State Farm Education Assist® at Arizona State University celebrates five years of preparing students for the workforce of the future.

Read full story here

State Farm Education Assist® at Perimeter College continues to broaden opportunity through access to education for Atlanta students.

Meet two of the 2025 State Farm Scholars graduating from Perimeter College’s LIFT program here:

·         Daniel Smith

·         Yahshevah Wilson

Tyler Bever, recipient of a State Farm Cybersecurity Scholarship at ISU, is realizing his dream as a cyber defense analyst.

Read the full story

State Farm provided Illinois State University with a $3 million grant to support the recruitment and retention of faculty and students in the University’s new interdisciplinary data science bachelor’s degree program.

Read the full story here.

Preparing your vehicle

Winterizing your car is a simple way you can prepare for winter weather:

1.    Check your tire pressure. This should be done regularly in cold temperatures.

2.    Install winter tires. If you live in an area that experiences extreme conditions, these could be better than all-weather tires.

3.    Keep your washer fluid full.

4.    Pack an emergency kit in your car. This should include things like a flashlight, non-perishable food items, jumper cables, blankets, extra antifreeze, batteries, etc.

Preparing your home

The following tips can help get your home ready for the winter weather.

5.    To help protect your home against frozen pipes, ice dams, and other water-related losses:

• Use heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables to wrap pipe.
• Seal cracks and gaps which could bring in cold air with insulation or caulk. Check around dryer venting, electrical wiring, doors, and windows nearest to exposed pipes.
• Disconnect exterior water hoses and drainpipes leading outdoors. If possible, use an indoor water shutoff valve to ensure water service to exterior locations is disconnected.
• Keep your thermostat set above 55 degrees, especially if you will be away from your house for an extended period. Ask someone you trust to monitor your house daily to prevent freezing.

6.    Heating System Checkup

• Change the air filter in your furnace and check its efficiency before the cold weather begins. Stock up on several air filters for the winter. Be sure to change them every month.
• Check your windows for any leaks that may compromise your heating efficiency. If you feel cold air coming in, purchase a plastic sealing kit from the hardware store and place the plastic around the window to keep the heat from escaping.  

7. Check the Fireplace and Chimney

• Call a chimney sweep for an inspection and annual cleaning.

8.    Clean the Gutters

• Gutters and downspouts should be kept clean and should direct water away from the foundation, as well as from walkways and driveways, so that they do not become slippery or icy.

9.    Yard Maintenance

• When sweeping the leaves off your patio, don’t forget to clean, pack up, and store any patio furniture for the winter, as winter winds can be forceful.

10.    In the Garage

• Empty out unused fuel from any gas-powered equipment stored in the garage, such as a lawnmower, because sediment can build up and clog the fuel line.

11.    Test Your Emergency Generator

• It’s a good idea to have an emergency generator if you live in an area that sees a lot of ice storms, as these are a major cause of blackouts during the winter.
• Make sure you never run the generator in any enclosed space – like your garage – as it will present a carbon monoxide hazard.

The additional tips below may help ease some anxiety on the road and at home during all kinds of weather.

Winter Car Tips - State Farm®

DIY Tips for Winterizing Your Home - State Farm®

State Farm® employee Katie Lee volunteered for the company’s Tech Astra event because she loves getting involved with younger minds learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).

Hosted this fall at all four State Farm locations, Tech Astra is an innovative program aimed at giving female students the opportunity to explore the vast possibilities of STEM. The event is led by women and tailored to challenge 5th to 12th graders.

Katie, who has a degree in neuroscience, said, “I see myself in these girls. I was shy as a kid, so I was trying to get the quieter girls involved and heard.”

At the event in Bloomington, Ill., Katie saw the girls collaborating while conducting STEM-related experiments. She said, “The girls were really excited about the Zombie and the Catapult events. It was cool to see them work together and experiment.”

Survive the Zombie Apocalypse lab was all about getting the kids to practice their communication skills and work together as a team to form a consensus under a time limit. This was one of the labs designed to practice the soft skills needed to succeed in STEM.

The Design and Test a Catapult lab was meant to challenge the girls to think critically and get creative, while working as a team. It also provided a fun way to highlight basic physics principles like projectile motion, trajectory, and kinetic energy.

Participant Quinn Dunsmore said, “My favorite part of the day was the cup stacking. We had to build muscles to not use your hands. We had to think about it in a unique way to be successful.”

Student Lily Heidrick added, “We made bridges out of chopsticks that had to hold a brick. Mine was one that worked and looked just like the original.”

Which is why it’s important to know how best to protect your most valuable assets – your home and car.

According to a recent State Farm survey, two-thirds of drivers ages 18-43 didn’t realize the optional comprehensive coverage portion of an auto policy is the coverage that would apply if you hit an animal while driving. If you didn’t select that optional comprehensive coverage, you would be paying for those repairs out of your own pocket. Comprehensive also covers damage from severe storms, flooding, earthquakes, and other types of losses like theft and hitting an animal.

Experts at the Insurance Information Institute estimate the average annual cost of comprehensive at about $300 per year (or $25 a month). When asked about their specific auto policy coverages, more than half of Gen Z did not have comprehensive coverage or weren’t sure what coverages were on their policy. 40% of Millennials surveyed indicated they either didn’t have comprehensive coverage or weren’t sure.

By the way, if you have comprehensive coverage on your auto policy, damage from a tree that hits your car would typically be covered.

Along with knowing what comprehensive covers, it’s important to understand other coverages such as:

• Bodily injury liability extends to relatives in your household and those driving your car with your permission and helps to protect your assets when you are at fault in an accident. 
   
• Property damage liability pays for damage you may cause to someone else's property. 
   
• Medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP) pays for the treatment of injuries to the driver and passengers of the policyholder's car.  
   
• Collision pays for damage to your car resulting from a covered collision with another car or object and is sold with a separate deductible. 
   
• Uninsured and underinsured motorist provides coverage if you are hit by an uninsured driver or a driver who doesn’t have sufficient insurance to pay for your loss. This coverage also offers protection in the event a covered driver is the victim of a hit-and-run or if as a pedestrian, you are struck by an uninsured or underinsured motorist.

How did this group’s knowledge fare with other coverage benefits?

More than half (57%) didn't realize the additional benefits offered in car rental coverage. They fared slightly better when asked about the benefits that are part of emergency road service with 3 in 5 (61%) answering correctly, but still nearly 4 in 10 only had a basic knowledge of this coverage.

• Rental car services and reimbursement (or rental car coverage) can help cover the cost of a rental while your vehicle is not drivable, or repairs are underway.   
   
• Emergency road service covers towing, delivery of gas, oil, battery, or tires, up to an hour of repair on place of breakdown, and up to an hour of locksmith services.

Nearly half the survey respondents admit they don’t know their auto policy very well and find coverages confusing. When they have questions, they go to friends or family, research online or ask their local insurance agent.

With so much to consider, it’s important to speak to an agent with insurance experience who can assist in the process.

State Farm is here to help you determine the right type of insurance coverage for you.

Interested in learning more?

Check out these resources.

