Our APL operations in Jackson, Mississippi, laid in Katrina’s
path, so immediately our thoughts turned to our fellow Colleagues
in need. They, in turn, sprung into action to keep operations going
after being closed for just one week. In addition to catching up on
the workload, Colleagues banded together to meet basic daily needs
from on-site daycare opportunities to bringing in gasoline to secure
transportation.
Those watching in disbelief at the home office and in the field called
upon American Fidelity to organize support efforts, a call we were
happy to answer. AFA teamed with Colleagues to raise funds for the
American Red Cross and matched contributions to raise over $37,000.
With our strong ties to the education community, it was only natural
to provide further aid through a school supply drive, computer donations
and additional fiscal donations to Mississippi schools, many of which
suffered damage or took in evacuees.
Our efforts
to improve the education community and the lives of young children
are ongoing. AFA made a strong investment in Smart Start Central
Oklahoma, an initiative focused on the health and developmental
needs of young children to ready them for success in school. Work
also began in 2005 to bring the Summit for the State National Board
Certified Teachers and their administrators to Oklahoma City, which
will take place in 2006.
Additionally, the company holds a monthly donation jeans day and
other opportunities to raise funds for such worthwhile organizations
as American Heart Association, Susan G. Komen Foundation and Infant
Crisis Services. Two major worksite campaigns are also held each
year to benefit the United Way and Allied Arts. American Fidelity
and our Colleagues take advantage of making a difference not because
we have to, but because we want to.
“Community investment is one of our core beliefs. It is the
right thing to do, and it is in our self interest to do our best
to ensure a community where all citizens have an opportunity to
prosper,” said AFA president John Rex, who dedicates much
of his efforts every day to helping raise awareness and support
for community programs.
American Fidelity also makes a point of sustaining a culture where
Colleagues know they play a special part in our success. As a result,
AFA was named to Fortune magazine’s list of the “100
Best Companies to Work For” in America for the third straight
year.
You need not look any further than the Heritage Center constructed
in 2005 to witness the contribution that people working for other
people can make. The motto emblazoned across the historical display
stands as a testament to all Colleagues’ contributions to
the company and reads, “Honor Yesterday, Excel Today and Thrive
Tomorrow.” It is our actions and our offerings that will remain
as a testament tomorrow. That is why we can never neglect the people
and the community that mold our existence today.
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