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Social Responsibility: Allstate Showcased at White House Summit on Financial Capability and Empowerment

Thu, 10 May 2012 12:57:00 -0500

$1 million in grants to support financial empowerment for domestic violence survivors and commitment to employee financial wellbeing announced at summit
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate Insurance Company and The Allstate Foundation announced several financial empowerment program commitments today as part of a summit hosted by the President's Council for Financial Capability. The announcements are a part of Allstate's ongoing efforts to help all Americans improve their overall financial wellbeing. One of the commitments, through The Allstate Foundation's Moving Ahead Financial Empowerment Grant Program, will provide $1 million to offer financial education and training for domestic violence survivors.

"Since 2005, The Allstate Foundation has helped break the cycle of domestic violence by providing survivors with the financial knowledge and resources they need to leave abusive relationships. Research consistently shows the number one predictor of whether a person will leave a violent relationship is having the financial resources to live independently," stated Victoria Dinges, vice president for public social responsibility at Allstate. "We are one of the only corporations helping survivors move from safety to long-term security through financial empowerment."

The grants will be awarded on a competitive basis to state domestic violence coalitions. Funding will be used to provide survivors with the Foundation's comprehensive Moving Ahead through Financial Management curriculum, as well as other innovative programming in job training, matched savings, individual development accounts, micro-loans, microenterprise training and asset building strategies. The funding will help The Allstate Foundation reach its goal to provide 500,000 domestic violence survivors with financial empowerment services by 2015.

Also at the summit, Allstate renewed its commitment to further expand financial wellbeing as a part of an employee wellness program. The program, available to all Allstate employees, provides a variety of ways employees can invest in their financial future, including: tools for pursuing financial wellbeing, such as access to an online personal finance center, free phone consultations with a certified financial planner or referrals to credit counseling services; financial literacy education, including live seminars and webinars; and mechanisms to protect employee financial wellbeing, such as automatic enrollment in the 401(k) plan.

"At Allstate, we believe that wellbeing is a journey that encompasses not just physical wellbeing, but financial health," stated Catherine Winn, vice president human resources at Allstate. "We believe that by addressing the physical, emotional, and fiscal needs of our employees they will be happier and more productive while at work and at home."

New to the program this year was the addition of a variety of financial literacy seminars and free learning opportunities for employees on topics such as budgeting and using credit wisely, financial planning, home mortgages, saving for college, retirement readiness, and protecting yourself and your loved ones. Allstate recently updated its 401(k) plan to include automatic enrollment for new hires and created targeted marketing efforts to actively engage employees not participating in the plan. Through the plan, employees now have access to target retirement date funds, free online advice and professional management services.

"Giving people the right tools to make the right financial decisions not only helps them succeed, it helps America succeed." said Dinges. "The financial strength of our nation depends on the fiscal fitness of every citizen."

To learn more about The Allstate Foundation's Moving Ahead Financial Empowerment Grant Program and efforts to empower domestic violence survivors visit www.AllstateFoundation.org.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer, serving approximately 16 million households through its Allstate, Encompass, Esurance and Answer Financial brand names. Widely known by its slogan "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®," Allstate offers insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

Contact:

Kyle Donash
847-402-5600
Kyle.donash@allstate.com

Social Responsibility: TV Star Victoria Justice Encourages Teens to 'Act Out Loud' and Help Save Lives During May's National Youth Traffic Safety Month

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 07:00:00 -0500

The Allstate Foundation and National Organizations for Youth Safety Challenge Teens to Engage Their Social Networks and Generate Support for Stronger Teen Driving Laws
This release contains: 1 Video, 1 Photo, 3 Related Documents

Car crashes are the no. 1 cause of teen deaths and the fast-approaching summer months prove to be the deadliest. In advance of National Youth Traffic Safety Month® in May, The Allstate Foundation and National Organizations for Youth Safety® (NOYS) are partnering with TV star and singer Victoria Justice to encourage young adults to Act Out Loud® for stronger teen driving laws. Justice asks teens to visit Facebook.com/ActOutLoud to create an Act Out Loud Yearbook from now until May 6.

"On average, 11 teens die every day in car crashes - and that's far too many," said Justice. "As a teen myself, I want to make sure my friends and I come home safely each and every day. Through Act Out Loud, we can work together to make an impact and help stop this deadly epidemic."

By creating an Act Out Loud Yearbook, teens share a message that they intend to drive safe, and hope their friends do the same to ensure they continue creating memories for years to come. In addition, they have the opportunity to do more by writing Congress and voicing their support for stronger teen driving laws. Research shows that stronger teen driving laws can save about 2,000 lives each year.¹

"According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, younger, inexperienced drivers under 20 years old have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes," said Sandy Spavone, executive director, NOYS. "The Act Out Loud program gives teens the tools to effectively spread the safe driving message among their peers in an effort to help save lives."

The Act Out Loud Yearbook gives teens a voice on an issue that impacts them every single day. To recognize teens' activism and sharing through their networks, every teen that makes an Act Out Loud Yearbook, along with their 10 featured friends, will be entered for a chance to win $1,000 each.

"Teen driving deaths are a real public health crisis," said Vicky Dinges, vice president of public social responsibility at Allstate. "What's worse is that these deaths are preventable. We can take very simple, common sense steps that will protect young drivers across the country. It is our hope that through Act Out Loud, we are ensuring that no teen has to deal with the loss of a friend or a loved one because of a car crash."

In its fifth year, Act Out Loud is a national, school-based competition that enlists teens to raise local awareness about the importance of stronger teen driver safety laws. In states that have strong graduated driver licensing laws (GDL), teen crash fatalities decrease by up to 40 percent. Since the program started, hundreds of thousands of teens have been encouraged to Act Out Loud and help their friends and family drive safely.

The winners of the Act Out Loud Facebook contest will be announced in May 2012 as part of National Youth Traffic Safety Month (NYTSM).

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¹The Allstate Foundation License to Save Report

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people's well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.AllstateFoundation.org.

About National Organizations for Youth Safety
National Organizations for Youth Safety® (NOYS) is a coalition of national organizations, business and industry leaders, as well as federal agencies who serve youth and focus on youth safety and health. Through the coalition, NOYS influences more than 80 million young people and their adult advisors. The mission of NOYS is to promote youth empowerment and leadership, and build partnerships that save lives, prevent injuries, and enhance safe and healthy lifestyles among all youth.

Social Responsibility: New National Survey Shows Nearly Forty Percent Drop In Teen Confidence About Their Financial Futures

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 03:45:00 -0500

Junior Achievement USA® and The Allstate Foundation survey also indicates a dramatic shift in the age teens think they'll be financially independent
This release contains: 1 Photo, 3 Related Documents

A new study from Junior Achievement USA and The Allstate Foundation revealed that only 56 percent of teens 14-18 years old think they will be as financially well-off or better than their parents. That represents a 37 percent drop from 2011 (89 percent).

The 2012 Junior Achievement Teens and Personal Finance survey also uncovered a dramatic shift in the age teens think they will be financially independent from their parents or guardians. Less than half of teens who responded indicated they'd be independent by age 20 versus a year ago (18 percent in 2012 versus 44 percent in 2011). The number of teens who said they would be independent by ages 25–27 doubled from last year (23 percent in 2012 versus 12 percent in 2011).

Jack E. Kosakowski, president and chief executive officer of Junior Achievement USA, said, "Despite recent reports that this will be the first generation in a century that is unlikely to end up better off financially than its parents, our young people have the opportunity to shape their own futures, as long as they have the skills, knowledge and confidence to do so. Every parent's dream is for their children to be more successful than they are. So, Junior Achievement, with the collaboration of key partners like The Allstate Foundation, will continue to expand young people's access to the tools they need to succeed in the global economy, including critical money-management skills."

Since 2005, Junior Achievement and The Allstate Foundation have partnered to help students take the valuable information learned about personal finance in the classroom and apply it in their lives after graduation. The Junior Achievement JA Economics for Success® program, created in partnership with The Allstate Foundation, has helped more than 1.2 million students set personal goals about money and make wise financial choices. The program also helps empower students to develop, plan, and set goals to help protect them from unexpected financial pitfalls.

"While it is disheartening to see a 37-percent decline in the number of teens who feel they will able to see the same financial success as their parents, it is encouraging to know that programs like Junior Achievement exist to provide teens with tools to propel their financial futures to great heights," said Donald Civgin, president and chief executive officer, Allstate Financial. "The Allstate Foundation has a long standing partnership with Junior Achievement to provide exactly these types of tools and empower teens with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their financial futures."

Other key findings from the survey include:

Teens agree money management is important, but they are not doing it. From 2011 to 2012, there was a three-fold increase in the number of teens who report not budgeting or managing their money (10 percent in 2011 versus 34 percent in 2012).
Teens are not getting as much of their money management information in school as they used to. In 2011, 58 percent of teens reported learning how to manage money in school or from teachers. In 2012, that number dropped to 24 percent. The majority of teens agree that money management is best learned between kindergarten and 12th grade, which underscores the opportunity for programs such as those offered by Junior Achievement.
Parents are an important role model. Teens reported a significant drop in their parents or guardians saving more money as a result of the recession (59 percent in 2011 versus 21 percent in 2012). Teens are modeling the same behavior and saving less too—56 percent plan to save some of their income, down from 89 percent a year ago.

An executive summary of the 2012 Junior Achievement USA/Allstate Foundation Teens and Personal Finance Survey is available at www.ja.org.

Methodology
This report presents the findings of an online survey conducted from March 8-19, 2012, among a national sample of 1,059 teens ages 14-18. The survey's margin of error is +/- 3 percent at the 95 percent confidence level.

About Junior Achievement USA® (JA)
Junior Achievement is the world's largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their future, and make smart academic and economic choices. JA programs are delivered by corporate and community volunteers, and provide relevant, hands-on experiences that give students from kindergarten through high school knowledge and skills in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship. Today, JA reaches four million students per year in more than 120 markets across the United States, with an additional 6.5 million students served by operations in 117 other countries worldwide. Visit www.ja.org for more information.

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people's well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.allstatefoundation.org.

Contacts:
Stephanie Bell
Junior Achievement USA®
(719) 540-6171
sbell@ja.org
@JA_USA

Kyle Donash
The Allstate Foundation
(847) 402-5600
Kyle.Donash@Allstate.com
@AllstateNews

Social Responsibility: Allstate Applauds U.S. Rep. Allen West for Support of National Graduated Driver Licensing Legislation

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 13:15:00 -0500

Bipartisan bill that would help save lives and taxpayer dollars ramps up sponsors in Congress
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate joined U.S. Rep. Allen West (R-FL) in Jupiter, Fla. today as he announced his co-sponsorship of the Safe Teen and Novice Uniform Protection (STANDUP) Act – H.R. 1515.

"We are proud to stand with Congressman West on this important piece of legislation that will help save lives and helps create a culture of safe driving for current and future generations," said Bill Vainisi, senior vice president and deputy general counsel, Allstate Insurance Company. "This is truly a bipartisan issue that affects American families across the country, and we urge leaders in Congress to join us in the fight to enact federal uniform graduated driver licensing (GDL) standards that empower states to establish stronger teen driving laws. This can be done either by passing STANDUP as a stand-alone bill or by supporting its inclusion in pending transportation reauthorization bills before Congress."

The STANDUP Act creates minimum GDL standards for all young drivers to protect them on America's highways and roads. GDL programs allow new young drivers to gain experience under supervised and less risky conditions, addressing several major facets of the teen driving problem.

Underscoring the benefit this legislation has for communities and families is a recent study conducted by the National Safety Council on the financial and human impact of such laws. That report indicates that if all states implemented comprehensive GDL laws, an estimated 2,000 lives could be saved. Further, if all 50 states were to enact these laws, it could generate savings of $13.6 billion per year. In Florida alone, 181 lives and more than $1.2 billion could be saved.

Congressman West announced his support of the STANDUP Act today at a teen driving event at Jupiter High School. Joined by teens, law enforcement and victim family advocates, West expressed his concern to strengthen teen driving laws in Florida and across the country.