Car Insurance Coverage Options

Factors That Affect Car Insurance Rates

Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage

Get Roadside Assistance

Auto Insurance Discounts

Choose Car Insurance Deductibles & Coverages Well

First Time Car Insurance: What You Should Know

Insurance Questions To Ask Your Agent

What Are the Different Types of Insurance?

A State Farm agent can help you chose insurance coverage that helps protect your specific needs.

Safe Kids Worldwide® and State Farm® announce the launch of the Good Neighbor Car Seat Safety Program. Kicking off Child Passenger Safety Week (September 17-23), this new program brings car seat checkup events to 25 communities across the country over the next few months, increasing access to education and resources to help inspire behavior change and create a culture of safety for children and families.

At each event, Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will work with parents and caregivers to help ensure children are buckled up in the right seat, every ride, every time.

Statistics are grim:
 

• Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1-12 in the U.S. (source: CDC)
   
• In 2021, one in three children under age 13 who died in a crash were unrestrained. (source: NHTSA)
   
• Studies examining misuse among users of child car seats estimate that more than half of car seats are not used or installed correctly. (source: Safe Kids Worldwide)

“A properly used and installed child safety seat can reduce the risk of injury by as much as 71 percent, but too many families do not have access to the education and safety devices that every child deserves,” says Torine Creppy, president of Safe Kids Worldwide. “We are grateful to State Farm for their commitment to keeping all kids safe. Through their continued support, we look forward to expanding our partnership so we can reach more families, prevent more injuries, and save more lives.”

"As a leader in auto safety for decades, State Farm knows firsthand what a difference car seats make at getting more kids home safely each day,” says Sonya Robinson, Vice President, State Farm Corporate Responsibility. “That experience is why we’re grateful for the opportunity to expand this partnership with Safe Kids Worldwide and give more parents the tools to keep kids safe on the road.”

About Safe Kids Worldwide:

Safe Kids Worldwide is a nonprofit organization working to reduce unintentional injuries to children ages 0-14 and build equitable and sustained systems that support injury prevention. Safe Kids works with strategic partners and an extensive network of more than 400 coalitions in the U.S. to reduce traffic injuries, drownings, sleep-related deaths, falls, burns, poisonings, and more. Since 1988, Safe Kids and its partners have contributed to a more than 60 percent reduction in the rate of fatal childhood unintentional injury in the U.S. Learn more at safekids.org.

State Farm mourns the loss of life and property alongside the residents of Maui and State of Hawaii. Our hearts and thoughts go out to those who have been affected by this devastating fire, and we urge all those impacted to make safety their priority. In preparation for the time residents safely return and are ready to begin the rebuilding and recovery process, we have mobilized teams of claim adjusters trained for disaster response across the affected area. Our top priority is taking care of our customers' needs, and we are on the ground and reaching out to help. We also have thousands of employees ready to handle claims virtually across the country in our centralized operations.

Catastrophe Customer Care site now open

A State Farm Catastrophe Customer Care site is now open for walk-up questions and help with claims. The Catastrophe Customer Care site is located at 424 Dairy Road in Kahului (the U-Haul parking lot and former K-mart building) and is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. HT. Customers impacted by the fires can file a claim in various ways: in person at the Catastrophe Customer Care site, through the mobile app, online, or calling 1-800-SF-CLAIM. Customers are encouraged to file their claims as soon as possible and safe to begin the recovery process. As of Aug 18, State Farm has received approximately 1,300 claims from the HI wildfire, with 1,020 of those from Lahaina area.

Local agents join Customer Response Unit to support residents

Our State Farm Customer Response Unit (CRU) has been traveling throughout the areas impacted by the fire as accessible to meet and support residents. Our CRU team and local State Farm Agents Chad Santiago, Kit Okazaki and Wayde Omura have joined the CRU to distribute needed items such as water, work gloves, first aid kits, and other essential items to help residents as they begin recovery from the devastating wildfires. Claims representatives also joined the CRU to offer neighbors helpful information about filing their claim and insurance tips and answer questions. State Farm is there to help residents during this first and critical step on the road to recovery. 

Helping communities with recovery

In keeping with the Good Neighbor spirit, State Farm is sending $1 million in grants to Hawaii non-profit organizations to help with immediate and long-term wildfire recovery efforts. The following local organizations will receive financial support to continue their critical recovery work:

• Habitat for Humanity Maui      
   
• American Red Cross Hawaii Region      
   
• Maui Food Bank      
   
• Convoy of Hope      
   
• Hawaiian Salvation Army         
   

Using technology to assist with claims  

State Farm is making the most of technology to reach customers in more ways and make the process of resolving claims even faster and easier:

• Use of aerial imagery is allowing State Farm to quickly assess damage and accessibility of impacted areas in a way that is safe and efficient.       
   
• Digital pay options allow for claim settlements to be direct-deposited into customers’ bank accounts, getting funds to customers more quickly, whether or not banks are open.       
   
• Customers are encouraged to use the State Farm Mobile App and online account access for many self-service options such as filing and tracking claims, uploading documents during the claim process, requesting emergency roadside service, setting up a rental car reservation, and setting up digital pay.  

Part of that responsibility is taking care of a vehicle and keeping it safe while in your possession. Whether you’re a brand new driver or as experienced as they come, there are simple tips to help prevent your car from becoming an easy target for theft.

5 tips to help prevent auto theft
 

1. Always lock the doors. Even if it’s just out of sight for a couple minutes.
    
2. Never leave your vehicle while the engine is running. It doesn't save you much time, and it's an open invitation for thieves to steal your car.
    
3. Take your keys with you. Even a spare key hidden out of sight is a bad idea. The bad guys know all the hiding places.
    
4. Roll up your windows all the way. It's amazing what an experienced car thief can do with a sliver of an opening.
    
5. Hide valuables. Keep your personal belongings out of sight, preferably in the trunk.

Want to take it a step further?  

When possible:

• Park in populated areas. You'll be safer getting in and out, and thieves are less likely to disturb cars parked on busy, well-lit streets. Even better, park in a secure garage if available.
   
• Activate vehicle anti-theft devices. Smart keys, electronic tracking devices, hood locks, visible steering wheel lock.

While the crime is too common, car theft can be deterred with simple steps and will greatly increase the likelihood that your car will be exactly where you left it.

While the number of dog-related injury claims in 2022 underscores the progress of educating dog owners to take responsibility for their beloved pets, the amount paid for these claims draws attention to the financial cost of a dog bite or injury claim. In addition to medical expenses, homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover dog bite legal expenses, up to the liability limits on the policy. If the claim exceeds the limit, the dog owner is responsible for all damages above that amount out of their own pocket.

Top 10 states for State Farm dog-related claims in 2022

State Farm is a member of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week® (April 9-15, 2023) Coalition. The insurer joins the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Insurance Information Institute (Triple I), American Humane, and dog behavior expert Victoria Stilwell to draw attention to dog bites and ways to reduce injuries to people and pets.

In March 2023, State Farm and members of the National Dog Bite Prevention Coalition conducted an Ask Suzy survey of over 1,330 participants about their experience with dogs.

