Let’s explain.

Dave is a life-long resident of Pequannock Township, New Jersey.

“It’s the kind of small town where everybody knows everybody else,” Dave said. “People look out for each other here.”

Among the many friends he’s made over the years are Gayle and George Douglas and their five children.

“Gayle’s brother was my best friend growing up. I feel like I’ve been a part of that family my whole life,” he explained.

The youngest member of the Douglas family is Colby, a 21-year-old man with Down syndrome. Colby contracted COVID-19 and was admitted to the hospital on April 2. He’d stay for the next 135 days. From the moment he was admitted, Colby’s situation was precarious. He spent the first 70 days on a ventilator. When he finally regained a bit of strength, doctors performed a tracheotomy. Then, slowly but surely, Colby started to heal.

Dave kept up with Colby’s situation, checking in on him and the family often. Dave had also recently been hospitalized with COVID.

“I was only in for three days and I was begging to come home,” Dave recalled. “I can’t imagine what he was going through in there.”

When Dave learned Colby was able to come home, he was overjoyed. He also got an idea.

“Him coming home after all this time was a big deal,” Dave said. “So I figured, ‘Why not try and do something special?'”

Everybody Loves a Parade

In addition to being a claims specialist, Dave’s also a member of the Town Council. When he found out Colby would be coming home on August 13, he made a few calls.

“One thing led to another and the next thing you know, we had quite a thing going,” Dave said.

The “thing” Dave got going was nothing less than a full-blown parade, complete with police car escorts, ambulances, limousines, and fire trucks flashing their lights. And, a crowd of close to 2,000 well-wishers lined the streets to welcome Colby home.

Local TV covered it, and Colby’s story went nation-wide via a TODAY Show interview.

“It was really a great day for the town and for Colby and his family,” Dave said.

That Dave orchestrated such a tremendous outpouring of generosity wasn’t surprising to those who know him.

“That’s pretty much the kind of guy he is,” said his manager, Roger Stites. “He’s always showing that Good Neighbor attitude in everything he does.”

Dave credits State Farm for supporting employees’ charitable efforts. And, he is particularly grateful for the way the company deals with employees impacted by COVID.

When he got out of the hospital, he was out of commission for about 15 days. He was then placed on paid administrative leave while he recuperated. A gesture Dave appreciated greatly.

“State Farm didn’t have to do that, but they did,” Dave said. “That’s the kind of place this is.”

The Kind of Place This Is

State Farm is “the kind of place” where helping others - being a Good Neighbor - is important. It’s recognized and rewarded.

“Here at State Farm we encourage our employees to carry the Good Neighbor Spirit out into their communities as part of our 100 for Good initiative. Dave and his work in the community, and with this parade, is a great example of how employees use that benefit to contribute and make a difference,” said Senior Vice President Annette Martinez. “We could not be prouder.”

Dave has recorded 100 Acts of Good. That earned him an extra paid day to volunteer. Not surprisingly, Dave used that extra day to volunteer at Colby’s parade.

“Current State Farm driving data and claims experience show a considerable decline in miles driven and fewer accidents,” said Joe Spicer, Vice President - Agency/Sales. “As a result, we’re looking for ways to continue supporting our New Jersey customers while we monitor and adjust to trends.”

In addition to the auto rate reduction, the discount for participating in Drive Safe & Save™ is increasing to 10%, and empowers drivers to save more on their auto premiums through driving behaviors.

Customer rate reductions will vary based on their individual renewals. Customers are encouraged to visit with their State Farm agent about individual policies, coverage and any opportunities for discounts, including Drive Safe & Save.

She was traveling to New Jersey from her home in New York when she ran out of gas on the highway. Jasmine, who was with her 9-year-old son, was forced to pull over and park on the side of the road.

“Trucks were speeding past us, so I had my son get out of the car and sit down on the side of road,” she said.

Jasmine feared for their safety, as there was a small curve blocking the view of traffic coming from the highway.

“God forbid if someone didn’t see us and smashed into my car.”

Jasmine was shaken up. She had no cell phone, was unfamiliar with the area and didn’t know what she was going to do next.

That’s when Kevin showed up.

Kevin is a driver who works for the New Jersey Department of Transportation. He’s part of a program State Farm^® sponsors called the Safety Patrol. To keep drivers safe on highways across the country, State Farm partners with New Jersey and other select state departments of transportation to patrol public highways to provide limited roadside assistance for motorists. This assistance includes services like tire changes, fixing minor mechanical problems, removing debris from the road and fortunately for Jasmine and her son, providing gas when folks run out.

