“Pride” is a word that is against my heritage and culture as a Chinese, and some may say it does not exist in the dictionary of the insurance industry (a.k.a. best-kept secret). But today I want to shout out my Texas-size pride! I am so proud of being part of the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF), so proud of my fellow IICF Southeast Divisional Board members, so proud of the insurance community in Texas, and so proud of being in the insurance profession!

On Feb. 1, more than 600 industry leaders joined us in Dallas and celebrated the 6th Annual IICF Southeast Benefit Dinner, where we honored Tom Curtin of CRC Group, one of the most respected, most admired and most giving leaders in the insurance industry. For more than 30 years, Tom’s charitable efforts have impacted many local, state and national organizations, leaving a legacy of caring and giving to which we all aspire!

Inspired by Tom’s generous matching and our keynote speaker, the legendary Dallas Cowboys Coach Jimmy Johnson, our Text-to-Give drive raised an additional $90,000. When added to the $803,000 from the dinner fundraiser, IICF’s efforts reached nearly $900,000, made possible through the generosity of insurance industry companies, professionals and supporters.

Where the money goes

This collective industry effort will support 23 nonprofit organizations throughout the region, focused in the areas of at-risk children, veterans and education, with beneficiaries including Sons of the Flag, Soldier’s Angels, Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, Make-A-Wish North Texas, Our Friends Place, Con Mi Madre and many more.