• 23%, nearly a quarter of participants, said they have been injured by a scratch from a dog, while 19% said they have been injured by a bite.  
   
• 17% of participants people responded “YES” their dog has either bitten them or another dog.  
   
• 11% of survey participants filed an insurance claim because of a dog-related injury.  
   
• 6% of participants have either sued or been sued because of a dog-related injury claim.

It is important to remember that just like humans, dogs are individuals, and every dog has a unique personality. While a dogs’ breed may dictate how they look, how a dog reacts in a situation isn’t guaranteed by breed or type. Even well-trained dogs can bite if they are put into the wrong situation. Responsible pet ownership is key to reducing the risk. In fact, according to the Ask Survey results, 74% of people responded there needed to be MORE awareness and education on dog bite prevention. 

Reduce the Risk of Your Dog Biting: Providing the Basics

Owning a pet is a privilege. There are a few basic needs that all pet owners should be able to provide for the health and safety of pets and the people around them.

Reduce the Risk of Your Dog Biting: Pay Attention to Your Pet

Accidents happen when people aren’t paying attention. Be aware of delivery drivers. E-commerce sales as a percentage of total retail sales have doubled in the past seven years, and many Americans are having more and more deliveries brought to their doors. These interactions have the potential for trouble, so avoid letting your dog come to the front door to greet people.

Reduce the Risk of Your Dog Biting: Changes in Pet Health and Pain

Make sure your pet is healthy. Not all illnesses and injuries are obvious, and dogs are more likely to bite if they are sick or in pain. Routine visits to the vet may pick up on early signs of illness. If you don’t have a pet medical insurance policy in place to cover illness or injury, talk to your State Farm agent or go online to learn how a Trupanion policy can help with medical expenses.

Infographics (click to view larger) 

 

In an instant, those hopes and dreams were nearly shattered for Maggie.

At the age of eight, Maggie suffered a severe injury after being attacked by a retired police dog. “My parents took me to a local community medical clinic but they only spoke Spanish and the doctors spoke English so I had to translate for them,” said Maggie. “The whole incident was like a bad dream and even today, I only remember bits and pieces.”

When doctors said they may have no option but to amputate the leg, Maggie’s mom insisted on a second opinion at a different hospital. Thankfully, doctors were able to save her leg. While the physical scars have long since healed, her emotional scars and fear of dogs lasted for four decades.

After the attack, Maggie was constantly on guard for signs of dogs -- even when they weren’t visible. She listened for the sounds of a dog tag on a collar, barking behind a fence, or any signs that a dog was near so she could avoid them. Little did she know that this heightened awareness and observational skills would be critical in her career.

Maggie began her fire service career in 2004 as a Fire Prevention Specialist with the City of Escondido Fire Department before joining the Chula Vista Fire Department (CVFD) in 2012 as a Fire Investigator. When she joined CVFD, her office was literally steps from her biggest fear … a dog. Just two years earlier, Fire Investigator Darin Golden had trained and certified with his partner, K9 Cali, through the State Farm Arson Dog Program. K9 Cali was an accelerant detection canine, commonly called an arson dog, whose job was to find evidence of gas or fuel at fire scenes. K9 Cali lived and worked with Investigator Golden every day, even staying in his office when they weren’t investigating a fire. An office that was just steps away from Maggie.

Even though she was scared, Maggie respected that K9 Cali was a member of the fire department. Over the years, the sweet demeanor of K9 Cali and Darin’s patience helped her become more comfortable around dogs. She also realized the important work that Darin and K9 Cali did at fire investigations and as she thought about it, she realized that the reason she joined the fire service was to help people and improve her community. Working with a law enforcement dog would allow her to do that more effectively. So, when K9 Cali retired after 12 years on the job, Maggie decided to do what many in her life thought was impossible.

Maggie Greene applied to train as an arson dog handler as the replacement team for Darin and K9 Cali. And for the second time, a dog was changing the course of her life.

Her family wanted to support her but had many questions. Would she be able to live and work every day with a dog knowing her fear? Maggie was allergic to dog fur so how would that impact her work and life?  Training and working a dog every single day is a huge commitment for a busy mother. Could she manage it? Still, she persisted, willing to make sacrifices to reach her goal just like her parents had done as Mexican immigrants. Her family understood and told her, “We will do whatever you want us to do to support you.” This is what family is about and in Maggie’s words, “I don’t do this alone.”

In April 2022, Maggie faced her fears and overcame the emotional obstacles she has held for over 40 years by training through the State Farm Arson Dog Program and becoming the first Latina arson canine handler. Along with her new partner, K9 Hannah, Maggie investigates arson crimes for her community. While she hasn’t thought of herself as a role model, when she looks back at all she has overcome, she hopes she can “inspire just one person” with her story.  In her own words, “I am one blessed soul.”

This year’s campaign, “Fire Won’t Wait, Plan Your Escape,” works to educate families on the simple actions they can take to keep their property, themselves, and their families safe from common home fires. Additionally, State Farm wants to stress the importance of smoke alarm safety – properly installing and checking batteries to help ensure you’re alerted quickly giving you and your family members enough time to escape. Taking 15 minutes twice a year to do both these things can save your life.
 

Home Fire Escape Plan

Did you know you have as little as two minutes to safely escape a home fire from the time your smoke alarm sounds? According to the National Library of Medicine, only 23% of families in the United States have a fire escape plan and have practiced it.

It is important for everyone to plan and practice a home fire escape. This includes adults, children, and people with disabilities that may need assistance to escape a burning home quickly. Other things to consider:

• If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure you can fit through the doorways.
• Keep your walker, scooter, cane, or wheelchair by your bed/where you sleep to make sure you can reach it quickly
• Keep your eyeglasses, mobile phone, and a flashlight by your bed/where you sleep to be able to reach them quickly in an emergency.
• For people who are visually impaired or blind, the sound of the smoke alarm can become disorienting in an emergency. Practice the escape plan with the sound of the alarm to become familiar with, and practice with the extra noise.
• If you have a service animal, agree on a plan to keep the animal with you during an emergency.
• When looking for an apartment or high-rise home, look for one with an automatic sprinkler system.
• For people with cognitive disabilities, work with their healthcare providers and local fire department to make a plan that works for their needs.

The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) has created a printable Home Safety Action Plan – use this to plan your escape and learn tips for property installing and operating smoke alarms in various rooms throughout your home. 

• Family’s Home Safety Action Plan
• El Plan de acción de seguridad del hogar de la Familia

For more information about Fire Prevention Week and this year’s theme, visit fpw.org.

Installing/Testing Smoke Alarms

Installing

• To install a battery-powered alarm, all you need is a drill and screwdriver. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.
• Hard-wired alarms should be installed by a qualified electrician. All hard-wired smoke alarms should be interconnected: If one alarm is activated, all alarms will sound.
• Install a smoke alarm in each bedroom.
• Never install a smoke alarm too close to windows, doors, vents or ceiling fans where drafts could blow smoke away from an alarm.
• If you have questions about where to install your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department. Many departments will conduct home smoke alarm inspections for free or a minimal fee.

