FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 15, 2002

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Jennifer May, PIIAI Industry Affairs Coordinator
(217) 793-6660 or jmay@piiai.org

Steve Ritchie Honored for Outstanding Community Service

(Springfield, IL) The Professional Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois honored Steve Ritchie, of Steve Ritchie and Associates in Rolling Meadows, for outstanding community service during the association's annual convention in Springfield.

Ritchie was recognized for his work with Children's Oncology Services of Illinois, Inc. (COSI). Ritchie joined the Board of Directors and provided insurance consulting for the organization. In addition to the consulting work, Ritchie hosted the first COSI golf outing three years ago. Swingin' for the Kids raised $40,000 in the first two years of the outing.

Children's Oncology Services of Illinois, Inc., is a not for profit organization that operates programs for children with cancer and leukemia. One Step at a Time summer camp is the organization's primary program. Volunteers operate the camp and provide support for children with cancer and their families.

Started in 1978, the camp is held for two weeks each year at Aurora University, George William Lake Geneva Campus. Any child who is being treated for cancer or leukemia in Illinois, Wisconsin, or Northern Indiana may attend. Nearly 225 children attend camp each summer with a medical counselor and administrative staff of nearly 150 volunteers.

The summer camp program costs nearly $600.00 per child each week, but families are only asked to pay $100.00 per week, if they are financially capable of doing so. The money raised by volunteers has provided an enjoyable summer camp experience for many children who would not have the opportunity otherwise.

The Professional Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois is an association representing independent insurance agents throughout the state. PIIAI membership is comprised of 1,500 insurance agencies representing 12,000 licensed independent agents engaged in all facets of the insurance industry, including property, casualty, life and health. Its members are businesses that offer customers a choice of policies from a variety of insurance companies. In addition to serving the professional needs of members, PIIAI works for the betterment of the insurance industry through legislative and consumer awareness programs. The PIIAI is headquartered in Springfield, Illinois. Visit PIIAI's consumer website at www.ChooseIndependent.com or agent website at www.piiai.org.
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