Within about 10 minutes of being stranded on the side of the road, the State Farm Safety Patrol truck pulled up to Jasmine’s car. It didn’t matter that Jasmine wasn’t a State Farm customer; Kevin was there to help.

“He immediately made a joke about putting my face mask on before we interacted, which actually made me laugh and relieved my nerves. He asked what was wrong and told me everything was going to be fine,” said Jasmine.

“He told a few more jokes (he could tell I was nervous) before he pulled the small can of gasoline out the side of the truck and gave me a gallon, enough to get to the nearest gas station.”

Being there when it counts

The Safety Patrols are a great example of the Good Neighbor service philosophy that State Farm is known for. The Patrols help protect lives and property and demonstrate the commitment State Farm has to keeping motorists safe and helping people recover from the unexpected.

The program is close to a decade old, during which time the Patrols have helped countless motorists, regardless of whether or not they are State Farm customers.  

“State Farm feels strongly about keeping all passengers safe," said Joe Spicer, Vice President Agency-Sales, “from the infant car seat to the driver’s seat.”

Jasmine’s experience with Kevin and the State Farm Safety Patrol was a positive one, and she was deeply thankful for the assistance.

“I asked if I could give him money for the gas he used to fill up my car or offer a tip. He refused. He said ‘that's my job.’ What an angel!"

Kevin wasn’t the only one who made a good impression that day, according to Jasmine.

 “I just might switch my car and life insurance to State Farm based on this experience," she said. “To come to someone's rescue during a time of need is a memorable moment. Your logo and branding will forever be associated by this pleasant experience. Good job!”

• Learn more about the Safety Patrol.
• Have your own Safety Patrol story to tell? Let us know!
• Check this collection of safe driving tips from Simple Insights^®

State Farm sponsored assist patrols in 18 states help keep the nation’s highest-trafficked roadways safe and clear. They reduce congestion, help stranded motorists, and provide traffic control and safety at incident scenes.

Safety patrols are operated by state departments of transportation and toll road authorities. They are known by a variety of names in 40 states. Their free services include changing flat tires, providing a jump-start or small amount of gasoline, and minor safety repairs.

“The safety patrols embody our ‘good neighbor’ philosophy and underscore our commitment to auto safety,” said Ed Gold, advertising director. “They help people recover from the unexpected, which is the heart of the State Farm mission.”

State Farm sponsorship helps increase coverage areas and raises awareness about the patrols. This helps the motoring public feel more secure when traveling the nation’s interstate system. Sponsored highway signs mark coverage areas. The bright red State Farm reflective markings also improve patrol vehicle visibility.

State Farm sponsors the safety patrols in Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

State Farm has been committed to roadway safety since its founding in 1922. The company seeks to increase the safety of all drivers and passengers from infancy to the driver’s seat.

*Safety Service Patrol Priorities and Best Practices: USDOT Federal Highway Federal Highway Administration, April 2017

“The company’s current financial strength is allowing us to pass along a rate reduction to our New Jersey customers," said State Farm Senior Vice President Chris Schell. “We continually evaluate how we can best serve our customers and are very pleased to be able to offer this rate decrease in New Jersey.”

Overall changes in premiums for individual motorists will vary depending on the specific details of an individual customer’s policy and chosen coverages. The effective date for new and renewal business is July 16, 2018. New Jersey customers with questions can contact their local State Farm agent to discuss their individual situation.

In addition to this rate reduction, State Farm agents are able to review with new and existing customers the many opportunities for additional discounts that may apply to an individual’s unique circumstances. A rate decrease combined with discounts offers an exceptional long-term value to State Farm customers.

First, let’s rewind:

Paterson, New Jersey, located 15 miles from Manhattan has a deep industrial history. In the late 1700’s it received funding from an investment group created by Alexander Hamilton, which helped launch its manufacturing base. Shortly after, Paterson became an economic powerhouse – producing products like railroad locomotives, textile machinery, cotton and silk. By the late 1800’s, it was dubbed the “Silk City” due to its high production of the elegant fabric.

Changing times:

A century later, life in Paterson took a drastic turn. Economic changes and declines in manufacturing led to layoffs and limited opportunities. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) ranked Paterson as the most economically distressed city in America.