Testing

• If you have standalone battery-powered alarms, test them once a month and replace the batteries once a year.
• Make sure that everyone in your household knows the sound of the alarms.
• Never paint any part of a smoke alarm.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions when cleaning your alarms. Dust and debris can usually be removed by using a vacuum cleaner attachment.

State Farm is encouraging everyone to celebrate Good Neighbor Month this September by demonstrating what being a good neighbor is all about through acts of kindness.

Here are some ideas:

1. Find the issues that move you. Look for relatable causes that also inspire you to act.
2. Be honest about what you can offer. Use your skills, hobbies or abilities to help others.
3. Try something new. If you just want to help, however you can, look for causes that stretch you a bit.
4. Resist overcommitting. Keep from burning out by making time for friends, family and yourself.
5. Bring your friends. Inviting friends to volunteer is fun and can help the cause even more.
6. Be smart about it. Do some research to see how your time and energy make an impact.

Find volunteer opportunities near you.

And remember, even something as simple as buying someone a cup of coffee can make a person’s day a little brighter.

Happy Good Neighbor Month!

State Farm® is kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) by sharing three Hispanic agents’ perspectives on working in a sometimes-challenging environment.

Agent Vivian Mora, Hoover and Irondale, Alabama

Vivian was the first Latina State Farm agent in Alabama. When she started her Agency career on New Year’s Day 2009, it wasn’t always easy,

In Vivian’s words: The differences I brought as a Hispanic agent were not always accepted, Many customers did not like how we sounded or how the team members did not look like them. That’s human nature, but we are part of this community, and we are here to stay and to be an asset to help it grow and prosper.

During good times and bad times, claim after claim, disaster after disaster, I take the privilege of being part of this elite group very seriously and want to be an active part of the State Farm customer-centric, community-focused culture every day,

Agent Antonio Vela, Durham, North Carolina

Antonio has been with State Farm for nine years and is proud of his community.

In Antonio’s words: The current political and social environment can add to the challenges of being a Hispanic agent, but we are proud to represent our Hispanic community in this professional financial and insurance industry in the best way possible.

Owning my own business was always a dream for me, and State Farm gave me the opportunity I was waiting for.

After meeting with a lot of people and studying different endeavors for years, I met the right people at State Farm. I then learned about the company’s mission and vision, and I decided to start my journey first as an agent team member and then as a State Farm agent.

Agent Fernando Arguello, Brentwood, Tennessee

Fernando understands there are always challenges to being a business owner, especially as a minority, but he focuses on the positive.

In Fernando’s words: I’m proud to be a Latino and bilingual. I’ve had the incredible opportunity to build relationships with clients from all different backgrounds.

As a 14-year agent, I understand the importance of creating a sense of community for customers.

My advice to new agents is always to ensure your client's best interests are at the core of your business. Compassion, trust, and reliability will help maintain relationships with current clients and encourage references to help grow your business.

State Farm sponsored, and participated in, the Black Women’s Expo (BWe) held in August in Chicago. BWe is the nation’s longest running, most-respected, intergenerational exposition for Black women and their families. It’s where women gather to share ideas, search for solutions, and grow their businesses.

Chicago State Farm agent Demetrius Barbee attended the BWe as an agent representative at the State Farm booth and said, “I’m excited to be here kicking off the Black Women’s Expo! State Farm is here, we have the most beautiful, exciting booth, our customers are super engaged and really excited about seeing us and seeing all the vendors. It’s a great event for State Farm!”

As an exhibitor at the event, State Farm hosted the State Farm Hometown exhibit, providing small business owners – and those exploring small business – an opportunity to learn how the Company can provide a unique holistic experience for small businesses.

According to the national nonprofit Girls Who Code, in 1995, 37% of computer scientists were women. Today, it’s only 24%. And,the biggest drop off of girls in computer science is between the ages of 13 and 17.

But, a great event, called the Tech Astra^TM Summit, is working to close the gender gap in technology. Hosted by State Farm^®, Tech Astra (meaning, “star”) is a one-day, in-person and virtual summit to engage 5th-12th grade girls across the country in science, technology, engineering and math.

Tech Astra will be all day Saturday, October 1 beginning at 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (CST) at our Home Office in Bloomington, IL, our three HUB locations in Atlanta, Phoenix, and Dallas, and on Zoom.

Participants will:

• Engage in hands-on labs in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
• Participate in our new Self-Improvement labs to build confidence and promote self-awareness 
• Socialize with other female and non-binary students who have similar interests in STEM
• Enjoy a main event for each age group partnering with several AMAZING surprise guests

Registration for the summit runs from now until September 10. Visit TechAstra! to sign up and check out the video for more details on the summit!

State Farm is a strong supporter of STEM, advancing technology and the ability for all people to realize their dreams. 

For more information about the Tech Astra Summit and/or to schedule an interview with a member of our Tech Astra team, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

An accelerant detection canine, or arson dog, is trained to detect and locate trace amounts of ignitable liquids such as gas or fuel. The average dog’s nose is tens of thousands of times more sensitive to odors than a human nose. The part of a dog's brain that is devoted to analyzing smells is, proportionally speaking, 40 times greater than a human. That is truly a superpower.

Training Superhero Dogs

The first State Farm Arson Dog Program class was held in February 1993 in Gray, ME, where five handlers were trained under the guidance of Maine State Trooper Paul Gallagher. Since then, over 435 arson dog teams have been trained for fire investigation and placed in 46 U.S. states, three Canadian provinces and the District of Columbia. Paul, now a retired trooper, and his company, Maine Specialty Dogs, still train all the dogs and handlers in the State Farm Arson Dog Program. Outside of state or federal agencies, there is no other company in North America providing funding for the acquisition and training of accelerant detection canine teams.

Nearly 30 years after that first training class, the State Farm Arson Dog Program is stronger than ever. In April 2022, the program graduated and certified 17 new arson dog teams for departments in the U.S. and Canada. The class also reached a historic milestone. To celebrate the 100 year anniversary of State Farm, the Arson Dog Program now has 100 certified arson dog teams operating in North America. Our mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams. Sometimes it takes the nose of a dog to help make that a reality.

State Farm^® is giving 100 communities in 34 states an assist to fund neighborhood improvement projects. In just 10 days this spring, 88,000 people cast more than 2 million votes in support of their favorite causes. State Farm is proud to announce the Top 100 vote-getting causes. Each has won a $25,000 grant to benefit their community.

State Farm Neighborhood Assist is a crowd-sourced philanthropic program. It empowers communities to identify issues in their neighborhoods. Non-profits affiliated with each of the top 100 causes receive grants to address them.

“State Farm is happy to celebrate its 100th anniversary by providing these 100 causes with grant money to help them address the needs in their communities,” said Rasheed Merritt, Assistant Vice President at State Farm. “We look forward to seeing the impact these $25,000 grants will have.”

Four thousand cause submissions were accepted in February at www.neighborhoodassist.com. The State Farm Review Committee selected the top 200 finalists and public voting determined the 100 grant winners. In the 11 years of the program, nearly 500 causes have received a total of $12.5 million to enact change in their communities.

For a complete list of this year’s winning causes, please visit: www.neighborhoodassist.com.