"As the father of two teenage daughters, I am personally concerned with the dangers of young people on the road,"West said."The STANDUP Act will do exactly that- 'Stand Up' for our children, by taking a bold approach to tightening up the laws on teens and driving.I thank Allstate for being a leader in the insurance industry and joining me in support of this legislation. I encourage my colleagues across both sides of the Congressional aisle to support the STANDUP Act."

More than 50 Members of Congress from both political parties have signed on as co-sponsors of the STANDUP Act, further emphasizing the need to pass this bipartisan legislation. Elements of the bill have been included in the major federal highway funding legislation currently before Congress, and Allstate continues to work toward advancing the strongest national minimum GDL standards possible.

"Most states have some form of GDL laws, but individual standards vary from state to state. This patchwork system of varying state teen driving laws fails to fully include all of the proven elements of reliable behind-the-wheel training for young drivers," said Vainisi. "Car crashes are the leading cause of death among American teens, and we have a real opportunity to stop this epidemic in its tracks with a national GDL law."

GDL laws allow novice and/or teen drivers to get on-the-road driving experience gradually, and under lower-risk conditions. GDL laws vary by state but the STANDUP Act has the following optimal provisions:

Three-phase licensing process before full licensure that includes a learner's permit issued no earlier than age 16, an intermediate stage, and full licensure at age 18;
Ban on cell phone use and other mobile devices, including texting while driving;
Nighttime driving restrictions; and,
Restrictions on driving with teen passengers.

Through Allstate's Save 11 Campaign, more than 177,000 Americans have already added their voice to a growing chorus of citizens urging Congress to pass this bill and that number continues to grow. Visit facebook.com/save11 to learn how to contact your local lawmakers and support the STANDUP Act.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

Contact:
Meghann Dowd
(847) 402-5600
@AllstateNews on Twitter

Social Responsibility: Community Heroes, Rodney Peete Kick Off Allstate's National "Give Back Day" in Honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 06:00:00 -0600

Citizens can join Allstate's Give Back Day movement through local volunteer events
This release contains: 7 Videos, 8 Photos, 1 Related Document

For the fourth consecutive year, Allstate Insurance Company is paying tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., by encouraging individuals to volunteer in their communities on MLK Day 2012 (Jan. 16) through its Give Back Day program (allstate.com/givebackday). Former NFL quarterback and co-founder of the HollyRod Foundation Rodney Peete is helping launch the program along with four outstanding community heroes who are recognized as leading volunteers in their communities. Peete and the four Heroes will be guiding Give Back Day activities in their home cities with Allstate.

The four exemplary individuals who have been named as 2012 Allstate Give Back Day Heroes are:

Joyce Calvin, Chicago
Robert Cradle,Baltimore
John Darjean, Dallas
Alexandria Phillips, Atlanta

"The Allstate Give Back Day Heroes are remarkable individuals who selflessly give back, keeping Dr. King's legacy alive through their passionate commitment to service," said Vicky Dinges, vice president of public social responsibility for Allstate. "Their volunteer efforts reflect the values and causes important to Allstate and communities across America. We hope their stories inspire others to put their good hands to work in their own communities every day and on Jan. 16, in honor of Dr. King."

On behalf of the Give Back Day Heroes, Allstate is making a donation of $2,500 to a charity of each hero's choice. These remarkable individuals help create positive, sustainable change in their communities by volunteering to address important causes like domestic violence, economic empowerment and mentoring at-risk youth. Heroes will attend The King Center's "Salute to Greatness" Awards in Atlanta on Jan.14, 2012, for a celebration of individuals and organizations that exemplify excellence in leadership.

In addition, Peete will be attending a special Allstate Give Back Day volunteer event in Atlanta on MLK Day 2012. "It is an honor for me to be associated with this committed and selfless group of heroes. I have always believed in getting involved in causes that you are passionate about, and it's great to see these individuals mirroring the spirit of Dr. King by giving back," said Peete, who spent 16 years in the NFL as a quarterback. Peete and wife Holly's HollyRod Foundation, which helps those living with autism and Parkinson's disease, is currently developing plans to open their first "HollyRod4kids Compassionate Care Center for Autism" in Los Angeles, a central location where families in the autism community can go for support, guidance, treatment and hope.

Individuals interested in participating in Allstate Give Back Day 2012 can visit allstate.com/GiveBackDay to find local volunteer opportunities via VolunteerMatch, an online search engine promoting volunteerism and civic engagement by matching volunteers with charitable organizations and non-profits. Visitors to the website can view profiles of the four Allstate Give Back Day Heroes and learn about their community involvement through a series of video interviews. In 2011, more than 1,500 Allstate employees, agency owners and community members volunteered in dozens of cities across the country on Give Back Day.

Allstate's 2012 Give Back Day Heroes

Joyce Calvin, Chicago - A survivor of domestic violence, Joyce Calvin founded Women of Valor Ministry (WOVM), a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging, empowering and equipping women and girls to develop their full potential. Since its inception, WOVM has reached more than 10,000 women through skills development, domestic violence workshops, health and wellness conferences, one-on-one interaction and retreats. Calvin also serves as a project coordinator for the All Faiths Against Domestic Violence Project at the Chicago Metropolitan Battered Women's Networks. In 2011, she published her first book, Sister to Sister Support for the Abused Woman: Beauty for Ashes. Calvin currently serves as president of the Women in Ministry and Business Alliance (WIMBA) and executive director of WOVM.

Robert Cradle, Baltimore - In 2001, Robert Cradle was running a successful barbershop when he realized that he wanted his career to make more of an impact. He decided to put his skills to use and started Rob's Barbershop Community Foundation (R.B.C.F), which provides grooming services for the homeless and children in need throughout Baltimore. Over the past ten years, the projects sponsored by R.B.C.F. have provided over 16,000 services to 6,000 homeless and/or individuals in need. The foundation currently has shops operating at transitional shelters and drug treatment programs. Baltimore's community members who otherwise could not afford these types of services are now able to attend job interviews or school with a neat and clean appearance, not to mention a heightened sense of self-confidence. In 2010, Cradle was granted the NAACP Humanitarian Award for his extensive work in the Baltimore community.

John Darjean, Dallas - John Darjean has served as a mentor and coach for the past ten years, teaching inner-city youth the fundamentals of baseball in an effort to keep them off the streets and out of trouble. Darjean grew up in a rough neighborhood and struggled in school but baseball was the one thing that helped keep him out of trouble. After four years playing minor league baseball for the New York Yankees, Darjean started Majors 2 Minors, a baseball league for inner-city kids. He also co-founded the Dallas Baseball Alliance, a program leveraging the fundamentals of baseball to teach kids discipline and life skills. A lifelong volunteer with the Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation, having endured sickle cell traits since birth, Darjean also volunteers with the Dallas Police Athletic League and the American Cancer Society.

Alexandria Phillips, Atlanta - Never-ending compassion for humankind was instilled in Alexandria Phillips at a very early age. Phillips was five years old when she moved with her mother from their hometown near Kansas City, Mo., to the Dominican Republic for a year-long stay in a poverty stricken village. In 2011, she served as Haiti Team intern at the Clinton Foundation and worked for the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting. She was also recently named an Opportunity Nation Scholar. Phillips, 21, is currently a senior at Spelman College in Atlanta where she is majoring in International Studies and is a member of Delta Sigma Theta, the Student United Way, Actively Changing Tomorrow through Service (ACTS) and the Association of Fundraising Professionals. After graduation, Phillips hopes to work for a non-profit.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

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Contact:

Kate Hollcraft
(847) 402-5600
kate.hollcraft@allstate.com

Social Responsibility: Allstate and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel Dedicate New Soccer Field at Humboldt Park

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 12:30:00 -0500

This release contains: 4 Videos, 7 Photos, 2 Related Documents

Allstate Insurance Company was joined this morning by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, local officials and several dozen soccer-playing kids to dedicate Allstate Field, a new, state-of-the-art soccer field at Humboldt Park located in the city's northwest side.

The 207-acre Allstate Field is made of FieldTurf premium artificial turf, which features all-weather surfacing that provides usability for at least nine months a year. The new field also includes a new lighting system, which will increase playing and programming time at the park.

"Allstate is committed to improving Chicago's neighborhoods. Allstate Field at Humboldt Parkrepresents a new level of partnership with the Chicago Park District. The vision and leadership of Mayor Emanuel and Park District President Traubert inspired us to raise our investment in Chicago beyond the ten playgrounds we built over the past few years," said Tom Wilson, Allstate president, chairman and chief executive officer. "The field will be a place where the community can come together and a symbol of the private and public sectors working together to improve our hometown."

The insurer helped build the new regulation-size soccer field as part of the "Take the Field" initiative, which joined public and private resources to build 10 public athletic fields throughout the City of Chicago. Allstate and the Pritzker Traubert Foundation provided a combined $1 million in funding for the field.

"I'd like to thank Allstate for helping us to create this outstanding facility and for its longtime support of the City's park programs and neighborhoods," said Mayor Emanuel. "Allstate Field will be used by area youth athletic programs, schools and adult soccer leagues and enjoyed by Humboldt neighborhood residents for years to come."

Also in attendance at the dedication were Interim Chicago Park District Superintendent Mike Kelly, Chicago Park District Board President Bryan Traubert, and members of the Urban Initiative's youth soccer program.

* * * B-roll * * *
Professional quality, non-branded, Hi-def B-roll, as well as photos, available for download at www.allstatenewsroom.com beginning at 3:00 p.m. CST on Saturday, Oct. 15.

Social Responsibility: It's Time to Talk: More Than One-Third of Americans Have Never Discussed Domestic Violence

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 06:57:00 -0500

New Allstate Foundation campaign sparks conversation during Domestic Violence Awareness Month; new symbol makes starting the conversation easier
This release contains: 9 Videos, 3 Related Documents

Even though domestic violence affects one in four women in their lifetime, more than one-third of Americans have never discussed the issue with a friend or family member. Three out of five believe that it is a difficult issue to discuss.

This month, The Allstate Foundation and the YWCA are joining forces to break the silence and raise awareness about domestic violence by launching a new campaign designed to spur conversation and make it easier to talk about the issue. Based on long-term commitment to helping empower women economically to end domestic violence, the campaign encourages individuals to spread the story of the Purple Purse – the Foundation's new national symbol for domestic violence.

"What many people don't realize is that abuse can be financial in nature such as withholding banking information or controlling a partner's money or misusing her financial identity and ruining a person's credit. This occurs just as frequently as physical abuse," said Michele Mayes, Allstate executive vice president & general counsel. "We are rallying people behind the Purple Purse because it stands for economic empowerment and represents the center of a woman's financial domain. It's also meant to convey the message that it's okay to talk about it – in fact please do."

To spread the message about the power of the Purple Purse, The Allstate Foundation today launched www.PurplePurse.com. The website appears to be an online shopping magazine, but after scrolling down the page, the user will find a variety of information and resources specific to the issue of domestic violence and financial empowerment. The website serves as a tool to raise awareness and provides a safe and informative place for women to educate themselves. PurplePurse.com also provides a place for women to start a discussion about domestic violence.

"As the largest provider of domestic violence services in the nation, the YWCA has worked tirelessly to combat domestic violence," says Gloria Lau, CEO of the YWCA USA. "Our partnership with The Allstate Foundation to heighten awareness of domestic violence and launch PurplePurse.com is another meaningful step in our effort to end this horrible epidemic in our society."

To kick-off the campaign, The Allstate Foundation and YWCA, along with top bloggers, are organizing TweetUps in nine cities across the country. The events are planned in nine cities across the country, including Birmingham, Ala., Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, El Paso, Texas, Los Angeles, New York City, Seattle, and Tucson, Ariz.

These events are designed to explain the story behind the Purple Purse, share information about the issue and encourage individuals to help spread the word about the campaign. TweetUp attendees will also have the opportunity to hear from a domestic violence survivor at each event.As an additional incentive to inspire more people to get involved, The Allstate Foundation will donate $100 for each TweetUp attendee, up to $10,000 at each event, totaling a $90,000 contribution to the YWCA.

