem is even more acute in minority and low-income communities, where obesity prevalence can be significantly higher.

This trend has a dangerous corollary: a dramatic increase in youth-onset type 2 diabetes. Research shows the incidence of type 2 diabetes among U.S. youth nearly doubled between 2001 and 2017. More alarmingly, the years following the COVID-19 pandemic saw a staggering 62% spike in new diagnoses among those aged 10-19. This health crisis disproportionately impacts Black, Hispanic, and American Indian youth, revealing deep-seated health inequities.

It is within this context that Sun Life's continued backing of Project Power appears less like simple philanthropy and more like a targeted, strategic intervention. For over a decade, the company has made diabetes its global philanthropic focus, committing more than $60 million CAD to programs aimed at prevention and care. This long-term vision positions the company not just as a donor, but as an active participant in building healthier, more resilient communities—a core tenet of its "Brighter Futures" sustainability plan.

Inside Project Power: A Proven Model for Change

Project Power is not merely a lecture series; it is a comprehensive, evidence-based curriculum designed for tangible results. Available at no cost in every U.S. state, the program works with children aged 5-12 through a multi-pronged approach that includes nutrition education, health promotion, increased physical activity, and crucially, family involvement. By engaging the entire family unit, the program aims to create a supportive home environment where healthy habits can take root and flourish.

The program's effectiveness is reflected in its recent impact report. Following the 2025 program, which reached over 10,000 young people, the results were striking:
- 93% of participants could correctly identify water as the healthiest beverage choice.
- 81% reported feeling confident in their ability to choose fruit as a snack over less healthy options.
- 78% demonstrated the ability to exercise at least five times per week.

These metrics illustrate a significant shift in both knowledge and behavior. "Sun Life has been a strong supporter of the American Diabetes Association for years, and we're thrilled that the Project Power program will continue positively impacting families across the country," said Rachel Myers, the ADA's executive director in New England. "The program's strong results show that with support from companies like Sun Life, we can really make a difference and help kids learn how to manage their health."

The program's delivery through local community partners—including schools, churches, and community centers—ensures it meets children where they are. In one instance, the ADA's curriculum was adapted for a faith-based African-American community, replacing lectures with active diet and exercise workshops to increase engagement and cultural relevance. This adaptability is key to its success in diverse populations.

A Broader Commitment to Health Equity

The Project Power partnership is a cornerstone of Sun Life's wider commitment to closing health gaps in underserved communities. The company's strategy extends beyond this single initiative, weaving a consistent thread of health-focused community investment across its operations. This includes the Sun Life and DentaQuest Health Access Heroes program, which recognizes and funds non-profits and individuals working on the front lines of diabetes and oral health care.

Furthermore, the financial services firm leverages its high-profile sports partnerships for social good. Long-standing collaborations with the Boston Celtics and Kansas City Royals have been instrumental in launching and supporting local diabetes and health programs, using the platform of professional sports to promote wellness to a broad audience. This comprehensive approach demonstrates an understanding that tackling a complex issue like diabetes requires a multi-faceted strategy that combines direct intervention, community recognition, and broad-based public awareness.

This corporate philosophy aligns with a growing trend in strategic CSR, where social impact is deeply integrated with a company's core purpose. By investing in preventative health, Sun Life not only enhances its brand reputation but also contributes to the long-term well-being of the communities it serves, fostering a healthier future workforce and client base. It's a clear example of how business growth and societal benefit can be mutually reinforcing goals. The renewed investment in Project Power reinforces this commitment, ensuring that thousands more children will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to build a foundation for a lifetime of good health.