Consider these safety tips to make your travel adventure fun and safe.

• The safest way for dogs to travel in a car is in a crate. The crate should be large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in.
• Another option to securely travel with your dog is in a dog car harness or seat belt. Most cars weren't designed with dogs in mind, so your regular seat belt won't fit them. A dog car harness can keep any sized dog safely strapped up in your car.
• Just like children, dogs should never ride with their heads out of a window. A dog's eyes, ears or nose could be injured from flying debris such as leaves, pebbles or a bug.
• Never leave your pets in the car alone for any length of time. Temperatures can rise 20° in just 10 minutes, putting them at risk.

When traveling with your dog there are items that should make the trip with you.

• Food and water – Bring enough of your dog's typical food for the entire trip and a collapsible water bowl.
• Familiar blankets – Comfy blankets or towels that smell like home will provide comfort.
• Potty bags – You don't want to be caught without them!
• Vaccination records – If you're crossing a border or boarding your pet, records will likely be needed.
• Medicine – You don't want to be without your dog's routine medication or anxiety treatment.
• Toys and treat – They'll love you for remembering their favorite things.

Finally, expect the unexpected. Pets are experts at the unpredictable, and new and unexpected illnesses and injuries happen. Before you start your travels, talk to your State Farm^® agent about how a pet medical insurance with Trupanion can help protect your pets, or start your free, no-obligation quote online. The great thing is that a pet medical insurance policy follows you and your pet on your travels!

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) odometer fraud is defined as the disconnection, resetting or alteration of a motor vehicle’s odometer with the intent to change the number of miles indicated. It is estimated that 450,000 vehicles are sold each year with false odometer readings, a crime that costs American car buyers $1 billion annually.

The NHTSA offers up these tips to detect odometer fraud:

• ASK to see the title and compare the mileage on it with the vehicle’s odometer. Be sure to examine the title closely if the mileage notation seems obscured or is not easy to read.
   
• COMPARE the mileage on the odometer with the mileage indicated on the vehicle’s maintenance or inspection records. Also, search for oil change and maintenance stickers on windows or door frames, in the glove box or under the hood.
   
• CHECK that the numbers on the odometer gauge are aligned correctly. If they’re crooked, contain gaps or jiggle when you bang on the dash with your hand, walk away from the purchase.
   
• EXAMINE the tires. If the odometer on your car shows 20,000 or less, it should have the original tires. LOOK at the wear and tear on the vehicle — especially the gas, brake and clutch pedals — to be sure it seems consistent with and appropriate for the number of miles displayed on the odometer.
   
• REQUEST a vehicle history report from a service, such as CARFAX, to check for odometer discrepancies in the vehicle’s history. If the seller does not have a vehicle history report, use the car’s VIN to order a vehicle history report online.
   
• VISIT www.nhtsa.gov to learn more information about odometer fraud.

Additionally, the NHTSA has identified that laws and regulations have passed at the federal level aimed at mitigating odometer fraud. The law requires written disclosure of the mileage registered on an odometer be provided by the seller to the purchaser on the title to the vehicle when the ownership of a vehicle is transferred. If the odometer mileage is incorrect, the law requires a statement to that effect to be furnished on the title to the buyer. However, vehicles ten years and older are exempt from the written disclosure requirements.

• Read the full story from GSU 

Around 846 bicyclists are killed each year in crashes with motor vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Taking safety precautions, knowing what to watch out for and educating yourself on the biking rules of the road is extremely important. There are several things to keep in mind when taking a bike to work.

Safe biking includes wearing the right clothing and equipment.

Make sure you have these items:

• Helmet. A properly fitted helmet with a liner is important.
• Basic equipment. Make sure your bike is equipped with reflectors, a front headlight and a rear light. A rear light that flashes is preferred. A lock will keep it safe while you're away and a bell could be helpful in congested areas.
• Clothing. Make sure you select appropriate clothing so you can be easily seen when riding. Wear light-colored or reflective clothing to enhance visibility, particularly at dusk and into the evening hours. Never wear clothing items that can get caught in any part of the bicycle such as the spokes or chain. Always tuck and secure shoe laces and pant legs so they don't get caught in your bike chain.
• Repair equipment. Having an extra tire tube, a bike pump and a small bag of tools will help if a tire should blow or be damaged.

Plan your bike commuting route

Plan out and try your riding routes before you start to commute. Choose routes with less traffic and slower speeds. Look for routes with bike lines, bike paths, reliable surfaces and slow to moderate vehicle traffic. Your safest route may be away from traffic altogether.

Biking rules of the road

Educate yourself on the rules of the road for biking and e-biking. If a crash were to occur, the unfortunate reality is that the cyclist is more likely to be injured than the motorist. Knowing and understanding the rules of the road will keep you safer.

Types of bicycle crashes
 

• Left cross. A left cross accident happens when a car heading the opposite direction makes a left turn and doesn't see the cyclist.
• Right hook. A right hook accident is when a car driving the same direction cuts off a cyclist in a right-hand turn.

Also, be sure to know what insurance coverage you have and what they cover in case of an accident. In some states, State Farm® offers a Personal Mobility Policy (PMP).

Don't drink and bike 

This should go without saying, but don't bike to work if you're planning on attending happy hour or plan to consume alcohol. Alcohol increases the chance of an accident. Nearly 40% of cyclist fatalities were due to alcohol impairment.

Remember, you can get stopped while riding a bike if you are suspected of being under the influence of alcohol in most states. The term vehicle can be interpreted to include the use of a bicycle or other form of transportation. Make sure you plan your day accordingly to avoid riding your bike after consuming alcohol.

Bike riding reminders

Preparation and education can help make your bike commute safer. 

Here are a few key reminders:

• Preplan and find the safest route to work.
• Ride a bike that fits you so it is easy to control.
• Ride a bike that works well, is maintained and has properly working brakes.
• Always check the tire inflation before a commute.
• Make sure bikes have reflectors and lights.
• Never wear headphones, as it is a distraction and hinders your ability to hear and focus.
• Always lock your bike at your workplace and any place it is unattended.
• Carry all items in a backpack or strapped to the back of the bike.
• Tuck and tie your shoe laces and pant legs so they don't get caught in your bike chain.

Driving reminders

Commuting via bike or e-bike is increasing in popularity. When driving a vehicle, make sure you understand and know how to navigate with the bicycling community. Here are few key reminders for drivers:

• Stay out of bike lanes.
• Pass cyclists slowly and with caution.
• Always yield to bikers as they have the right of way.
• Always be aware of any oncoming bikers.
• Look for bikes or bikers before opening your car door.

Lincoln has the same experience and so does Nancy, Shannon, Hannah, and the other canines trained through the State Farm Arson Dog Program. These crime fighting canines work alongside their human handler to locate potential evidence of arson at a fire scene. Their nose and drive to work are their superpowers, sniffing through debris and burned materials to locate the location of gas or fuel that may have been used to start the fire.