Individuals across the country are encouraged to participate in the campaign and show their support by carrying a purple purse or bag throughout October, posting their favorite purple purse pics to PurplePurse.com and downloading the Purple Purse widget available on the website. This widget makes it easy to share Purple Purse content through social media and is designed to ensure that more people in need will be able to get information that can help.

Each year, The Allstate Foundation contributes more than $3 million in grants and programming to support economic empowerment for survivors and to help end domestic violence. Visit www.PurplePurse.com and www.ClickToEmpower.com to learn more.

About the Survey
The Allstate Foundation partnered with ORC International to conduct the research on domestic violence awareness. ORC International conducted telephone surveys among a national probability sample of 1,002 adults between September 22-25, 2011. The sample was comprised of 501 men and 501 women 18 years of age and older, living in private households in the continental United States. The sampling error associated with a sample size of 1,002 is plus/minus two to three percentage points at a 95 percent confidence level.

About YWCA
The YWCA USA is one of the oldest and largest women's organizations in the nation with the mission of eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. In the U.S., the YWCA serves over 2 million women, girls and their families. Globally, the YWCA USA is a member of the World YWCA, which has affiliates in 122 countries that serve 25 million women and girls worldwide.

Social Responsibility: The Allstate Foundation and National Network to End Domestic Violence Named Finalists for U.S. Chamber Partnership Award

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 08:04:00 -0500

This release contains: 1 Related Document

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center (BCLC) announced that The Allstate Foundation and the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) are finalists for the Best Partnership Award, a category in the prestigious annual Corporate Citizenship Awards program.

The Allstate Foundation and NNEDV are recognized for their collaboration to provide services available to help domestic violence survivors better understand their personal finances and build assets. Nearly one in 4 women in the United States experience domestic violence during their lifetime. And, research shows that lacking financial knowledge and resources are the main reasons why victims of domestic violence return to or remain in abusive relationships.

The Best Partnership category honors companies and charitable organizations for working together to address important social issues. The winner of this award is determined by online public voting at www.corporatecitizenshipvote.com. Voting in the 2011 competition began Sept. 19 and will continue until 11:59 p.m. EDT on Oct. 28.

"The results of the Allstate-NNEDV partnership are not only impressive, but they also meet an incredible social need while increasing financial literacy and independence for women. This is why the U.S. Chamber is honored to recognize them as a finalist in the Best Partnership category of the 2011 Citizens Awards," said U.S. Chamber Founder and Executive Director Stephen Jordan.

In 2010, more than 15,000 votes were cast to select the winning partnership. The 2011 winner will be announced on Nov. 17 at a celebratory event hosted at the U.S. Chamber headquarters in Washington, D.C.

"Building financial know-how is critical for everyone, but for domestic violence survivors it can be life-saving," said Joan Walker, Allstate executive vice president. "The Allstate Foundation and the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) are working to provide survivors with information and resources to help rebuild their lives, and we hope this recognition from the U.S. Chamber will help us in those efforts."

Full information about the U.S. Chamber BCLC Corporate Citizenship Awards is available at http.bclc.uschamber.com/awards.

The Business Civic Leadership Center (BCLC) is affiliated with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, serving as the business community’s resource and voice for social and philanthropic interests. Its mission is to advance the positive role of business in society. The U.S. Chamber is the world’s largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

About The Allstate Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people’s well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.AllstateFoundation.org.

Social Responsibility: Allstate Recognized by CDP for Climate Change Disclosure: Named to S&P 500 Leadership Index

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:00:00 -0500

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Allstate Insurance Company announced today it has been named to the Carbon Disclosure Project’s (CDP) 2011 Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index for its proactive approach to the disclosure of the company’s climate change information.

The index, a key component of CDP’s annual S&P 500 report, highlights the constituent companies within the S&P 500 Index that have displayed the most professional approach to corporate governance regarding climate change information disclosure practices. Companies are scored on their climate change disclosure, and high scores indicate good internal data management and understanding of climate change-related issues affecting the company.

Compiled by PwC on behalf of CDP, the index provides an evaluation tool for institutional investors and other stakeholders. For 2011, it comprises 55 companies from the S&P 500 Index based on analysis of the responses to CDP’s questionnaire, which focused on greenhouse gas emissions, emissions reduction targets and risks, and opportunities associated with climate change.

“Allstate strives to be transparent about our business practices, including how we manage our carbon footprint and lessen our impact on the environment,” said Craig Keller, director, public social responsibility at Allstate. “We are pleased to be recognized for our efforts to inform others about our actions to reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate the risks of climate change to our operations.”

“Companies that make the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index have demonstrated good internal data management practices for understanding greenhouse gas emissions. They have shown a strong awareness of the business issues related to climate change including climate-related risks and opportunities,” said Paul Simpson, chief executive officer of the Carbon Disclosure Project. “Those organizations that give clear consideration to measuring and reporting on climate change issues will be best placed to capitalize on the opportunities from managing them.”

As part of its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, Allstate has a goal to maintain or reduce Allstate’s carbon footprint on an annual basis, as published in the company’s response to the CDP annual survey. In 2010, Allstate met this goal with a published 3 percent decrease over prior year or a total of a 15 percent reduction since its baseline of 2007. Additional information regarding sustainability efforts at Allstate can be found in its annual Social Responsibility Report at http://www.allstate.com/social-responsibility.aspx.

The S&P 500 report including names of companies featured in the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index can be found at www.cdproject.net.

About CDP
The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) is an independent not-for-profit organization holding the largest database of primary corporate climate change and water information in the world. Some 3,000 organizations across the world’s largest economies now measure and disclose their greenhouse gas emissions and assessment of climate change risk and opportunity through CDP, in order that they can set reduction targets and make performance improvements. This data is gathered on behalf of 551 institutional investors, holding US$71 trillion in assets. For more information, visit www.cdproject.net.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its “You’re In Good Hands With Allstate®” slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Social Responsibility: Allstate Releases 2010 Social Responsibility Report, "When Good Hands People Give Back™"

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Annual report shares hands-on approach to helping communities, those in need
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Allstate Insurance Company today released its annual Social Responsibility Report, entitled "When Good Hands People Give Back". The report reviews Allstate's community involvement and sustainability strategy, as well as goals for four major focus areas of the company during the 2010 fiscal year: the environment, stakeholders, business practices and social impact.

Allstate approaches its commitment to communities and sustainability in these four areas with significant support from its agency owners and employees, and through a number of smart investments. Highlights in this year's report include:

Leadership on Teen Driving Safety – Although motor vehicle crashes are still the leading cause of death among American teens, Allstate and The Allstate Foundation have helped contribute to the reduction of teen driving deaths in America by nearly 40 percent over the past five years.
Financial Education and Services for Domestic Violence Survivors – As a leader in financial services, Allstate advises people everyday on their finances, and has helped more than 30,000 domestic violence survivors break the cycle of violence through financial education, matched savings and job readiness training.
Minimizing Impact on the Environment - Allstate is currently on target to meet aggressive goals in this area. Last year alone, the company reduced paper use in its home office by 41 percent and in its field offices by more than 50 percent compared with its 2008 baseline.
Local Involvement and Investment – The Allstate Foundation, Allstate, its employees and agency owners contributed more than $30 million to community projects in 2010. More than one third of The Allstate Foundation grants and corporate contributions support programs for multicultural communities. In addition, thousands of employees and agency owners serve as enthusiastic volunteers in hometowns across the country.

For more details and updates on philanthropic initiatives Allstate undertook in 2010, view and download Allstate's Social Responsibility Report.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Social Responsibility: South Florida's Alicia Ewen Named Volunteer of the Year and National Jefferson Award 'Champion'

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 02:50:00 -0500

Allstate employee recognized by insurer and Jefferson Awards for positive impact in local community.
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Allstate is proud to announce Alicia Ewen (Uh-LISH-uh YOU-in) of Coconut Creek as Allstate's Helping Hands Volunteer of the Year. Selected from dozens of nominations, Ewen was chosen for her efforts to make the dream of home ownership a reality for deserving families across South Florida.

Ewen contributes countless hours of volunteer time to build homes for families in need in her own community and around the world. For more than six years, Ewen has worked with Habitat for Humanity of Broward County, totaling more than 850 hours of volunteer work. She spent three weeks of her personal vacation time to participate in a five-day home build in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and has participated in home build trips in Los Angeles; Birmingham, Alabama; Shreveport, Louisiana; and Gulfport, Mississippi.

"The spirit of volunteerism Alicia brings to her community is extraordinary. Her helping hands have helped many families realize the dream of home ownership and the pride that comes with that," said Vicky Dinges, vice president of public social responsibility at Allstate. "She is a leader among the many Allstate agents and employees who give their time and talents to make a positive impact in their communities, and we are proud to have her represent our company."

The Helping Hands Recognition Program acknowledges Allstate volunteers who embody the spirit of giving back to the communities in which they live and work, and honors their service to those communities. Each year, Allstate partners with the prestigious Jefferson Awards for Public Service, one of America's leading volunteerism recognition institutions, to select its top employee volunteer, who was chosen by a Jefferson Awards selection panel. Due to her exemplary service to her community, the Jefferson Awards also selected Ewen as one of two Americans to receive the honor of being named a Jefferson Award "Champion" this year.

As Volunteer of the Year, Ewen received a $5,000 check from the Allstate Foundation to present to the charity of her choice, Habitat for Humanity of Broward County. Ewen received her award at the Jefferson Awards National Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on June 21.

"Allstate has been extremely supportive of my efforts to help underprivileged members of my community, and I am honored they are recognizing me with this award," said Alicia Ewen. "To receive the additional Allstate funding support to Habitat for Humanity of Broward County that comes with this recognition means so much to me personally and to countless families in need, as well."

In addition to her work building homes, Ewen recently graduated from the Coconut Creek Community Emergency Response Team program, where she received certification in first aid, CPR and AED usage. Her training also included search and rescue, fire suppression and medical disaster instruction. Putting these certifications to full use, Ewen is now volunteering at local events providing first aid and emergency preparedness.

An Allstate employee for 15 years, Ewen currently works as a leader of a specialized unit of investigators who partner with local law enforcement to fight insurance fraud. She is a graduate of Purdue University.

Social Responsibility: Teens' 'Acting Out' About Teen Safe Driving Earns $60,000 for Schools

Tue, 31 May 2011 13:55:00 -0500

Eleven U.S. schools help curb distracted driving and win prizes
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Eleven U.S. high schools were selected from more than 80 schools around the country as winners of the national Act Out Loud contest to curb distracted driving, earning prizes totaling $60,000. Act Out Loud, sponsored by The Allstate Foundation and National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) is a school-based, teen-led competition to raise awareness about youth traffic safety and empower teens to take on the issue locally.

Teams of students participated in the contest by submitting a video documenting their safe driving campaign and creatively showing how they addressed distracted driving, involved their community or partnered with community leaders. Contest winners are determined by the number of votes each video receives. Special Judge's Awards are also awarded.

The winners of the 2011 Act Out Loud contest are:

Grand Prize Winner: Stuarts Draft High School from Stuarts Draft, Virginia, received $10,000 for receiving the most votes of any other entry for their project.

Runner-up winners - Each of the following schools received the most votes after the Grand Prize Winner, and will receive $5,000 each.

Judge's Awards - Act Out Loud judges chose these schools for their projects' creativity and effectiveness. Each school will receive $5,000 each.

"Allstate and its agents and employees know that being involved in the community makes a difference. With the Act Out Loud program, that involvement is helping to make our children safer," said Vicky Dinges, vice president of public social responsibility at Allstate. "Younger, inexperienced drivers under the age of 20 experience the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes. We are very pleased that so many teens recognize this reality and participated in Act Out Loud and used their creativity to bring attention to stop distracted driving."