While jobs, the economy and opportunities have changed…today, a part of Paterson remains the same. In fact, some say it’s become more beautiful over time…

The Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

“There’s natural beauty right here in Paterson, said high school senior Jeferson Mendoza. “It gives us something to be proud of.” Mendoza is one of 19 students from the John F. Kennedy STEM Academy working to promote and preserve this national park. With the help of a $96,233.63 grant from State Farm, Jeferson and his peers have been working with the Hamilton Partnership for Paterson to create a free smartphone app encouraging people to visit the area. Known as the Mill Mile audio tour app, it guides participants through a 13-stop walking tour of the grounds. As users explore historical sites, the app shares fun facts, park trivia and includes a quiz to test their Paterson history knowledge. There’s even a virtual tour option for those who can’t visit the park in person.

“This project was all about the students,” said Hamilton Partnership for Paterson Program Director, Robin Gold. “They worked hard to make the tour more appealing to young people.” “We put in countless hours of planning meetings, researching, budgeting, writing content, and more,” added Jeferson. “Some of the work was tedious, but I learned so much. I’m confident this project will have a positive impact on Paterson, which is exciting.”

"Prior to the Mill Mile audio tour app, I had only been to the falls a handful of times. Now I visit more often and I encourage everyone to do the same,” said Jeferson. “Believe it or not, the photos don’t do it justice!”

Word of the Great Falls is spreading. In 2016, the national historical park set a record of more than 177,000 visitors.

“This area is special and the park is a soothing environment,” said Jeferson. It serves as a beacon of hope.”

For five nights, every two weeks, the Imagine facility is abuzz with families gathered together. From the light-hearted activities and atmosphere, the casual observer might not guess Imagine’s mission is to support families dealing with grief.

The New Jersey-based center’s Night of Support (NOS) program offers education and peer support to adults and children coping with the loss of a loved one. NOS is a free service, thanks in part to support from State Farm. Participants become more resilient and learn healthy ways to cope with difficult, painful feelings.

“We provide supper for families on all Nights of Support. They can be together, transition from their day, and have an evening where they don’t have to worry about getting dinner on the table,” says Imagine Executive Director Mary Robinson.

“There is an opening circle and a closing circle at each meeting. It reinforces to participants that they are not alone in their grief. This consistent ritual is an important part of the healing process,” continues Mary. 

During the meeting, there are support group activities. Younger children choose from activities like arts and crafts, making music, or physical play and expression in the Volcano Room. They can also write, draw and talk with their peers and the volunteer facilitators. The older teens and parents spend time in their support group circle and talking.

“The key to adapting after a loss is expressing feelings of grief, whether in talk, play, art or other medium,” Mary says.

Claude Harmon is a NOS participant. His wife Kerry passed away in 2014. He attends Imagine with two of his three daughters, 13 year-old Nyah and 10 year-old Skai. Here is his story…

Es tiempo de regresar a la escuela. Una época emocionante para los pequeñines a medida que adquieren independencia, hacen nuevas amistades y aprenden. Pero puede ser estresante para los padres.

¿Estará seguro mi hijo en el autobús escolar? ¿Sabrá qué hacer cuando se le acerque un extraño? ¿Sabe qué hacer en caso de emergencia?

Estas son sólo algunas de las preguntas que se hacen muchos padres.

La Vernon Police Athletic League (PAL) de New Jersey, con el apoyo de State Farm, ayuda a contestar estas preguntas. Cada agosto, los estudiantes que entran a kindergarten participan, una semana, en el Safety Town de PAL.

Bajo el programa, profesionales tales como los oficiales de policía, los coordinadores de prevención de lesiones, los maestros de escuela y los agentes de State Farm conducen sesiones educativas para niños de cuatro y cinco años. Los temas incluyen bicicleta, autobús, incendio, agua y seguridad relacionada con la electricidad así como educación financiera.

“Yo creía que sería aburrido hablar de dinero, pero fue realmente interesante”, dijo Bella, una pequeña de cinco años, acerca de la presentación sobre educación financiera del agente de State Farm Tom Ziegenbalg.

Vivian and her family immigrated to New Jersey from the Dominican Republic when she was young. In her freshman year of high school, she was still learning English.

Vivian was shy, scared and dealing with culture shock. Now in 11^th grade, Vivian is on track to become the first in her family to graduate college.

In the beginning of his senior year, Israel was preoccupied with academics and other responsibilities. As a result, he delayed applying to colleges. Fast forward, now he’s heading off to Rutgers University with a scholarship, covering his room and board.

