California

State Farm Walks Like MADD

“For close to 90 years State Farm has helped protect our policyholders from the risks they face in their everyday lives and helped them recover from the unexpected. With over 66,000 employees and nearly 18,000 agents nationwide, we work every single day to fulfill that mission.”

Those are the words of State Farm Agent Cynthia Blumgart as she addressed attendees during the opening ceremony of Walk Like MADD.

State Farm is the National Presenting Sponsor of Walk Like MADD events around the country this year. The local event for the Bay Area was held on Saturday, May 14 at Cesar Chavez Park in Berkeley, California. It drew about 200 people in attendance and raised over $46,000.

A number of victim families spoke about what MADD and the event meant to them. Some remembered their loved ones. During the opening ceremonies each group walking in memory of someone in particular said their loved ones name out loud, one by one.

In the cold and grey of the morning, knowing how much love and support there was among the participants; loudly calling the names of those who have lost their lives in drunk driving accidents was a stirring and emotional moment. It was an emotional reminder there are real people at the heart of this tragedy and families have been challenged in their devastation to remember, heal, and try and move on.

The State Farm team at the event was comprised of several local agents and associates that came out to walk the 5k course in support of MADD’s mission. Assemblywoman Nancy Skinner also helped kick off the walk by making some remarks during the opening ceremony.

Eliminating drunk driving is an important community issue and one that State Farm stands behind as the largest insurance company in America.

Public Affairs Specialist Sevag Sarkissian said, “It was so moving to be with people who have been affected by drunk driving. It was a chance to remember, walk in solidarity with one another, and renew one’s commitment to eliminate drunk driving. I am proud that State Farm is bringing this special event to communities across America.”