Act Out Loud took place in May as part of National Youth Traffic Safety Month. Now in its fifth year, National Youth Traffic Safety Month engages youth from across the country in peer-to-peer education efforts to address the number one cause of death for teens in the U.S. - traffic crashes. Eight of the 10 deadliest days for teens on the road occur during the months of May through August and driver distraction contributes to 25 percent of all police-reported traffic crashes.

Here are five ways everyone can be safer behind the wheel:

Wear a seat belt all the time.
Drive the speed limit.
Limit the number of passengers in your car.
Pull over to make a call or text a friend.
Never drive after drinking alcohol.

For more information about the contest, visit www.ActOutLoud.org.

Social Responsibility: Economics Crash Course: Teens Learn College Education Doesn't Come Cheap

Tue, 31 May 2011 00:55:00 -0500

Junior Achievement-The Allstate Foundation Poll Shows Urgent Need for Financial Planning for Young Adults and Family Financial Conversations
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A new study from Junior Achievement and The Allstate Foundation reveals that teens are feeling the fallout from the recession in a number of ways. Two-thirds of teens are changing their college plans due to the recession: half are working more to pay for college and 42% now plan to attend college close to home.

Also, compared to 2010, more teens are working to pay for college (an increase of 9%) and planning to stay closer to home for school or not go to an out-of-state college (an increase of 5%). And nearly half of teens surveyed report that they are more concerned about the economy than last year and 63 percent say their families are spending less due to the recession.

"Teens face many tough decisions in their lives. Two of the biggest are where to go to college and more importantly, can they afford the high costs that come with it," said Matt Winter, president and CEO, Allstate Financial. "In today's global economy, getting a financial head-start can lead to big pay-offs in the future. That's why educating kids about money management is so important to us and to the financial health of our country."

Optimism among Teens Despite Less Financial Support
Despite the recession's changes to their lives, teens are optimistic about their hopes for the future: 97 percent of teens surveyed plan on going to college and 83 percent believe they'll be financially independent of their parents by age 24. Recent trends, however, prove these beliefs might be a bit optimistic. With economic recovery limping along, many Americans are still out of work and struggling, having to put retirement plans and college attendance for their children on hold.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of families with at least one unemployed member has nearly doubled from 6.3 percent in 2007, to 12.4 percent in 2010. "Previous generations of youth have had the luxury of relying on their parents for not only emotional support, but also financial support as they go through college and enter adulthood," said Jack E. Kosakowski, president and chief executive officer of Junior Achievement USA™. "Now, with many families' financial situations in limbo, this support is strained. It's more important than ever to empower teens to own their economic success, and Junior Achievement can help them along that path."

College students often count on their parents to financially assist them while in school. And many young adults even rely on their parents as they enter the workforce, whether that entails help with car payments and cell phone bills, or moving back home to save money on rent. However, the recession has altered many parents' abilities to assist their children as they transition to adulthood, which has left teens worried about their options.

Even with these financial set-backs, an astounding 89 percent of teen respondents said they'll be as financially well-off as their parents. However, only three-quarters of teens think they are currently budgeting their money successfully, and a mere 39 percent think they are effectively using credit cards.

Family Financial Discussions and a Gender Gap
Ninety-two percent of respondents say they learn about money management from their parents, yet less than half (43 percent) discuss money management as a family. The likelihood that money management discussion occurs changes based on the teens' gender: 48 percent of males say their parents talk to them about finances versus 57 percent of females.

Managing debt and saving is the basis of fiscal health, and teens need to be given the tools and experiences early on to build a solid foundation in basic money management to kick-start their future financial success.

To help parents open up a dialogue with their children about fiscal responsibility, Junior Achievement, in partnership with The Allstate Foundation, has created new, free, interactive online lessons for all age groups, which complement existing classroom lessons. Here, elementary-aged students will learn about financial decisions based on spending and savings, middle school students apply their knowledge of income to make various purchasing decisions using credit, and high school students learn more about long-term financial decisions such as paying for college or buying a car. By providing young adults with the tools they need to make smart financial decisions, Junior Achievement assists them with achieving their own personal success.

This is the twelfth year that Junior Achievement has conducted its "Teens and Personal Finance" survey. For a summary of the results, visit www.ja.org.

Methodology
This report presents the findings of a telephone survey conducted among a national sample of 1,000 teens comprising 500 males and 500 females 12 to 17 years of age, living in private households in the continental United States. Interviewing for this TEEN CARAVAN® Survey was completed during the period March 3-8, 2011. The survey's margin of error is +/- 3.2 percent.

About Junior Achievement (JA)
Junior Achievement is the world's largest organization dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy. Through a dedicated volunteer network, Junior Achievement provides in-school and after-school programs for students which focus on three key content areas: work readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. Today, 126 individual area operations reach four million students in the United States, with an additional 5.8 million students served by operations in 123 other countries worldwide.

Social Responsibility: The Allstate Foundation Donates $50,000 to the American Red Cross 2011 Spring Storm Disaster Relief Fund in Alabama and States in the South

Wed, 11 May 2011 00:05:56 -0500

Company also matching employee and Agency owner gifts to top that amount
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The Allstate Foundation announced today it is donating $50,000 to help communities across the South recover and rebuild from the devastating tornadoes.

"Our hearts go out to the families and our own customers who have been impacted by the tornadoes that swept across the South," said Vicky Dinges, Allstate vice president for Public Social Responsibility. "Allstate agency owners, claim employees and National Catastrophe Team members are on the scene helping people recover from this disaster. This donation is Allstate's way of helping restore entire communities. It builds on our long-lasting commitment to help people in time of need." The Allstate Foundation will present the $50,000 donation through the American Red Cross 2011 Spring Storm Disaster Relief Fund.

Additionally, for Allstate employees and Agency owners wanting a way to give personally to the cause, the Foundation will match 15 percent of every dollar that Allstaters contribute through the company's annual Giving Campaign.

The Foundation's donation is part of Allstate's annual charitable and philanthropic contributions that totaled more than $18 million in 2010 to communities across the United States.

About The Allstate Foundation Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people's well-being and prosperity. With a focus on teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. For more information, visit www.allstatefoundation.org.

# # #

Contact:

April Eaton
(847) 402-5600

Social Responsibility: The Allstate Foundation Helps Build Safer, Stronger Families

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 02:57:55 -0600

More than $18 million in funding will drive social change in 2011
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The Allstate Foundation's philanthropic approach to inform, engage and empower Americans is catalyzing social change across the country. Whether it's breaking the cycle of domestic violence, making roads safer for teens, providing economic education or rebuilding communities, funding from The Allstate Foundation is helping individuals fulfill their hopes and dreams.

"We take our role as a corporate citizen seriously and focus on social issues where we can have meaningful impact," said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president of public social responsibility, Allstate. "The Allstate Foundation draws on Allstate's cross-country network of employees and agency owners to deliver the skills, resources and services needed to prepare and protect Americans."

Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations in 2011, the Foundation will continue to broaden its reach to influence sustainable change. Funding applications for community service organizations that support the Foundation's mission will be accepted online starting Jan. 25 at www.allstate.com/foundation. Last year, The Allstate Foundation contributed more than $17.8 million to develop and implement practical, proven programs for thousands of individuals and families facing personal challenges and uncertainties.

In 2010, The Allstate Foundation helped community organizations in 33 states provide domestic violence survivors with economic empowerment services like financial education, job readiness assistance and asset-building resources. As a result, the Foundation helped more than 25,000 survivors take steps toward financial security and violence-free lives last year, up from more than 2,320 survivors served in 2009.

"For five years, The Allstate Foundation has been a driving force in working to end the cycle of domestic violence. Especially during these difficult economic times, their innovative economic empowerment projects and resources are making a real difference for survivors and their children," said Sue Else, president, National Network to End Domestic Violence.

The Allstate Foundation's Teen Safe Driving Program helped reduce teen crash fatalities over the last five years through teen-to-teen communications. In 2010, the Foundation involved more than 220,000 individuals in teen safe driving projects, increasing program participants by nearly 120 percent over 2009.

"By giving teens a voice in saving young lives on the road, The Allstate Foundation is bringing an important, but often overlooked, resource to the tragic teen driving epidemic in our nation," said Sandy Spavone, executive director, National Organizations for Youth Safety.

The Foundation's long-time support for Junior Achievement's Economics for Success curriculum provided life lessons on money management and careers to its millionth student in 2010. The Allstate Foundation also continued to help rebuild diverse neighborhoods in New Orleans.

Since 1952, the Foundation has invested more than $237 million in communities across the country.

Contact:

Meghann Dowd
(847) 402-5600

Social Responsibility: Allstate's Give Back Day Activates Volunteers to Honor Martin Luther King Jr.

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 08:11:55 -0600

More than 2,000 Americans unite to celebrate Dr. King's commitment to service
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In communities across the country, more than 2,000 volunteers joined Allstate Insurance Company agents and employees in tribute to the heroic public service of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Give Back Day reminds people to start the year by giving back and to volunteer in their community every day.

Allstate hosted service projects in 14 communities, partnering with non-profits to address social needs on a local level. Volunteers in Chicago held a book drive for elementary students in Chicago Public Schools. In Texas, Allstate partnered with Rebuilding Together to clean and repair homes of low-income residents. Allstate New Jersey teamed up with Junior Achievement of New Jersey to help beautify an elementary school. And, in Denver, Allstate agents and employees read books to patients at local children's hospitals.

"As part of the 25th anniversary celebration of the great Martin Luther King Jr., Allstate is keeping his legacy alive by bringing together passionate volunteers who share our commitment to service," said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president, public social responsibility. "Give Back Day reminds us that, just like Dr. King, every American can be a hero in their community."

Allstate recently recognized four Give Back Day community heroes in Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit and St. Louis, who have created positive, sustainable change by volunteering to address important causes like domestic violence, elementary education and mentoring at-risk youth. Heroes attended The King Center's "Salute to Greatness" Awards in Atlanta on Jan. 15 for a celebration of individuals and organizations that exemplify excellence in leadership.

Community volunteering is an important part of the Allstate culture. The company pioneered one of the first Corporate Volunteer Programs more than 30 years ago. Since then, Allstate has reinvented volunteering by using new tools like VolunteerMatch, an online search engine promoting volunteerism and civic engagement by matching volunteers with charitable organizations and non-profits. Individuals can find their own way to give back by visiting www.allstate.com/givebackday.

PHOTOS AVAILABLE for download at Allstate's Digital Newsroom.

Contact:
Meghann Dowd
(847) 402-5600

Social Responsibility: Allstate to Honor Volunteer Heroes on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 02:04:55 -0600

Give Back Day encourages year-round community service
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As a tribute to the heroic public service of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Allstate Insurance Company will honor four exemplary heroes who make a difference by giving back to the African American community. Allstate's 2011 Give Back Day Heroes program, now in its second year, encourages all Americans to be everyday heroes by volunteering locally on MLK Day 2011 (January 17), and throughout the year.

The 2011 Allstate Give Back Day Heroes nominated for recognition by their peers are:

Jonathan Wall, Atlanta, Ga.
Rosazlia Grillier, Chicago, Ill.
Glenda Cook, Detroit, Mich.
Leonard Johnson, St. Louis, Mo.

"These remarkable men and women keep Dr. King's legacy alive through their passionate commitment to service," said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president public social responsibility for Allstate. "We hope their stories inspire others to put their good hands to work in their own neighborhoods on Give Back Day and every day."

Each hero has helped create positive, sustainable change in their communities by volunteering to address important causes like domestic violence, elementary education and mentoring at-risk youth. Heroes will attend The King Center's "Salute to Greatness" Awards in Atlanta on Jan. 15, 2011 for a celebration of individuals and organizations that exemplify excellence in leadership.

Individuals interested in participating in Allstate Give Back Day 2011 can visit allstate.com/GiveBackDay to find local service opportunities via VolunteerMatch, an online search engine promoting volunteerism and civic engagement by matching volunteers with charitable organizations and non-profits. Visitors to the website can view profiles of the four Give Back Day Heroes and learn about their community involvement through a series of video interviews.

