To better prepare to meet disaster assistance needs in 2008 andbeyond, the charitable foundation for Independent Insurance Agents& Brokers of America Inc. has created the Trusted ChoiceDisaster Relief Fund.

The Alexandria, Va.-based association said it will make thefirst contribution to the fund.

The Trusted Choice Disaster Relief Fund was established by theIIABA Educational Foundation of the IIABA to assist others who havesuffered losses due to natural or man-made disasters. Allcontributions are tax deductible.

“By establishing a permanent relief fund, we will be ready tofinancially assist victims when and where a disaster strikes,rather than raising the funds after the fact, as we did for 9-11and Hurricane Katrina,” said Bob Rusbuldt, president and chiefexecutive officer of the IIABA. “This fund is a great way to showour ongoing support as an industry for victims of disasters.”

The fund will make cash grants to those in the insuranceindustry, including IIABA members and their agency staffs, andothers to pay for immediate or ongoing financial needs when otherfunds, such as insurance and other grants, are not immediatelyavailable. The fund can also provide insurance agents with suppliesand resources to assist with disaster relief efforts to aid victimsand surviving family members in their communities.

Contributions can be made payable to the “Trusted ChoiceDisaster Relief Fund” and mailed to Lillian Carter, Trusted ChoiceDisaster Relief Fund, 127 S. Peyton St., Alexandria, VA 22314.Contributors can also call Ms. Carter at 800-221-7917, extension5372.

More information is available at www.independentagent.com.