Vivian, Israel, and many other Newark, New Jersey students, take advantage of the resources at the College Success Centers. As a result, hundreds of high school students who may not have considered college now have valuable opportunities.

In a city with overcrowded classrooms and inadequate school supplies, Abbott Leadership Institute (ALI) is helping Newark’s students gain equal ground.

“There’s been a pretty extensive gap between high school and college here,” says Kimberly Ledgister, College Success Center Program Coordinator. “Many students didn’t consider college after high school and others simply didn’t know how to apply or afford tuition.”

College Success Centers (CSCs) are the brainchild of the very students frustrated with their lack of resources. CSCs are a program under the Abbott Leadership Institute Youth Media Symposium.

“We knew what we needed and fought hard for it,” says Israel. “A group of us would meet and discuss ideas. We would have notes on yellow papers all over the room.”

Their next challenge was to find funding to create the program.

Fortunately, the students heard about the State Farm Youth Advisory Board grant program. They applied and received two grants, two years in a row, totaling more than $171,000.

In just two years, ALI created five permanent College Success Centers – all run by students - and three pop-up sites located in schools throughout the city. Approximately 250 students have already used the services which are:

• learn more about the college application process,

• learn skills for successful adaptation to college life,

• tutoring and SAT preparation,

• college tours, resume building, and

• Internship and career exploration.

“I started very late applying to college,” explains Israel. “It was stressful. I came to the Center and got help in filling out applications. I also learned of Rutgers University’s Honors Living Learning Community, which is a program for students with a passion for social justice and advocacy. The site coordinator kept pushing me to apply and I finally submitted my application the day before the deadline.”

Vivian’s school counselor encouraged her to be more sociable and to further her education.

“At first, I would avoid her because I lacked confidence,” Vivian explains. I was lost, but eventually came to the Center. Because I have no home computer, being able to do research there was especially helpful.”

“Before coming to the Center, I visited two college campuses,” continues Vivian. “Now I’ve been to many and had the opportunity to see colleges outside of just this area. It’s great to see what choices are out there.”

Vivian has gone from being withdrawn to being an advocate. She encourages her younger cousins and other students to do their homework, succeed in school, and attend college tours. She also speaks to audiences during ALI events about her experience and has found a passion in photography.

The Youth Media Symposium success stories don’t end here. There’s Shayla who was nearly expelled from high school and, after getting involved with the Centers, now attends college tours and turned a failing grade to a “B.”

There’s also Joshua. YMS staff worked for a year on bringing a College Success Center to his high school. Joshua stepped in, advocated for the new location, arranged a presentation at the school, and the contract was complete a week later.

“Our students are the backbone of this program and the future of our country,” say Kimberly. “College readiness is crucial to that future.”

August 4, 2015 will go down in New Jersey history as a bittersweet day because of the Badlani family’s tireless efforts after a tragic loss. On that beautiful, sunny morning, Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno signed Nikhil’s Law.

In 2011, Sunil Badlani and his 11 year old son, Nikhil, were traveling in their van in South Orange. As they approached an intersection just two miles from the family’s home, a distracted driver ran a stop sign. The driver’s car crashed into the Badlani’s van, causing the van to roll over and be hit again by an oncoming car.

Sunil was treated for injuries. Tragically, Nikhil was killed.

“We have a void in our hearts,” said Sangeeta, Nikhil’s mother. “We are still a family, but will be forever changed.”

Shortly after Nikhil’s funeral, Sunil and Sangeeta began the Nikhil Badlani Foundation (NBF). NBF’s mission is to raise traffic safety awareness and help prevent car crashes from devastating other families.

Nikhil’s Law requires the Motor Vehicle Commission to include an additional question on the driver’s license examination. Applicants will be asked if they are aware of the dangers of failing to follow New Jersey’s motor vehicle traffic laws.

Additionally, drivers are given the option to take the “STOP for Nikhil Safety Pledge.” This affirms the applicant’s commitment to traffic safety and the safety of others.

The principles of the pledge are to:

• obey traffic laws,
• come to a complete stop at stop signs and red traffic lights,
• stay alert
• talk safe (to use a hands-free cell phone system while driving, and not text or use a handset unless pulled over)
• plan ahead before driving. (give yourself an extra five minutes to get to any destination)

Before being signed, the bill passed both chambers unanimously.

“To lose a loved one due to the negligence of someone else’s action is devastating,” said Sangeeta. “We continue to grieve for Nikhil. Think of families like us when you fail to obey traffic laws.”

