One of the pillars of WCI is its chartable-giving initiatives. Give Kids The World and Kids Chance of Florida remain the focus of our philanthropic efforts, however due to the success of our annual conference WCI is expanding its giving to other charities who help those who are in need.
Helping Rebuild LA After the Wildfires
WCI has donated $10,000 to Habitat for Humanity Los Angeles. WCI’s Executive Director, Andrew Sabolic shared, “The wildfires destroyed thousands of homes and the impact on families and individuals who lost their homes is immeasurable. We are honored to play a small role in Habitat for Humanity’s rebuilding efforts.”
Pictured left to right are:
- Scotty Benton, VP Workers’ Compensation Practice, Sedgwick (representing WCI)
- Erin Rank, President & CEO, Habitat for Humanity LA
- Dr. Dinesa Thomas-Whitman, SVP of Programs & Government Relations, Habitat for Humanity LA
- Caryn Siebert, VP Carrier Engagement, Gallagher Bassett (representing WCI)
- Chris Untiet, Director of Community Relations, Habitat for Humanity LA
How Habitat LA is Making an Impact
Homeownership is the core of Habitat LA! They offer a hand-up, not a hand-out, to low-income families looking to buy a home. Homes are sold to qualifying families and financed with affordable homes loans in addition to the owners’ sweat equity of approximately 500 hours. Each year, Habitat LA also partners with low-income homeowners to provide critical health and safety repairs to the interior and exterior of their homes.
“This generous donation from Workers’ Compensation Institute comes at a critical time as we work to rebuild LA. One of our first projects will be to rebuild an Altadena home built by Habitat in 2023 and destroyed in the January 2025 fire. We have several ongoing fire related projects involved in the ReBUILD LA Wildfire Recovery Fund and appreciate the support and building bridges with organizations like WCI, Gallagher Bassett and Sedgwick” said Chris Untiet, Director of Community Relations.
Providing Comfort to Families in Need
In addition to funds from WCI, Gentle Bear (actually a dozen Gentle Bears) were donated by Gallagher Bassett. After explaining the origins of Gentle Bear and the significance of care and compassion and combatting PTSD, Mr. Untiet commented, “We will be passing the Gentle Bears out to children impacted by the fires at our wildfire relief distribution event in March. In a time of much anxiety and sadness we are sure their new snuggly and supportive friend will provide some hope and comfort.”
Coming Together to Support Recovery
VP in GBs Carrier Practice, multi-year speaker at WCI and volunteer with GKTW, Caryn Siebert commented, “seeing the joy on the faces of Chris, Erin and Dinese during today’s presentation reminds me of the importance of the work we are doing directly and through WCI. Caring about our communities and supporting efforts in restoring people’s sense of normalcy is part of why I love #lifeatgallagher.”
Sedgwick’s VP of workers’ compensation practice, Scotty Benton stated, “it was great being able to share in furthering the mission of Chris and his team. The passion they show for the work they do in supporting the community and truly making a difference in their lives is amazing. It was a pleasure to be a small part of such an event. They truly exhibit Sedgwick’s philosophy of Caring Counts.”