The Alexandria, Va.-based Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers ofAmerica's Young Agents Committee said it raised morethan $47,000 this year for InVEST, a financial literacy program thateducates high school and college students about insurance, riskmanagement and financial services.

The money was raised through a Roaring '20s-themed fundraisingevent in conjunction with the insurance organization's LegislativeConference and the annual InVEST silent and live auction.

“Young agents want to make a difference in the insuranceindustry and the InVEST Scholarship fund is an important part ofthe perpetuation solution,” says Boyd McGehee, the nationalchairman of Young Agents Committee and president of TalladegaInsurance in Talladega, Ala. “By hosting this fundraiser, we helpfuture independent agents, the next generation of (customer servicerepresentatives), producers and principals find a rewarding andexciting career in insurance.”

The Young Agents Committee raised $47,095 from the fundraisingevent, auction and direct contributions. Auction items were donatedby insurance carriers, agents and brokers, the IIABA and its stateaffiliates, and other industry organizations and supporters, thecommittee said.

“The continuing success of the InVEST program is critical to thefuture of the independent agency system and the insurance industryas a whole. We are grateful and inspired by the generosity anddedication of our young leaders,” said Robert Rusbuldt, IIABApresident and chief executive officer.

The InVEST program, which is based in Alexandria, Va., seeks toattract new talent to the insurance industry, and is currently inmore than 700 college and high schools across the country. Thenonprofit is supported by insurance organizations, agencies,brokers and volunteers.