Arson is one of the most difficult crimes to solve. Fire investigators are trained to look for burn patterns and collect evidence when a fire has been suspiciously started. The only problem is our human nose can smell all the burned debris, wet wood, and smoke from the fire but not the drops of fuel that may have been used to accelerate the fire. A dog's sense of smell is estimated to be 10,000 to 100,000 times better than that of a human. An arson dog can work through a fire scene efficiently, smell a drop of gas or fuel amongst all the debris, and differentiate the smell of fuel from all the other odors. Talk about a superpower!

The State Farm Arson Dog program has been helping communities, law enforcement and fire departments across North America since 1993. Over the past 29 years, the program has provided 100% of the funding for the acquisition and training of over 435 accelerant detection canine (ADC) teams throughout the United States and Canada. These teams help law enforcement to efficiently and effectively collect valuable evidence that may be used in the prosecution of an arsonist. They investigate home, business, vehicle, and wildland fires. The dog and training are donated by State Farm to a community so that arson crimes will be investigated, prosecuted, and hopefully, act as a deterrent for fire setters.
 

State Farm Arson Dog Program Class #54

For the past 29 years, Paul Gallagher and his trainers with Maine Specialty Dogs have been training teams for the State Farm Arson Dog program. This year, 17 law enforcement and fire investigators complete 200 hours training at the New Hampshire Fire Training Academy in Concord with their new canine partner. The intensive training drills take place day, night and weekends but after 4 weeks, they return to their communities as certified accelerant detection canine teams. 

2022 Arson Awareness Week

Each year for Arson Awareness Week, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) gathers and shares information to raise awareness of arson to provide the fire service and community residents with strategies to combat these problems in their community. Arson Awareness Week is held May 1-7, 2022 and the theme this year is “Arson in Homeless Communities: Engagement – Education – Outreach”. For more information, educational materials, and register for a webinar on the topic visit the U.S. Fire Administration website.

Rosebud Scholarship Fund won a Neighborhood Assist grant in 2019 and one of its students is Shallon. Shallon is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, grew up on the reservation in South Dakota, and currently attends college in Minnesota, majoring in sociology.

“I really want to come back and be a mentor for the youth here, so they don’t have to struggle like I did,” said Shallon.

Watch the video to see the positive impact of a Neighborhood Assist grant on this community.

Every Vote Counts (as an Act of Good!)

Voting for Neighborhood Assist is an Act of Good. Every time you vote, we encourage you to record that Act (and all your other amazing Acts) on the 100forGood website or app (available on iOS and Android).

For nearly 100 years, State Farm^® has been committed to encouraging safe driving behaviors. Today’s drivers are surrounded by many devices and activities that may distract them from driving safely. While distractions themselves have changed over the years, the responsibility of the driver remains the same: Focus on the road and stay engaged while driving safely.

New State Farm research completed in March 2022 suggests that consumers may not be fully focused on driving. Far too often drivers are choosing to drive distracted even when they are fully aware of the danger. The survey shows half of the drivers on the road admit to bad behavior – frightening stats:

• More than half of drivers said they “always” or “often” read or send texts.
• Nearly half interact with apps while driving.
• At least two in five drivers admitted to watching videos or manually dialing the phone while driving.
• One-third of drivers reported using video chat or recording video while driving.

Distractions are varied – and can be avoided. Loud music, eating while driving, speeding, pets moving in the front seat, rubbernecking and phone usage can all be managed to prevent a crash. A person’s mental state when behind the wheel can be distracting and lead to disaster, causing more than 100,000 crashes each year.

It’s become clear that we must do more to shift the culture of distracted driving. The responsibility for change begins with each of us limiting our own distractions behind the wheel, setting an example to those around us, and asking those we care about to put down the phone and focus on the road.

             

As State Farm founder G.J. Mecherle (pictured) once said, “The greatest troubles we have are what we bring on ourselves.” 

About the survey: 

In February 2022, the State Farm Enterprise Research Department used an outside panel vendor to conduct an online survey of U.S. consumers ages 18 and older. Survey responses were received from 828 consumers who reported having a valid driver’s license and driving at least one hour per week. 

 These words, shared by State Farm executives Sonya Robinson and Christopher Gude, rang loud and proud at the 15^th annual Disney Dreamers Academy (DDA).

 The four-day program, held at the Walt Disney World^® Resort annually in March, nurtures the career aspirations of teens from across the country, particularly Black/African-American students and those in underrepresented communities, by encouraging them to DREAM BIG.

Like a Good Neighbor

Following the news of a multi-year strategic alliance with Disney, Sonya and Christopher were honored to represent State Farm at the Academy. The former State Farm agents now oversee business development and growth in western states.

 “Getting a chance to spend time with the students and share my story … I was in their shoes 30 years ago,” Christopher said. “I want them to know they have what it takes to succeed.”

 During a workshop dedicated to helping Dreamers thrive, the pair got personal, shedding light on their modest upbringings in rural communities where opportunities were limited.

 “Being an African-American child in the South was not easy and I often faced racial adversity and exclusion,” Sonya explained. “I didn’t let that stop me. Through education, work ethic and the strength of those before me, I overcame obstacles.”

 “Challenges are part of the journey,” Christopher said. “It’s how you respond that determines your success.”

The Pursuit of Purpose

Sonya and Christopher’s testimonies resonated with teens and adults. During DDA, the duo shared words of wisdom at networking events, workshops, and an exclusive ‘Neighborhood DA Jam’ party sponsored by State Farm.

 “Having the opportunity to learn from such dynamic people is incredible,” said 16-year-old Dreamer from Jacksonville, FL, Christianna Alexander. “I’m inspired.”

 During an entrepreneurship dinner, Christianna, who is also a published author, shared her aspirations with Sonya and Christopher.

 “They encouraged me to keep reaching for the stars,” she said. “Their experiences affirm I’m on the right path. I’m going to keep working hard while lifting others up, too.”

 Disney Dreamer alum Matthew Young (2014) echoed Christianna’s sentiments.

 “This academy surrounds you with people who are dedicated to pulling out the best in you. Through this process I have learned, grown and realized new possibilities,” Matthew said.

 On the final day of the academy – graduation – students received a ring. The gift symbolizes where they’ve been, what’s to come and the joy derived from relentlessly pursuing your passion.

 “Always remember to believe in yourself, support one another, and encourage each other’s destinies,” said Sonya.

About the alliance:

State Farm and Disney are committed to giving back to communities, spreading joy and creating unforgettable memories. Consumers will see the alliance come to life in ways such as Good Neighbor Month celebrations (September), the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (January 2023), Disney podcast sponsorships and more. State Farm will also sponsor two venues located at Walt Disney World® Resort: State Farm Waterview Park at Disney Springs and State Farm Field House at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

So how did pet owners do in 2021?

While dog-related injury claims increased slightly, the increase wasn’t as high as many feared. In 2021, State Farm paid nearly $162 million dollars for over 3,260 dog-related injury claims. The number of claims increased slightly by 2.3% compared to 2020 data, while the amount paid increased by 3%.

State Farm is a member of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week® (April 10-16,2022) Coalition. The insurer joins the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Insurance Information Institute (Triple I), American Humane, and dog behavior expert Victoria Stilwell to draw attention to dog bites and ways to reduce injuries to people and pets.