MORE ABOUT ALLSTATE'S 2011 GIVE BACK DAY HEROES

Atlanta – Jonathan Wall
In the fall of 2008, Morehouse College student Jon Wall, 20, volunteered to judge an elementary/junior high school math and debate competition in Atlanta. Among the top 40 students, only three were African American. Shaken at the state of the educational system and looking for reform, Wall wrote a Facebook wall post stating "Something's Gotta Give." The post went to his sociology professor and was then printed in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The post led former civil rights activist Lonnie King to invite Wall to start the Peachtree Hope Charter School, making him the youngest member of its board. Two years later, the school opened with Wall helping re-zone the school and leading marketing and recruiting efforts. Wall also volunteers at Atlanta's City of Refuge homeless children's shelter as a mentor. Wall plans to earn his law degree from Morehouse, aiming to work as an educational attorney.

Chicago – Rosazlia Grillier
In 2005, Rosazlia Griller weighed more than 480 pounds. Nearly immobile, she suffered from depression and had recently been diagnosed with cancer. During this time, she unwillingly attended a Community Organizing and Family Issues (COFI) meeting, a Chicago organization that trains low-income women in leadership skills and community activism. It was here that Grillier found her voice as a local organizer. With the help of COFI, Grillier worked with public officials to inspire change in her neighborhood by fundraising and building two playgrounds for the Englewood Woods Academy elementary school. The widowed mother of two teenage daughters became a grassroots leader, with a mission to encourage parents to get involved in their children's education. With Grillier's leadership, early childhood education in Englewood increased pre-school participation by 25 percent. Today, a healthier lifestyle has helped Grillier to lose more than 250 pounds, and given her increased energy to continually engage her fellow citizens to make positive changes in their own lives, their families and in their community.

Detroit – Glenda Cook
Glenda Cook has fought against domestic violence for more than 13 years. As a compassionate provider of guidance and support to victims, Cook works with the city of Detroit to build greater awareness of domestic violence and the devastating impact it has on the community. During her eight-year career with the local YWCA, Cook used every resource at her disposal to create a safe place for women and children domestic violence survivors to find education, awareness and empowerment programs. By generously investing her spare time and money to outside support groups and elementary schools, Cook is a driving force in the recently formed dating violence program, "Diamond in the Rough." A child of a domestic violence survivor, Cook plays an integral role in the quest to break the cycle of abuse in Detroit and hopes to start a nonprofit to assist the ever-growing group of youth unfairly exposed to domestic violence.

St. Louis – Leonard Johnson
On the 40th anniversary of the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Leonard Johnson felt a need to honor the spirit of the fallen hero by spearheading a citywide initiative called DreamKeepers, a coalition of students and young professionals working for racial harmony and economic justice within the St. Louis Metropolitan Area. His leadership helped raised more than $12,000 for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project. A member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Johnson enrolled as a grad student to the University of Missouri, St. Louis to pursue a master's degree in public policy and administration. His volunteer efforts focus on bringing mentorship and leadership to the young men of St. Louis. Johnson founded the Young Man Achievement Academy and Project Youth Impact, nonprofit organizations for low-income students living in urban areas. The goal of the organizations is to pair boys with a mentor partner. Johnson's work has also impacted his life on a very personal level. Shortly after his sister passed away, he became legal guardian of his nephew in an effort to provide him with better life and a positive male role model. His nephew is one of the first members of the Young Man Achievement Academy.

PHOTOS AVAILABLE for download at Allstate's Digital Newsroom.

Contact: Meghann Dowd
(847) 402-5600

Social Responsibility: The Allstate Foundation Puts Teens Behind the Wheel to Save Lives

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 13:08:56 -0500

Teens across the country empowered to bring safe driving awareness to their hometowns
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The Allstate Foundation's Teen Safe Driving (TAF) program launches four initiatives for the 2010-2011 school year to educate America's youngest driver's about the dangers of unsafe driving and empower teens to become smart driving activists in their schools and communities.

The Allstate Foundation's teen safe driving 2010-2011 school year programming includes:

Act Out Loud: Raising Voices for Safe Teen Driving

In honor of National Youth Traffic Safety Month (NYTSM) in May 2011, National Organizations for Youth Safety and TAF teamed up to develop a contest called Act Out Loud: Raising Voices for Safe Teen Driving (AOL). Now in its fourth year, AOL is a national teen-led and school-based activism competition to encourage youth to lead distracted driving campaigns in their communities. Eleven teams will win up to $10,000 for their distracted driving activism projects. Registration is open now, and the first 200 schools to enter receive a free NYTSM kit to jumpstart their campaigns.

Keep the Drive High School Journalism Awards

The third annual Keep the Drive High School Journalism Awards encourages teen journalists to educate their peers about the dangers of texting while driving. To enter, students should write an article about distracted driving and published in a school paper; or write and produce a broadcast segment about distracted driving and air it on a school TV network. Students can win up to $2,000. Applications are accepted online now through March 1, 2011.

X the TXT with Channel One News

TAF and Channel One News students are taking the pledge to “X the TXT” through a school-based competition challenging teens to rally their friends, families and community members to pledge online not to text and drive. The school with the most pledges (relevant to their size) at the end of pledge week, Feb. 7 - 13, 2011, earns $10,000, an in-school Channel One News taping, and a private concert by singer/songwriter Ashlyne Huff. Channel One schools must register to compete at ChannelOne.com/XtheTXT by Dec. 31.

National Student Leadership Week

TAF and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) are raising awareness about the dangers of unsafe driving and saving teen lives this school year by informing teen leaders about crash fatalities, involving them in safe driving initiatives and empowering them to host safe driving projects in their school. For the second year, TAF will award the top five students with a $2,000 award for their activism efforts as part of National Student Leadership Week in April 2011. Additionally, TAF funding supports student leadership development through various NASSP conferences throughout the year.

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). The Allstate Foundation strives to make our communities and our nation a better and safer place to live through partnerships with non-profit organizations promoting “safe and vital communities,” “tolerance, inclusion, and diversity” and “economic empowerment.” Teen safe driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors have been priority issues for the Foundation since 2005. For more information, visit www.ProtectTeenDrivers.com.

Social Responsibility: The Allstate Foundation, Cheryl Burke of "Dancing with the Stars" and Judge Jeanine Pirro of the "Judge Pirro" Show Ask Americans to Face Domestic Violence Together

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 09:20:56 -0500

Tell a Gal Pal® raises awareness of domestic violence and supports survivors
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More than seven out of 10 Americans know someone who is or has been a victim of domestic violence, yet it still remains a taboo subject.¹ A recent study found that only 54 percent of Americans have talked to a friend about domestic violence, and only 56 percent know how to help a victim.¹ Professional dancer, Cheryl Burke of "Dancing with the Stars" and Judge Jeanine Pirro of the "Judge Pirro Show" are teaming up with The Allstate Foundation to encourage everyone to Tell a Gal Pal and break down the barriers as a part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October and beyond.

"Domestic violence can happen to anyone - it happened to me. I'm using my experience to let survivors know that they're not alone, it's not their fault, and be proof that you can survive - and most importantly thrive in a better future," said Cheryl Burke. "By telling a gal pal about domestic violence - we're educating one another on the issue to erase misconceptions and provide the right support to those in need."

Domestic violence is an issue that does not discriminate - it impacts all genders, races and ages. The Tell a Gal Pal movement asks everyone to face domestic violence together by:

Talking openly about domestic violence to break the taboo. Tell your Gal Pals - whether it's your best friend, sister, mother, daughter, niece, cousin or neighbor - to face domestic violence by discussing the issue, educating one another and showing support for survivors.
Visiting ClicktoEmpower.org for easy ways to start the conversation, learn more about the resources available for those in need or read inspirational survivor stories.
Speaking out against domestic violence when you see it. Call the police or National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) to report domestic violence - you could help save a life.
Volunteering at or donating items to a local domestic violence program. Contact your state domestic violence coalition for more information.

Tell a Gal Pal this year will feature another new gal pal, Judge Jeanine Pirro. Since her time as a prosecutor, Judge Pirro has been an advocate on behalf of domestic violence victims - on her television show, in her court room, and through her partnership with the National Domestic Violence Hotline. She will bring her passion for fighting domestic violence to a Tell A Gal Pal public service announcement airing nationally this October.

"Everyone has a gal pal, a friend, a family member that they can speak to about this issue," said Jennifer Kuhn, Domestic Violence Program Manager with The Allstate Foundation. "By starting the conversation with our closest friends, we can put an end to the secrecy that too often shrouds domestic violence."

The Allstate Foundation is also encouraging Americans to join the conversation on Facebook to help support domestic violence survivors. For each person who visits the Click to Empower! Facebook page and pledges to Tell a Gal Pal about domestic violence, The Allstate Foundation will donate $1 to the National Network to End Domestic Violence (up to $20,000).

"Far too often, domestic violence is ignored or overlooked, resulting in devastating consequences," said Sue Else, president of the National Network to End Domestic Violence. "Domestic violence needs to be part of a larger conversation with gal pals and entire communities to raise awareness, urge support for life-saving services and ultimately end domestic violence once and for all."

About The Allstate Foundation Domestic Violence Program
The Allstate Foundation's Domestic Violence Program helps domestic violence survivors overcome economic challenges and lead financially independent lives, free from abuse. Through a partnership with the National Network to End Domestic Violence, the program provides a network of financial resources, including a comprehensive financial empowerment curriculum; funds direct services, including education and job training assistance; and spreads the word on how to empower those touched by domestic and economic abuse. For more information and to find out how to help, visit www.ClickToEmpower.org.

About the National Network to End Domestic Violence
The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), a 501(c)(3) organization, is a leading voice for domestic violence victims and their allies. Its members include the 56 state and territorial coalitions against domestic and sexual violence. To learn more about NNEDV, please visit www.nnedv.org.

About Cheryl Burke
With over 18 years dancing experience and several championship titles under her belt, professional dancer Cheryl Burke has tangoed and sambaed her way into the hearts of millions through the hit ABC television show "Dancing with the Stars." To learn more about Cheryl Burke, please visit www.strictlycheryl.com

About Judge Jeanine Pirro
Judge Jeanine Pirro is a highly respected former District Attorney and county judge, elected politician, sought-after legal commentator, author, champion of women's rights, and mother of two. She now brings her many years of professional and life experience to the daytime television court genre as an Emmy nominated TV court Judge. To learn more about Judge Pirro, please visit www.JudgeJP.com.

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¹Murphy Marketing Research, The Allstate Foundation: Crisis: Economics and Domestic Violence. June 2009.

Social Responsibility: Allstate/UNCF "Quotes for Education" Wants to Raise $100,000 for African-American College Students Under Financial Stress

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:42:56 -0500

Fundraising initiative to benefit UNCF, contribute to college scholarships this upcoming fall semester
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According to a recent study, two-thirds of African-Americans dropping out of college cite finances as the reason for the decision. To address this trend and continue the company's history of investment in initiatives that strengthen communities, Allstate Insurance Company (NYSE: ALL) today announced the launch of the second annual "Quotes for Education" program.

In partnership with UNCF - the United Negro College Fund - the program seeks to raise $100,000 in scholarships for African-American college students.

As part of the campaign, Allstate will donate $5 to UNCF for each auto insurance quote that is completed between August 15 and September 30, 2010. Quotes may be obtained online at Allstate.com/quotesforeducation or through a participating Allstate Agent.

"The Allstate family recognizes the importance of education and we realize that now, more than ever, it is important to support organizations that champion the pursuit of higher learning and academic success," says Anise Wiley-Little, Allstate chief diversity officer. "In addition to supporting a trusted community partner like UNCF, we're also pleased that this program engages families and communities as part of the solution. By completing an auto insurance quote, drivers join with us in helping to make college education a reality for hard-working students."

