What’s the benefit? The Pro Football Retired Players Association (PFRPA) is supporting members’ lifelong health by offering a dental plan to 22,000 retired players. The program is being provided through the organization’s Greater Good Fund, which supports health and wellness programs as well as other opportunities for retired players. “We are pleased that we will be able to offer this plan to the retired players, to help provide services that are needed by so many,” Pro Football Hall of Fame member and PFRPA board chairman Jim Brown said in a statement. “This is the first of many positive steps we expect to provide to our membership.”

Why it works for members: Whether in training or in competition, athletes strive to stay in peak physical condition. And the need for good health doesn’t end once they’ve left the field. The new dental coverage is a big addition to the association’s benefits and soon may be just one of many benefits intended to help provide comprehensive healthcare for retired players.

Other perks: The association gives its members several direct financial benefits through licensing and marketing agreements. In addition to the new dental plan, the PFRPA board is also considering providing health insurance, life insurance, and survivor death benefits to all of its members.

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