Just like humans, dogs are individuals, and every dog has a unique personality. While a dogs’ breed may dictate how they look, how a dog reacts in a situation isn’t guaranteed by breed or type. It’s important to remember that even well-trained dogs can bite if they are put into the wrong situation. That is why State Farm does not ask about dog breed or type when providing homeowner, renters, or business insurance policies. Any dog can bite or cause injury, regardless of breed. Responsible pet ownership is key to reducing the risk.      
 

Reduce the Risk of Your Dog Biting: Providing the Basics

Owning a pet is a privilege. There are a few basic needs that all pet owners should be able to provide for the health and safety of pets and the people around them.

• All dogs require food, clean water, and shelter. A frustrated dog that is hungry and uncomfortable is at a high risk to bite or attack people or animals.
• Most dogs need exercise and play for physical and emotional stimulation. For the safety of not only your dog, but for others as well, always walk your dog on a leash.
• Remind people to ask before reaching out and touching your dog. Don’t be afraid to say “my dog doesn’t want to be touched”.

Reduce the Risk of Your Dog Biting: Pay Attention to Your Pet

Accidents happen when people aren’t paying attention.

• Be physically present with your dog when it is outside. A dog in the backyard can quickly jump over a fence or get loose if a gate is left opened.
• If you are walking your dog, put your phone in your pocket and pay attention to oncoming people or other dogs.
• Never leave a child alone with a dog, including the family pet. Your pet may react or startle at the fast movements of children playing, sounds of a baby crying, or the smell of food your toddler is snacking on.

Reduce the Risk of Your Dog Biting: Changes in Pet Health and Pain

Make sure your pet is healthy. Not all illnesses and injuries are obvious, and dogs are more likely to bite if they are sick or in pain. Routine visits to the vet may pick up on early signs of illness.

• If your dog’s behavior suddenly changes, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your vet and with a positive reinforcement dog trainer.
• If your dog becomes injured, be aware that they may bite when handled so be cautious if you need to lift or move an injured dog.

If you don’t have a pet medical insurance policy in place to cover illness or injury, talk to your State Farm agent or go online to learn how a Trupanion policy can help with medical expenses.

Where will you go? 

In many disasters, evacuation is part of the experience. Before a disaster strikes, locate the pet-friendly hotels in your surrounding areas. Collect their phone numbers and keep them in your disaster backpack so you can call and make the reservation. Also, if a disaster is imminent, as in an approaching firestorm or flood, make the hotel reservation before the evacuation. The hotel may give some type of disaster discount as a community service, so be sure to ask.

• Call local shelters in advance to find out if they provide emergency housing for evacuated pets.
• If you are going to a public shelter, it is important to understand that animals may not be allowed inside. Plan in advance for shelter alternatives that will work for both you and your pets. Consider loved ones or friends outside of your immediate area who would be willing to host you and your pets in an emergency.
• Make a back-up emergency plan in case you can't care for your animals yourself. Develop a buddy system with neighbors, friends and relatives. Make sure someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your own for at least three days.
• Animals have instincts about severe weather changes. They will often isolate themselves if they are afraid. Bringing pets inside early can stop them from running away. Never leave a pet outside or tied up during a storm.
• Photos! Before disaster strikes, take photos of your pets and create simple flyers displaying their photo and your phone number in case you get separated. Save the flyers on your phone so you can email them to local pet businesses in case your pet goes missing.
• Identification! Make sure pets are micro-chipped and wearing a tag with your phone number.
• Plan your on-foot escape route in advance in case you can’t get to your car and have to walk or run.

Prepare a pet supply kit

It may not seem necessary today, but if you find yourself in an emergency situation, having the proper supplies (including food, medications, veterinarian contact, etc.) already packed and ready will be a huge help. 

Your pet disaster kit should include:

• A crate or carrier to transport your pet
• Cat litter and litter box
• Collars with ID tags (and remember to update your pet’s microchip information)
• An extra leash for each pet
• Towel, mat or pet bed for your dog to sit on
• Bottled water and collapsible water bowl
• Three-day food supply
• Toys and treats
• Medication (If your pet is diabetic, talk with your veterinarian about packing glucose paste in case you leave without his insulin)

In a sealed plastic baggie be sure to pack:

• Veterinary records and phone numbers
• Pet insurance information
• Microchip information
• Photos of your pets with missing pet flyers
• A list of pet-friendly hotels and resources with phone numbers
• Pet first aid kit which can be purchased at pet stores or assembled yourself. Include basic first aid items like self-clinging bandaging, gauze pads, antiseptic, hydrogen peroxide, cool pack, thermometer, blunt-end scissors, saline solution, tweezers and a soft muzzle in case your dog needs treatment and becomes fear aggressive.

To help pet owners prepare for the unexpected, State Farm^® has expanded their alliance with Trupanion^®, the leading provider of medical insurance for pets. Customers in 50 states and the District of Columbia can now visit their State Farm agent or enroll online for Trupanion medical insurance for pets.

Michelle and her husband, Joe’s, dream was coming true; the Kaywoods were going to be parents. After several years going through the adoption process they were bringing their new son, Cruz, home.

“We’d been waiting for this for so long,” remembered Michelle. “The whole thing was like a dream.” And for a while, that’s exactly what it was. Michelle, Joe and Cruz were the picture of the perfect loving family. Then a year and a half later, Joe was diagnosed with lymphoma.

“It was devastating,” remembered Michelle. “Our whole world seemed to all of a sudden be coming apart.”

Joe started chemotherapy and Michelle found herself in uncharted territory; taking care of her son and helping her husband through his cancer treatments.

And that’s when Joe and Michelle’s State Farm family stepped up.

Being there

Without being prompted, people from both Joe and Michelle’s teams began showing up with gifts and donations, little things to help the family get through this difficult time.

“It was pretty overwhelming,” said Michelle. “They would bring food and gift cards to restaurants and just offer to help out any way they could.”

That outpouring of good will was definitely appreciated by the entire Kaywood family, but unfortunately, Joe’s condition worsened and he ended up losing his battle with cancer in 2018.

“A hug for Cruz”

Realizing the family could use every bit of help and support, teammates banded together and sent not only their condolences, but gift cards, presents and other things to help the Kaywoods.

“We were all devastated when Joe passed away,” remembered Cheryl Kuba, an Information Security analyst who was a former teammate of both Joe and Michelle’s. “I worked with Michelle way back when and then I worked with Joe.”

“I can remember when Joe came in right after Cruz’s adoption was final,” remembered Cheryl. “I’ve never seen him happier than he was on that day.”

Shortly after Joe’s passing, Cheryl thought about that day in particular and thought of something special she could do for the Kaywoods, in particular for three-year old Cruz.

Joe was a life-long fan of the Detroit Red Wings and so Cheryl, a long-time quilter, asked Michelle if she could use some of Joe’s old Red Wings shirts and jerseys for a project she had in mind.

“I wanted to make something from his dad, something that he could wrap up in so he could get a hug from his dad.”

As you can imagine, this quilt meant the world to Michelle and Cruz.