Persistent funding deficits, a struggling economy, and significant tuition increases have created a perfect storm for many students, and African-American students are particularly vulnerable. Consider these facts:

African-American students who did not enroll in college are likely to report that the need to work was important in their decision. Almost half of African-American students stated that the need to work was "extremely" or "very" important, compared with their peers (Institute for Higher Education Policy, 2010)
About 46 percent of all African-American undergraduate students receive federal Pell Grant awards, accounting for approximately one-quarter of all recipients (Institute for Higher Education Policy, 2010)
Twenty years ago, the maximum value of the Pell Grant covered 52 percent of a student's cost of attendance; in 2006, the maximum grant covered about 32 percent of the cost of attendance (College Board, 2007)
Only 41 percent of black students complete a bachelor's degree within six years (National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education, 2008)
About 27 percent of all black students graduated with at least $30,500 in student loan debt, while the percentage range of students of other races who graduated with a comparable debt level is 9 percent to 16 percent (College Board Advocacy & Policy Center, 2010)

Quotes for Education is another example of Allstate's longstanding commitment to education and support of the African-American community. Supporting Quotes for Education is as simple as Click, Quote and Support:

Click (or Call): Customers will help Allstate reach its $100,000 UNCF fundraising goal by obtaining an auto insurance quote. Participants can take part:
- Online – visit Allstate.com/quotesforeducation
- Mobile – text "ALLSTATE" to 89074
- Phone – call Allstate at 1-866-998-2188

Quote: Receive an auto insurance quote from Allstate between August 15 and September 30, 2010.

Support: For each auto insurance quote provided during the Quotes for Education campaign, Allstate will donate $5 to the UNCF up to $100,000.

"We are grateful for Allstate's commitment to education," said Michael Lomax, Ph.D., UNCF president and CEO. "The young people whose college studies will be supported by Allstate's Quotes for Education program are students today, but tomorrow they are the teachers, doctors, scientists, public servants—and insurance agents—who will lead our communities and our country."

About UNCF
UNCF--the United Negro College Fund--is the nation's largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students' education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 39 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding 18 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at over 900 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste."® Learn more at www.UNCF.org.

Social Responsibility: Allstate Issues 2009 Social Responsibility Report

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 14:37:00 -0500

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Allstate Insurance Company, (NYSE: ALL), announced today the release of its 2009 social responsibility report, "When Good Hands® People Give Back..." at Allstate.com.

The annual accounting of the company's corporate citizenship presents the facts, figures and faces behind Allstate's commitment to responsible business practices, community involvement and social impact.

"Allstate's enduring commitment to social responsibility pays dividends for our customers, investors, employees and communities. It also reflects the founding mission on which our business was built-helping others when they need it most." said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president, public social responsibility for Allstate. "This Social Responsibility Report is Allstate's report card on how well we are meeting our responsibility to society."

For the first time Allstate is using the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) framework - the world's leading standard for social responsibility reporting.

The report, presented in electronic format only through a customizable PDF and companion Web site, balances the data-intensive requirements of GRI with a compelling narrative, demonstrating Allstate's commitment to being an outstanding corporate citizen through a focus on:

Responsible Business Practices - reinventing the way Allstate runs its business by focusing on doing what's right while becoming more efficient and reducing expenses.

Community Involvement - Allstate invests time, talent and resources in local communities, addressing critical needs and building partnerships that strengthen individuals, families and organizations.

Social Impact - The Allstate Foundation signature programs deliver breakthrough solutions to help overcome challenging societal issues like reducing teen driving deaths and enabling survivors of domestic violence to lead productive, independent lives.

Click here to read the report in its entirety or to customize your own PDF version by selecting sections of the report to view and share.

Click here to view Allstate and The Allstate Foundation's economic impact in each state.

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Contact:

Raleigh Floyd
(847) 402-5600

Social Responsibility: Financial Literacy Takes “Saving” to a New Level When it Comes to Domestic Violence

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 18:21:56 -0500

Key to Saving Domestic Violence Survivors from Abusive Lives is Financial Independence
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Research shows that domestic violence survivors are more likely to leave abusive relationships if they are financially independent. In light of this, The Allstate Foundation is recognizing National Financial Literacy Month this April by offering free financial literacy resources to help domestic violence survivors live safer and more secure lives.

A survivor's decision to stay in an abusive situation is based more on concerns about economic dependency rather than their physical safety, according to available research. ¹ Often domestic violence victims suffer economic abuse, which is a control tactic used by abusers to block access to money, prohibit victims from getting or keeping jobs, destroying victims' credit and other tactics that limit their ability to break free and survive financially.

"Programs focused on teaching women financial skills positively impact domestic violence survivors' lives," said Michele Coleman Mayes, Allstate Senior Vice President and General Counsel. "As a leading financial services provider, we can apply the same principles we share with customers to empower survivors to become financially independent,"

For the past three years, The Allstate Foundation, in partnership with the National Network to End Domestic Violence, has been doing just that through its Moving Ahead Through Financial Management curriculum, a comprehensive financial educational toolkit focused on building and enhancing financial skills. Rutgers University Center on Violence Against Women and Children recently evaluated The Allstate Foundation program to determine its impact on domestic violence survivors. Of the survivors who used the curriculum, this university research showed:

94% were no longer living with their abusive partner
88% set financial goals for themselves
76% created a budget
71% began paying off their debt

"We found that survivors who used The Allstate Foundation's Moving Ahead curriculum not only reported increases in economic empowerment, economic self-sufficiency and financial literacy, but they also had lower levels of post-traumatic stress and depression," said Judy Postmus, Assistant Professor and Director of Rutgers University Center on Violence Against Women and Children. "The Moving Ahead curriculum provides financial tools for survivors that go beyond crisis prevention and help survivors learn to start a new life free from abuse."

Economic Abuse Education Essential in Financial Literacy and Combating Domestic Violence

The Moving Ahead curriculum features information to help navigate basic to complex financial issues, from understanding financial abuse and financial fundamentals to building a strong financial base. Also available in free hard copy, Spanish-language or DVD formats, the curriculum identifies community resources to help survivors enhance their skills, find jobs, build careers and save money for education, to start a business or to buy a home.

The Allstate Foundation has additional resources available at www.ClickToEmpower.org where visitors can learn more about domestic violence and how they can help someone in need:

Take an interactive "What kind of gal pal are you?" quiz to find out their personality style and how to use it to combat domestic violence
Learn about the signs of economic abuse and tips to help those in need
Download the free Moving Ahead Through Financial Management curriculum and view the interactive financial literacy e-learning modules.

Designed for survivors from all backgrounds and earning powers, the Moving Ahead curriculum provides key financial lessons on budgeting, saving, building credit and managing debt. A recent Allstate-National Journal Heartland Monitor Poll found that 81% of Americans indicated that they need help to better manage their finances. These statistics underscore the need for all Americans, not just domestic violence survivors, to learn about financial literacy and economic abuse.

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. Allstate and The Allstate Foundation sponsor community initiatives to promote safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment. The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream.

About the Economics Against Abuse Program
The Allstate Foundation Economics Against Abuse Program helps domestic violence survivors build their financial independence to get free and stay free from abuse.Seeing a significant gap in resources designed to assist survivors with economic challenges, The Allstate Foundation took action and partnered with the National Network to End Domestic Violence to create this comprehensive program.Economics Against Abuse provides resources, funds direct services and spreads the word on how to empower those touched by domestic and economic abuse. For more information and to find out how to help, visit www.ClickToEmpower.org.

About the Rutgers University Evaluation
The Rutgers University Center on Violence Against Women & Children evaluated the process and impact of the implementation of The Allstate Foundation Moving Ahead through Financial Management curriculum. The evaluation included three rounds of data collection from May 2008 to August 2009 in which information was gathered during in-person interviews with survivors to measure improvements in economic self-sufficiency, mental health and quality of life levels, use of the curriculum, and their ability to obtain community resources. The analysis also included careful review of policies and procedures for the curriculum, followed by interviews with key stakeholders including administrators, supervisors, and advocates at 11 different sites around the country.

¹"Integrating Asset-Building Strategies into Domestic Violence Advocacy," Clearinghouse REVIEW Journal of Poverty Law and Policy, July-August 2009

Contact:

Kyle Donash
The Allstate Foundation
847-402-7893
kdonb@allstate.com

Ginger Werner
Zeno for The Allstate Foundation
312-396-9766
ginger.werner@zenogroup.com

Social Responsibility: Allstate Awarded Prestigious LEED® Building Certification

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:28:56 -0500

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Allstate Insurance Company, the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer, announced today that its new data center in Rochelle, Illinois has been awarded LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI).

LEED is the nation's preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.

The Allstate facility, which opened in 2009, is one of the few mission-critical data centers in America to receive the Gold designation from USGBC. It's a key component of a larger strategy to reduce the number of Allstate data centers to two by the end of 2010 and to increase power efficiency and computing capacity.

"As part of Allstate's promise to be there for our customers in their time of need, we're dedicated to ensuring high availability of critical technology systems," said Catherine Brune, senior vice president and chief information officer of Allstate. "It's designed from the ground up to maximize computing capacity and minimize environmental impact."

Allstate's data center achieved LEED Gold certification for incorporating a variety of sustainable technology, design and construction strategies that positively impact the project itself and the broader community, including:

Leading edge hardware and more efficient virtualization software that cut the space and power computers use in half;
An environmental system that blends heat from computers, outside air and mechanical equipment to keep office areas comfortable and equipment rooms cool;
A white roof to reflect rather than absorb heat;
Glass outside office walls to take advantage of natural light;
Concrete made from recycled materials; and
Native landscaping requiring no irrigation and minimal maintenance.

By using less energy and water, LEED certified buildings save money for families, businesses and taxpayers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers and the community at large.

"The green building movement offers an unprecedented opportunity to respond to the most important challenges of our time, including global climate change, dependence on nonsustainable and expensive sources of energy and threats to human health," said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. "The work of innovative building projects such as Allstate's data center is a fundamental driving force in the green building movement."

Allstate has two LEED APs on staff, and two other Allstate-owned facilities in Illinois that have undergone retro-commissioning reviews based on LEED criteria. A number of energy conservation and greenhouse gas reduction measures at those facilities and across Allstate are currently underway.

Allstate annually discloses its carbon footprint via the Carbon Disclosure Project questionnaire, and in 2009 Allstate was named to the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index for both the S&P 500 and the Global 500.

About the Allstate Corporation
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help more than 17 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

About the U.S. Green Building Council
The Washington, D.C.-based U.S. Green Building Council is committed to a prosperous and sustainable future for our nation through cost-efficient and energy-saving green buildings. With a community comprising 78 local affiliates, more than 18,000 member companies and organizations, and more than 140,000 LEED Professional Credential holders, USGBC is the driving force of an industry that is projected to contribute $554 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product from 2009-2013. USGBC leads an unlikely diverse constituency of builders and environmentalists, corporations and nonprofit organizations, elected officials and concerned citizens, and teachers and students. Buildings in the United States are responsible for 39% of CO2 emissions, 40% of energy consumption, 13% water consumption and 15% of GDP per year, making green building a source of significant economic and environmental opportunity. Greater building efficiency can meet 85% of future U.S. demand for energy, and a national commitment to green building has the potential to generate 2.5 million American jobs.

About LEED
The U.S. Green Building Council's LEED green building certification system is the foremost program for the design, construction and operation of green buildings. Over 35,000 projects are currently participating in the LEED system, comprising over 6.9 billion square feet of construction space in all 50 states and 114 countries. By using less energy, LEED-certified buildings save money for families, businesses and taxpayers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers and the larger community. USGBC was co-founded by current President and CEO Rick Fedrizzi, who spent 25 years as a Fortune 500 executive. Under his 15-year leadership, the organization has become the preeminent green building, membership, policy, standards, influential, education and research organization in the nation. For more information, visit www.usgbc.org.

Contact:

David Steck
(847) 402-5600

Social Responsibility: The Allstate Foundation Responds to Growing Need For Haitian Relief

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:40:00 -0600

Funding for onsite relief efforts; Allstate employees and Agency owners also giving
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Recognizing the urgent need for aid to Haiti, today The Allstate Foundation has made a $100,000 donation to the American Red Cross to assist with humanitarian relief efforts.

