By Paul Nitz
Senior Underwriting Assistant, The Hartford
The Hartford has been a supporter of U.S. Paralympics since 1994. In a groundbreaking agreement in 2003, The Hartford became a founding partner of U.S. Paralympics, the first and only insurance carrier to pledge support to U.S. Paralympics and its 300 elite athletes. The Hartford felt that there was a strong connection with disability offerings and U.S. Paralympics, and thus created a partnership where the company’s support directly enhances U.S. Paralympic programs and supports the athletes.
The Hartford’s Achieve Without Limits campaign was launched last March to inspire Americans to achieve their own dreams and has brought awareness to the inspirational stories of U.S. Paralympic athletes. The campaign has also provided opportunities for consumers to engage with these elite athletes, be inspired by their stories, and understand what it means to achieve without limits.
In addition, since August 2011, The Hartford has hosted the Achieve Without Limits Contest, where people were invited to share their own goals. The top contestant in each of three categories received a cash award and a U.S. Paralympic athlete mentor to help put their plan into action. Since January, these finalists have reported back to The Hartford’s Facebook community on their progress via Facebook posts, videos, and pictures. The grand prize winner will be announced in early June and will receive a trip to the London 2012 Paralympic Games to cheer on Team USA.
U.S. Paralympic athletes embody the energy, confidence, and optimism at the very heart of achievement. U.S. Paralympians inspire everyone to break through limitations to achieve greatness. The Hartford plays a key role in helping these amazing athletes “Achieve Without Limits.”