“We can never thank these folks enough for all they did for us during this time,” said Michelle. “It means more than people can ever know.”

His name was Aladdin.

Aladdin was found on the side of the road in 2013 starving, with broken legs, a broken tail, 12 missing teeth, and open wounds. The animal shelter that took Aladdin in reached out to a local volunteer, Michele Shaffer, who had taken on emaciated foster dogs in the past. She agreed to take Aladdin but didn’t hold much hope for his survival. Aladdin’s spirit thought differently and with the love of Michele and her family, he came back from the brink of death.

Aladdin became a therapy and certified crisis response dog. He became an animal ambassador and therapy dog for several companies, a member of the Purina National Therapy Dog Ambassador team and was named Therapy Dog of the Year in the 2017 American Humane Hero Dog Awards. Aladdin was also the unofficial mascot of Philadelphia sports teams. It wasn't unusual to see Aladdin paired up with stars from national sports teams, celebrities, and rock stars. 

These are all amazing accomplishments but what Aladdin excelled at was forgiveness and love. The trauma of abuse that started Aladdin’s life should have made him wary but Aladdin was always different. He had an instinct to find the one person in a crowd of people who needed his attention. He loved everyone but knew who needed some special “Laddy Love”. He would walk up to a stranger with his wobbled gait, sit on that persons’ foot or lap, and just lean his body in. All his weight would be pressed against that person to show his trust. That was Aladdin. 
 

Aladdin and State Farm

It wasn’t long after meeting Aladdin that State Farm knew he was the perfect ambassador. He became the State Farm Ambassador of Kindness for the Kindness is Powerful program, a joint effort with celebrity dog trainer Victoria Stilwell to visit schools and teach children about being kind to animals and dog bite prevention. He visited schools all over the country. His message was simple – don’t be a bully, show kindness to people and animals, and be responsible around all dogs.

Aladdin was also the first pit bull in history to be on stage at an insurance conference. He joined State Farm on stage at the 2019 Property Insurance Report Conference during a presentation about dog breed restrictions and responsible pet ownership. It created quite a buzz but Aladdin didn’t notice because he was too busy networking aka sitting on laps.

On a personal note, I am lucky to have Michele, Aladdin, and her family in my life. My work at State Farm has allowed me to connect with phenomenal people like her. Michele gave the world a gift when she saved Aladdin and shared him with everyone, including me. When I traveled to events with Michele and Aladdin, I always requested that Laddy sleep with me for at least a few nights. Waking up in a hotel room with him under the covers or sleeping in my arms, his horrible breath blowing on my face was a true joy. The little dog with a broken body but healthy spirit could do more to teach about love and respect than any human could.

On Tuesday, March 8, 2022, Aladdin passed away. His legacy will live on in a book called Aladdin the Superhero by Arin Greenwood. His legacy will hopefully help teach people the value of not judging others based on looks and showing love and kindness to everyone…a message that we need now more than ever. I will miss him but have a spot in my heart forever etched with “Aladdin lives here”.

State Farm does not ask what breed of dog is owned when writing homeowner or renters insurance. Just like humans, dogs are individuals. Every dog has a unique personality. While a dogs’ breed may dictate what the dog looks like, how a dog reacts to people or situations isn’t guaranteed by breed or type.

You may also want to consider the importance of your dog having insurance of their own. State Farm is working with Trupanion, a leader in high-quality insurance for cats and dogs, to help protect your pet from new and unexpected illnesses and injuries. Discover how a pet insurance policy can be there for your pet during their lifetime. Talk to a State Farm agent or get a free, no-obligation quote online today.
 

2017 American Humane Hero Dog Awards - Therapy Dog Category - Aladdin

• Nearly a fifth of all parents surveyed admitted that they did not use a child safety seat in the vehicle, putting their children’s lives at risk.
• State Farm is celebrating its 100^th anniversary and its long-standing commitment to safety.
• It is the 25th anniversary of the landmark child passenger safety research partnership between State Farm and The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia®.

Safety restraints are critically important for a child’s safety. Yet, as the child grows, car seat safety may take a back seat. The survey revealed that one in four children who used a child safety seat were not using it every time they rode in a vehicle.

The most listed reasons why parents did not use a child safety seat on every ride were:

• 34% - was a short trip
• 33% - not enough room for the child seat/booster
• 29% - the child was upset and did not want to use it

When parents use child safety seats, misuse is a widespread issue. According to the survey, 58% of parents reported at least one type of seat misuse, such as:

Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children residing in the U.S. When children are properly restrained in a child safety seat, booster seat or safety belt, as appropriate for their age and size, their chance of being killed or seriously injured in a car crash is greatly reduced. When used properly, child safety seats reduce fatal injury by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers in passenger cars.

The public seems to understand the severity of this issue according to a new poll by Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety that shows 92% are concerned with the lack of seat belt use or safety seats for child passengers, and 65% said they are extremely or very concerned. There seems to be a disconnect between truly acknowledging the importance of child safety seat and every day, “in real-life” use. Being a parent is hard. But all it takes is one time, one crash.

Car seat safety has come a long way

In 1997, the number one killer of children up to four years of age was motor vehicle crashes. In 2022, this is no longer the case. Child occupant (ages zero to four) deaths have been reduced by 15 percent. Motor vehicle crashes are still a leading cause, but no longer the leading cause.

A major reason for the improvement? Twenty-five years ago, State Farm joined forces with the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the University of Pennsylvania to create Partners for Child Passenger Safety (PCPS) .

State Farm and CHOP identified more than 600,000 crashes involving 875,000 children under age 16. It was the largest source of data ever collected on children involved in motor vehicles crashes.

Women are nearly half of the U.S. workforce, but only 27% of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workers. By the time students reach college, women are significantly underrepresented in STEM majors – 21% of engineering majors, and 19% of computer and information science majors, are women.

“State Farm promotes IT [Information Technology] engagement with STEM in diverse populations as early as grade school and continues to engage with students through our State Farm Enterprise Technology Internship programs,” said Nancy Smith, State Farm Technology Analyst and STEM lead.

As for her own path to the STEM world, Nancy said, “Since I went into a male-dominated field, I was always intentional about connecting with other women to be inspired by their journeys. Also, being a lifelong learner led to my current role in Enterprise Technology as the STEM Engagement Coordinator to partner with school districts to build a future talent pipeline.”

Pretty Reji, State Farm Technology Director and lead in the Women & Technology (W&T) Employee Resource Group, credits State Farm culture for making progress in STEM career opportunities.

 
Pretty Reji  
State Farm Technology Director

She said, “The State Farm workplace is known for inclusiveness, opportunity, and personal development where everyone can thrive and do their best and grow personally and professionally. W&T can thrive in this environment as it helps bridge the gap by providing opportunities as a community to support women at State Farm as well as support the young girls in the community.”

There are many ways State Farm, and its external partners, are raising awareness of STEM for women.

Hundreds of State Farm employees volunteer at STEM events.

Technology Women in Leadership also plays an important role in STEM. The group models the importance of women in STEM through its leadership position. Members mentor, work in the schools, serve on the board of a variety of women’s organizations, and more.