Why Choose an Independent Agent?

Featured Agent Stories

Featured agent stories

Not only do independent insurance agents offers expert advice, guidance and peace of mind to their clients, but they also play an integral part in their communities. From sponsoring the local baseball team to helping with donations for the food bank, they are passionate about giving back.

Independent agents also aren't the type of people to give themselves a pat on the back for their accomplishments. That's why we want to share the stories of agents who are making a difference -- both inside and outside their agency.

Community Service Award
Ashley Winebrenner

For Ashley Winebrenner, making a difference for children with brain cancer has become a true calling in life. Winebrenner, an independent agent at Dwyer Insurance Agency in London, OH, started Rockin’ on the Run, an annual walk/run to raise awareness about the prevalence of childhood brain tumors and raise money for research. Because of her selfless efforts, Winebrenner is the recipient of OIA’s prestigious 2017 Community Service Award. READ MORE.

FEATURED AGENT STORY

Perk Reichley

Reichley Insurance established their agency on principles such as “reputation of honesty, high morals, integrity and friendly, professional customer service—pillars of a successful insurance agency." They work tirelessly to make sure they are not only meeting their clients’ expectations but exceeding them. These are the guidelines that P.A. “Perk” Reichley set for his business in 1946 and Dow “Perk” Reichley continues to exhibit three generations later. 

Pat Davis is a powerful example of the agency's dedication to "going above and beyond" for clients. Not only did Reichley Insurance help Pat through the insurance claims process, but Perk provided first-hand assistance through the restoration process. READ MORE.


FEATURED AGENT STORY

Matt Simon

It all starts in Bellefontaine, Ohio, where two family businesses come together to help people build their dreams.
Matt Simon is a Trusted Choice® Independent Insurance Agent. As a second-generation agent, his dedication to protecting others through insurance and risk management is evident in his work as he serves the community of Bellefontaine, Ohio.

Helping people bring their plans for the future to fruition—Alison Marker displays deep devotion to her community with every construction project taken on by her family business.

When Thomas and Marker Construction rebuilt a local ski lodge, Matt and his team at Hill & Hamilton were there to provide the necessary coverage the complex job required—and working together, they helped create a new building where members of the community will be making new memories for years to come. READ MORE.


Community Service Award
Chris D. Callen

For Chris Callen, president of Chris D. Callen Insurance Agent in Westerville, giving back to military families is a true calling. A Vietnam War veteran, Callen has personally walked in the shoes of those he helps with his nonprofit. 

The Callen Foundation provides short-term financial support to Ohio military families with urgent needs, such as food and basic living necessities, late bill payments, baby care items and emergency household repairs. Because of his work with the Foundation, Callen is the recipient of the 2016 Community Service Award. READ MORE.

Community Service Award
Stolly Insurance Group

With a history of giving back to the local community dating back to 1904, the family-owned Stolly Insurance Group received the OIA Community Service Award for its Operation Giveback and SUCCEED scholarship programs. “We have never lost our giving spirit, even five generations and 112 years after opening our doors,” says Peter Stolly, CIC, independent insurance agent at Stolly Insurance Group. READ MORE.

Community Service Award
Mark Hunter

Mark Hunter received the 2015 Community Service Award for the work he and his wife Virgie have done to battle childhood hunger in southern Ohio. "No one can fathom the time and energy Mark invests in helping the children," a friend said. READ MORE.

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