Our supportive employers have a tremendous impact on the economy of central Missouri. According to Regional Economic Development, Inc. of Columbia (REDI), property and casualty insurance carriers are the third largest provider of jobs in our area. Our companies and fellow insurance colleagues spend hundreds of millions of dollars for goods and services which help our community maintain its strength.
Our companies provide another major impact on the financial stability of central Missouri. Think about our business missions! We help rebuild customers’ lives by paying for homes and business that are destroyed. We help them repair damage to their vehicles. When they are tragically injured, we pay compensation for their medical expenses, lost income, and disabilities. Our companies support healthcare providers, auto repair shops, and the construction trades…just to name a few.
In addition, we directly support charities and service organizations through financial contributions and through the many volunteer hours our fellow employees donate to these worthwhile causes. These non-profit organizations help many needy individuals so they can resume their lives and become self-sustaining citizens who likewise contribute to the community. Many volunteer activities center around events which again support the local economy through purchases of food, meeting venues, etc.
One recent initiative deserves special mention. Many of our local carriers provided financial support to Mizzou’s new Risk Management and Insurance Program which begins in the fall of 2015. In this program, finance students interested in the specialized area of risk management and insurance will graduate with skills in managing risk for corporations, business and individuals. Our Chapter has developed a close working relationship with Fred Travis, the Program Director. Fred is the featured speaker at our December 2014 Chapter meeting and several of his students will accompany him. Graduates of this program will be better able to continue our industry’s leadership role in the community and its positive effect on the local economy.
These are just a few ways our industry makes an economic difference in our local community. If we continue to foster this strong relationship, everyone will benefit.