Agency of the Year Award
In June 2019, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Minnesota was named Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s Agency of the Year for the second year in a row. The award is based on growth in children served, quality of service and fiscal management. This award would not have been possible without the outstanding and ongoing support of Federated Insurance. Their financial support allows Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Minnesota to recruit more volunteers and match them with children waiting for a Big. In 2018, our agency increased the number of children served by 19%, while the national average of growth was -4%. The lack of growth at other affiliates is related directly to funding. Donors like Federated Insurance, one of our Agency Partners, provides sustainable support and a crucial partnership in defending the potential of the children in our community.
Aside from their dedication to our agency through this partnership, Federated Insurance has hosted the Federated Challenge annually since 2004. The Federated Challenge is a fundraising event that spans 2 days and includes 59 partners from around United States and beyond. Financial support from the Federated Challenge supports Big Brothers Big Sisters across Minnesota and nationally. The funds from the Federated Challenge also provide scholarships. The Federated Challenge Scholarship Program provides up to $5,000 in financial support to qualified Littles or high school Bigs who are enrolled in a non-four-year program, focusing on an apprenticeship, certificate, trade school, technical, or community college. More than 100 students are currently on their way to earning job-ready training degrees with little to no debt.
In addition to the financial support, Federated Insurance is a rich resource for volunteers. Federated Insurance provides awareness and opportunities for their employees to become Bigs. They host “Big for a Days” and “Lunch and Learns” for employees to learn more about becoming a Big. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Minnesota is very fortunate to have 55 active Federated Insurance employees as Bigs!
Big Brothers Big Sisters plus Federated Insurance equals a winning team. Together we are defenders of potential!
If you or your company/organization would like more information about becoming an Agency Partner or would like to discuss other ways your company can become involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Minnesota, contact Sharon Wilson Sharon.wilson@bbbsofsouthernmn.org or call 507-409-1300.