During the bill signing, Guadagno shared some staggering statistics. In 2014, there were 265,000 car crashes, nearly 76,000 traffic injuries and 556 deaths on New Jersey roadways.

“I wish I didn’t have to be here today, but the statistics are unacceptable,” said Guadagno. “They (the Badlani family) opened a wound to save other people. Their son is not simply statistic. Every child, including my own, will take the pledge.”

Family members and friends shared beautiful memories of Nikhil with the crowd on August 4.

“I’m sure Nikhil is smiling down on us right now and is happy to see the progress,” said an emotional Sunil. “But something tells me he’d rather be here witnessing this bill being signed with us, without his name on it.”

To engage young people further, NBF offers their Traffic Safety Artwork project, allowing students to create artwork with traffic safety awareness messages. The program, funded by State Farm, encourages young people to be creative while sharing an important message with their communities.

Students translate their ideas into sketches, which are then transformed into colorful murals with the help of local artist, Cindy Klein.

The artwork is displayed at the school or a public place, such as the town library or shopping plaza. Public service announcements using the artwork are also displayed on NJ Transit buses, light rail and train stations throughout Essex County.

Additionally, NBF’s Music for Nikhil program, inspired by Nikhil’s love of music, provides free music lessons to need-based, musically talented West Orange students.

NBF also created the Nikhil Badlani Scholarship Fund, which gives scholarships to West Orange High School seniors who demonstrate academic achievement, good character, artistic ability, and community involvement.

“Nikhil spoke very passionately about how some drivers did not respect the rules of the road,” said Sunil. “His loss cannot be in vain and should be an awakening to all drivers on the road.”

To read the December 2014 story about the Badlani family, click here.

He was That Guy whose life was envied by many.

Unfortunately, Matt is now That Guy who killed a father of six in a drunk driving crash.

The Accident

On March 1, 2009, a few months after joining the Philadelphia Kixx, Matt sustained a career-ending knee injury. A week later, feeling discouraged about his situation. Matt went out drinking with a friend. On his way home, Matt was speeding down the Atlantic City Expressway and crashed into the vehicle of Hort Kap, killing him instantly.

Matt didn’t receive the news he killed Kap until he was in police custody. As he sat in the holding cell, contemplating the consequences of a DUI charge, he overheard the dispatcher describing Kap as “deceased.” In an instant, Matt’s world came crashing down.

“I couldn’t comprehend the weight and I had a sickening feeling in the pit of my stomach trying to understand the full magnitude of the word ‘deceased’– and that my actions caused it,” described Matt. “It was total mind confusion.”

As Matt was awaiting his sentencing, the Bible Club counselor at Middle Township High School approached Matt’s mother. He asked if Matt would be interested in speaking with students at the school.

“My mom left the decision up to me and I told her after much thought and prayer that I always stood up during all the good in my life; and that I should stand up now during the bad and take ownership of my bad decision,” says Matt.

Prior to sentencing, Matt partnered with the South Jersey Traffic Safety Alliance (SJTSA) and was able to make 34 “I’m That Guy” presentations to more than 7,000 students in high schools and colleges throughout South Jersey. His goal was to spare someone else from following in his footsteps, and the process was cathartic.

Matt was charged with aggravated manslaughter and sentenced to five years, five months in prison.

“I never thought I’d be in an ugly environment like prison, but instead of fighting my circumstances, I decided to accept them and become intentional in making the best of them,” explains Matt.

While in prison, Matt focused on positive activities and encouraged others to do the same. He started a Bible study group, tutored fellow inmates in English, and wrote 15 books. He also kept a daily blog to chronicle his life in prison.

Taking Advantage of Second Chances

Matt was released from prison on August 3, 2014. He quickly partnered with SJTSA again who, through the support of a State Farm grant, committed to hosting a series of presentations to high school and college students throughout New Jersey and neighboring states. Matt was the keynote speaker.

Matt’s first presentation since his release was to Cumberland County College, where students were gripped by Matt’s raw and honest story. He doesn’t sugar-coat his actions, feelings, or the crash, and humbly requests young people do not follow in his footsteps.

“The variety of ways the kids connect with Matt is powerful and continues to be evident through the following of his website and the blog he wrote from prison,” says SJTSA Program Manager Teresa Thomas.

In addition to sharing his message with thousands of students, Matt has other plans for his future. With the help of his mother, Matt created the Be Still Foundation. His foundation advocates responsible decision-making, the prevention of risky behavior, and provides strategies for overcoming adversity.