Additionally, with Allstate employees and Agency owners wanting a way to give to the relief efforts in Haiti, the Foundation has created the donation Web site http://american.redcross.org/allstate-emp in partnership with the American Red Cross that allows employees to make a personal donation directly to the relief organization. The Foundation will match every dollar that employees contribute up to an additional $200,000, for a total commitment of up to $300,000.

"We are an organization made up of people who truly care and help those in need," said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president for Public Social Responsibility at Allstate. "Just as we would help our customers in their time of need, we are reaching out a hand to the victims in Haiti whose lives have been uprooted by this catastrophic earthquake."

The Foundation's donation is part of Allstate's annual charitable and philanthropic contributions that totaled more than $18 million in 2009 to communities across the United States.

About The Allstate Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). The Allstate Foundation sponsors community initiatives to promote "safe and vital communities;" "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity;" and "economic empowerment." The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream. For additional information, visit www.Allstate.com/foundation.

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Contact:

David Steck
(847) 402-5600

Social Responsibility: Chicago Children's Museum, Chicago Fire Department and The Allstate Foundation Unveil Revitalized Play It Safe Exhibit

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:37:16 -0600

New Interactive Environment Aims to Save Lives Through Fire Safety Education
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Each year in the United States an estimated 2,800 children age 14 or younger are injured and 850 are killed in residential fires according to the U.S. Fire Administration. To help address this important issue, Chicago Children's Museum (CCM), the Chicago Fire Department and The Allstate Foundation today unveiled The Allstate Foundation Presents Play It Safe-a new permanent exhibit that encourages children and families to step into the shoes of a firefighter for a day and explore fire safety through imaginative play.

"As we enter the winter months when fires in the home are more frequent, this is the perfect time to unveil the revitalized Play It Safe exhibit," said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president, Allstate Insurance Company. "Allstate's support of Play It Safe brings to life our ongoing commitment to foster safe communities. We're so proud of this exhibit because it gives children and families realistic, fun, hands-on, playful ways to better understand fire safety and help prevent unnecessary injuries or deaths."

Inspired by visits to real Chicago firehouses and developed in collaboration with the Chicago Fire Department, the new Play It Safe exhibit features an authentic-looking firehouse where children and families can take calls and dispatch trucks at a command center, dress up like a firefighter, slide down a fire pole, sound the siren in a fire truck and practice escaping a "smoke-filled" room in the "Get Low and Go" bedroom. Through this range of exciting activities, children will learn life-saving lessons about fire safety. The grand reopening of the 2010 Play It Safe exhibit is Thursday, December 3rd, at 9 a.m.

"Studies show that children learn and retain information better through exploration and imaginative play-and the newly renovated Play It Safe exhibit addresses the serious issue of fire safety in a playful, educational setting," said Jennifer Farrington, President and CEO, Chicago Children's Museum. "At CCM, we're committed to providing valuable experiences that tackle tough issues."

During the development stages of the new Play It Safe exhibit, Chicago Children's Museum utilized extensive research and best practices in child development, informal learning, and safety education to ensure that the exhibit provides age-appropriate experiences for children to explore fire safety and incorporates resources to help parents, caregivers and children explore fire safety beyond the museum visit. The Chicago Fire Department also provided a critical role by not only providing actual firehouse artifacts, input on design and key messaging, but also training Chicago Children's Museum staff and program facilitators on how to best teach and communicate critical fire safety techniques.

"We hope that through our support of the exhibit, we'll be able to provide kids and adults with important fire safety messages and techniques that they can practice at home," said Chicago Fire Commissioner John Brooks. "Over the last decade our partnership has brought home the crucial safety messages children need to learn, and will carry with them the rest of their lives."

According to recent data from the National Fire Protection Association (2008), 83 percent of all civilian fire fatalities occur within the home. With an estimated 2.5 million children, parents, caregivers and children visiting the exhibit since its inception seven years ago, Play It Safe will continue to have an impact well beyond the walls of the museum. A Survive Alive Safe Exit program offered throughout the year will give families a unique opportunity to practice how to escape their home in an emergency using multisensory effects to simulate a real fire. A free take-home caregiver guide will also offer additional tips on ways families can practice fire safety tips at home.

The newly renovated Play It Safe exhibit is a result of a ground-breaking partnership between Allstate, the Chicago Fire Department and Chicago Children's Museum, and will continue as a permanent exhibit daily, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., and on Kraft Free Family Nights--Thursday evenings from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. (free admission for all visitors).

About Chicago Children's Museum
The mission of Chicago Children's Museum is to create a community where play and learning connect. CCM is the only cultural institution in the city dedicated to young children and the important adults in their lives. Playful experiences, including over fifteen interactive exhibits and programming spaces, tap into how kids learn, and engage them at an early age so they develop a lifelong love of learning. Located at Navy Pier, Chicago's number one attraction at 700 East Grand Avenue, CCM is the final stop for CTA buses #29, #65, #66 and #124. For more information, please visit www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/hours.html.

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Allstate and The Allstate Foundation sponsor community initiatives to promote "safe and vital communities;" "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity;" and "economic empowerment." The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream. For additional information, visit www.Allstate.com/foundation.

Media Contacts:
David Steck
Allstate Insurance Company
Ph: 847-402-5600

Amie DeLuca
For Allstate Insurance Company
Ph: 630-315-2962

Natalie Kreiger
Chicago Children's Museum
Ph: 312-464-7727

Social Responsibility: Allstate to Once Again Encourage Volunteerism on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:10:15 -0600

Allstate honoring four 'Heroes' who best represent the ideals of Dr. King through giving back in their communities
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Allstate Insurance Company today announced it is once again encouraging volunteerism on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, to be observed in cities across the country on January 18, 2010. As part of the company's recognition of Dr. King's vision and its own commitment to volunteerism, Allstate is also honoring four African-American volunteers who generously serve their communities through extensive volunteer efforts and continuously make a positive impact in their neighborhoods.

Lucy Hall-Gainer from Atlanta, Xavier Jefferies from Charlotte, N.C., Marquis Smith from Washington, D.C., and Deanna Woods from Chicago have been designated as the inaugural Allstate Give Back Day Heroes. Each has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to making positive contributions in their communities through volunteering their time and effort to important causes.

"Allstate Give Back Day reinforces the importance of giving back to your community and this year we're excited to recognize four special individuals who demonstrate a commitment to volunteerism and giving back just as Martin Luther King, Jr. did," said Anise Wiley-Little, assistant vice president and chief diversity officer for Allstate. "We hope their stories inspire people to put their 'good hands' to good work in their own neighborhoods, not just on Give Back Day but throughout the year."

As part of their recognition, each Hero will attend the King Center's "Salute to Greatness" Awards Banquet in Atlanta on January 16, 2010 alongside Allstate chairman, president and chief executive officer, Tom Wilson. Allstate will be presented with the "Salute to Greatness" Award on behalf of the company's ongoing dedication to the principles and philosophy of Dr. King during the reception. Each Hero will participate in an Allstate volunteer event in their hometown alongside Allstate employees and local citizens on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Allstate is encouraging citizens interested in participating in Give Back Day on January 18, 2010 to visit BeyondFebruary.com to find volunteer opportunities in their communities. This interactive Web site links to VolunteerMatch, an online search engine that promotes volunteerism and civic engagement by matching volunteers with charitable organizations and non-profits. VolunteerMatch contains thousands of volunteer opportunities in communities all across the country. Additionally, visitors to the Web site can view profiles of the four Give Back Day Heroes and learn about their community involvement through a series of video interviews and blog posts.

Allstate is continuing to collaborate with the King Center in Atlanta to celebrate its second annual Allstate Give Back Day initiative by hosting a volunteer rally after the annual commemorative service honoring Dr. King at Ebenezer Baptist Church on the morning of January 18, 2010. To reinforce the company's commitment to giving back, Allstate also is mobilizing Give Back Day events in markets across the country, to reinforce the dedication that Dr. King had to giving back to the community with a wide range of projects.

"Allstate has truly stepped up by creating Give Back Day, an outstanding volunteer initiative that embodies the spirit of my father and everything he fought for," said Bernice King, Dr. King's youngest daughter. "But an even greater tribute to my father's legacy is evidenced by the people, like the Give Back Day Heroes, who demonstrate the commitment to serve their communities throughout the year, not just on MLK Day."

More about the 2010 Allstate Give Back Day Heroes:

Lucy Hall-Gainer - Atlanta, Ga.
For more than a decade, Lucy Hall-Gainer has assisted troubled women in Atlanta by providing them with a safe haven - the Mary Hall Freedom House (MHFH), named in memory of Hall- Gainer's mother. As the organization's CEO, she has helped more than 2,500 women beat addiction and become self-sufficient individuals. Hall-Gainer established MHFH with just $5,000, two apartments and two employees in 1996. Today, MHFH has over 50 apartments and 70 employees to accommodate distressed women and their children. At age six, Hall- Gainer watched her mother die of alcoholism, inspiring her life-long commitment to helping others. An addict herself for 10 years, Hall-Gainer sought help and guidance to eventually end her reliance on drugs and alcohol. With several years of experience working with nonprofits, Hall-Gainer is now living her dream of empowering women and their children to break the cycle of addiction, poverty and homelessness, offering that same helping hand with MHFH.

Xavier Jefferies - Charlotte, N.C.
At only 17 years of age, high school student Xavier Jefferies has done more for his community than most people do in a lifetime. Jefferies' extensive volunteer efforts include donating his time to the local YMCA's after-school daycare, where he tutors children in an effort to help them advance in both academics and athletics. He is the founder and president of the Kick Back Crew, a philanthropic youth group dedicated to beautifying Rockwell Park through a variety of community service initiatives. Jefferies spends his summers at the YMCA Blue Ridge Leaders' School training teens to become leaders in physical education and annually attends the Young Black Men's conference with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of life in his community. Recognized in 2009 by The Charlotte Observer for his outstanding commitment to his Rockwell Park neighborhood, Jefferies was also honored with the 2009 Charlotte Neighborhood Youth Award. It was the second consecutive year he received the award.

Marquis Smith - Washington, D.C.
All his life, Marquis Smith has embraced the need for people to give back to their communities, and he took his mission of service one step further when he joined the Army. Upon his return from a three-year tour of duty, Smith compiled more than 600 hours of volunteerism as an AmeriCorps Jumpstart corps member. Today, he continues his community outreach as a student at Howard University. An education major, Smith is involved with "Library Makeover," an organization that helps renovate and build libraries in deprived neighborhoods. Smith also interns at the Heart of America Foundation promoting literacy and volunteerism. In his free time, Smith lends a hand to Washington, D.C.'s Sunday Suppers program where he helps prepare and serve more than 200 meals for the homeless on a bi-weekly basis. In 2006, shortly after Hurricane Katrina, Smith organized a clothing drive for the homeless in his former hometown of Baton Rouge, La., and collected over 3,500 items in just one month. Smith later organized a toy drive for low-income families in the city, donating more than 1,300 new toys to Toys 4 Tots, local churches and families.

Deanna Woods - Chicago, Ill.
In March 2006, Deanna Woods' niece, Seritha White, 10, was killed by a stray bullet in her West Englewood, Ill., home as her family was celebrating a birthday party. It was this horrific tragedy that launched Woods into a life of giving back to her community. The incident inspired Woods to create the 68th and Marshfield Block Club and become an ambassador for Teamwork Englewood, an organization founded to promote community development. Along with more than 50 other members living near the same city block in Englewood, Woods, who serves as club president, challenges community issues such as drug dealing and gun violence. Woods is part of community policing with a mission to negotiate with gang members that they stay out of certain areas. Known in her neighborhood as the aunt of "Englewood angel" Seritha White, she has become a surrogate mother to the children of West Englewood who are looking for a trusted friend. With a focus on children's safety and growth, Woods' community work has been recognized by Local Initiatives Support Corporation /Chicago when it named her one of 25 community heroes in 2006.

Contact:
Raleigh Floyd
Allstate
(847) 402-5600

Bates Grainger
Taylor
(704) 548-8556

Social Responsibility: Financial Empowerment Grants Aid Survivors of Domestic Violence

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 07:10:00 -0600

The Allstate Foundation Domestic Violence Program Awards $635,000
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In the face of today's economic crisis and skyrocketing jobless rates, The Allstate Foundation is stepping up efforts to ease the financial burdens of domestic violence survivors with $635,000 in new economic empowerment grants for statewide coalitions against domestic violence in eleven states.

The grants will be used to support a variety of local programs focused on developing strategies to move survivors of abuse toward financial independence. The grantees' work will center on financial literacy, Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) and job readiness activities.

"People often think of the physical bruises associated with domestic violence, but the financial devastation that results from an abusive relationship can also be especially crippling," said Jennifer Kuhn, Program Manager with The Allstate Foundation. "Our goal is to work with advocates through statewide and local initiatives, to help survivors build financial skills which are critical during these financially turbulent times."

The Allstate Foundation's Economics Against Abuse program has provided more than $12 million in funding to national and state domestic violence organizations since its launch in 2005.

"Our partnership with The Allstate Foundation has been instrumental in helping survivors achieve financial independence, " said Sue Else, President of the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV). "The Allstate Foundation has provided critical resources and financial support to create innovative programs that directly help victims overcome the tough economic challenges of beginning a new life, free from abuse."

In addition to efforts by The Allstate Foundation and NNEDV, FICO, a leading proponent of consumer credit empowerment, has stepped in to provide support for survivors to help them surmount the financial hurdles often encountered when leaving abusive relationships. FICO is donating 500 free FICO scores for survivors involved with the Economic Empowerment Grant Program. The FICO credit score is a snapshot of how lenders view consumer credit profiles; the higher the score, the lower the risk to lenders. Tools such as FICO scores and financial education lessen the initial fear of being out on one's own and maintaining a certain level of care for the survivor's family.

Part of moving beyond an abusive relationship involves declaring financial independence—which means establishing one's own, independent credit history," said Shon Dellinger, vice president of consumer services for FICO. "In addition to their FICO scores, which provide a snapshot of that history, survivors will learn about the factors impacting their credit profiles and information to understand their FICO scores from our award-winning credit resource, myFICO.com. Understanding this information is the ticket to more favorable terms on credit cards, automobile loans, and mortgages—elements of financial success for survivors and their families."

Domestic violence survivors often face significant financial barriers stemming from abuse. These problems are heightened in times of economic downturn, making it increasingly difficult to escape abusive relationships. Many survivors are prohibited from entering the workforce or pursuing a higher education and job training activities because of their abusers. Abusers often use financial control to keep victims in abusive relationships, including destroying a victim's credit score or running up high debts.

The 11 new economic empowerment grants were awarded to the following statewide coalitions against domestic violence, to enhance already existing economic empowerment programs or build new ones throughout their respective states:

Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $50,000
Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $50,000
Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $75,000
Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $25,000
Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence awarded $52,000
Kentucky Domestic Violence Association awarded $90,000
New Jersey Coalition for Battered Women awarded $50,000
Ohio Domestic Violence Network awarded $50,000
Texas Council on Family Violence awarded $50,000
Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence awarded $63,000
Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $80,000

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Allstate and The Allstate Foundation sponsor community initiatives to promote "safe and vital communities;" "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity;" and "economic empowerment." The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream.

About the Economics Against Abuse Program
The Allstate Foundation created the Economics Against Abuse Program to help domestic violence survivors overcome economic challenges and lead financially independent lives, free from abuse. Through a partnership with the National Network to End Domestic Violence, the program provides a network of financial resources, including a comprehensive financial empowerment curriculum; funds direct services, including education and job training assistance; and spreads the word on how to empower those touched by domestic and economic abuse. For more information and to find out how to help, visit www.ClickToEmpower.org.

About the National Network to End Domestic Violence
The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), a 501©(3) non-profit organization, is a leading voice for domestic violence victims and their allies. Its members include the 56 state and territorial coalitions against domestic violence. It works closely with them to understand the needs of domestic violence victims and service providers. NNEDV has been a premiere national organization advancing the movement against domestic violence for the past 15 years, after leading efforts among domestic violence experts and survivors in urging Congress to pass the landmark Violence Against Women Act of 1994. To learn more about NNEDV, please visit www.nnedv.org.

About FICO
FICO (NYSE:FICO) transforms business by making every decision count. FICO's Decision Management solutions combine trusted advice, world-class analytics and innovative applications to give organizations the power to automate, improve and connect decisions across their business. Clients in 80 countries work with FICO to increase customer loyalty and profitability, cut fraud losses, manage credit risk, meet regulatory and competitive demands, and rapidly build market share. FICO also helps millions of individuals manage their credit health through the www.myFICO.com website.

Contacts:
Kyle Donash
The Allstate Foundation
(847) 402-7893

Social Responsibility: Chicago Children's Museum, Museum of Science and Industry and Allstate Insurance Company Team Up to Create "Wonder" Among Our City's Youth

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:36:11 -0600

Partnership Focused on Reinforcing the Value of Science Education
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Allstate Insurance Company, the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer, Chicago Children's Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry today announced the second year of Wonder Kids, a collaborative partnership focused on addressing the value of science education.

The Wonder Kids initiative, funded by Allstate, is a collaboration between the Chicago's Children's Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry aimed at instilling a love of science among Chicago area youth.

"We're excited to be a part of this partnership that brings together two great Chicago organizations dedicated to exploring science. Our goal with Wonder Kids is to make science fun and show kids how it can be incorporated into their daily lives," said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president, Allstate Insurance Company.

A highlight of the partnership is the development of Wonder Kids, an annual interactive science event scheduled for November 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Museum of Science and Industry. Fun and interactive science experiments created jointly by educators from both museums will teach children how their minds and bodies work. Visitors to Wonder Kids will also receive tips on how families can create and instill "wonder" at home all year long.

"The programming Chicago Children's Museum created for Wonder Kids provides playful experiences that tap into how children learn, and engages them at an early age so they develop a lifelong love of science learning," said Jennifer Farrington, President and CEO, Chicago Children's Museum. "This effort is an essential part of our mission and is reflected in the ongoing development of our partnership with Allstate and the Museum of Science and Industry."

Through the collaboration between the Chicago Children's Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry, museum members receive enhanced event opportunities and museum staff benefit from additional training.

"Wonder Kids is designed to stir children's curiosity about how the world works and to inspire and motivate them to reach for their full potential when it comes to learning science, technology, medicine and engineering," said David Mosena, President and CEO of the Museum of Science and Industry. "It's a shining example of how a public and private partnership can be beneficial to the city and its residents."

About Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry's mission is to inspire the inventive genius in everyone by presenting captivating and compelling experiences that are real and educational. Located at 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive, the Museum is open every day of the year except December 25. The Museum is supported in part through the generosity of the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, visit the Museum's Web site at www.msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414 or (800) GO-TO-MSI outside of the Chicago area.

About Chicago Children's Museum
The mission of Chicago Children's Museum is to create a community where play and learning connect. CCM is the only cultural institution in the city dedicated to young children and the important adults in their lives. Playful experiences, including over fifteen interactive exhibits and programming spaces, tap into how kids learn, and engage them at an early age so they develop a lifelong love of learning. For more information, please visit www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

About Allstate Corporation
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help more than 17 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Media Contacts:

David Steck
Allstate Insurance Company
847-402-5600

Amie DeLuca
For Allstate Insurance Company
Ph: 630-315-2962

Natalie Kreiger
Chicago Children's Museum
Ph: 312-464-7727

Julie Parente
Museum of Science and Industry
Ph: 773-753-6249

Social Responsibility: Allstate Foundation and Oscar-Winning Actress Mira Sorvino Ask Americans to Help End Domestic Violence

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:58:00 -0500

Women's Business Suit Drive at Allstate Agencies to Benefit Domestic Violence Victims
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Today, more than 70 percent of Americans know someone who has experienced domestic violence and yet few feel comfortable talking about it. In an effort to break the silence, Academy Award-winning actress Mira Sorvino is joining forces with The Allstate Foundation to urge Americans to talk for a change and "Tell a Gal P.A.L." to help end their domestic violence.

"From my volunteer work helping women who have been victimized to my selection of movie roles,
I'm committed to raising awareness about this issue," said Ms. Sorvino, who portrays a battered woman in an upcoming movie drama scheduled for release in 2010. "I joined The Allstate Foundation's Tell a Gal P.A.L. campaign because I believe it's imperative that we work together to empower women to speak up and find the help they need to free themselves from abuse."

As part of the Tell a Gal P.A.L. campaign, The Allstate Foundation will also continue its efforts against a lesser known element of domestic violence -- economics abuse, which is when abusers control victims' finances in an effort to prevent them from leaving.

"We are helping survivors who often find themselves with limited means for daily survival, let alone the means to get back into the workforce and attain financial security," said Jennifer Kuhn, Economics Against Abuse Program Manager, The Allstate Foundation. "As a Fortune 100 company, Allstate sees an opportunity to leverage its financial services expertise to impact survivors of economic abuse."

In addition, the Foundation today encouraged Americans to donate, at select Allstate agencies across the country from September 28th until October 9th, nearly new women's business suits and professional attire to benefit victims. The donated clothes will be given to local domestic violence programs and Dress for Success affiliates to outfit survivors with confidence as they interview for jobs on their way to economic stability.

The official list of suit donation locations is available at ClickToEmpower.org where Americans can also get more information about how to help domestic violence survivors overcome economic challenges, lead financially independent lives, and become free from abuse. And as part of October's National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, people may also click on youtube.com/allstate to watch special video messages about domestic violence and economic empowerment from Ms. Sorvino and The Allstate Foundation. Domestic violence victims in need of immediate assistance are encouraged to click on The National Domestic Violence Hotline or call 1-800-799-SAFE.

The Foundation's Tell a Gal P.A.L. campaign was designed to help Americans Pass it On, Act and Learn (P.A.L.) to start the conversation:

Pass It On-Talk freely about domestic violence to break the taboo. Tell others that economic abuse is a part of domestic violence.
Act-Never underestimate how small acts, like listening, can make a big difference.
Learn- Empower yourself with knowledge and resources available to help yourself, or someone you know, out of an abusive relationship.

The Tell a Gal P.A.L. campaign also encourages people to "Talk for a Change" about Domestic Violence. Personal stories of how a survivor overcame abuse, or stories of people serving as a "Gal Pal" to a friend in need will serve as inspiration for others to either learn about domestic violence, share information on how to start the conversation or provide encouragement to take the first step out the door. The first 100 people who share their story at ClickToEmpower.org will receive a limited edition Tell a Gal P.A.L. T-shirt.

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Allstate and The Allstate Foundation sponsor community initiatives to promote "safe and vital communities;" "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity;"and "economic empowerment." The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream. For additional information, visit www.ClickToEmpower.org.

About Mira Sorvino
Mira Sorvino won an Academy Award and Golden Globe Award for her role in "Mighty Aphrodite," as well as a Golden Globe Award nomination for her performance in Christian Duguay's miniseries "Human Trafficking." She will next be seen in Jon Gunn's upcoming drama, "Like Dandelion Dust," where she portrays a battered woman. In addition to her acting work, Mira is the United Nations Goodwill Ambassador to Combat Human Trafficking for the Office on Drugs and Crime and is the official ambassador for Amnesty International's "Stop Violence Against Women" program. She has lobbied Congress on human trafficking as well as the atrocities in Darfur, Sudan.

About Dress for Success
Dress for Success is an international not-for-profit organization with the mission to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support, and a network of support to help them thrive in work and in life. Since starting operations in 1997, Dress for Success has expanded to more than 90 locations in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Poland and the U.K. To date, Dress for Success has helped more than 500,000 women work towards self-sufficiency. Visit www.dressforsuccess.org to learn more.

	Allstate: Mira Sorvino Speaks Out
	Allstate: Jenissee's Story
	Allstate: Everyday Heroes
	Allstate: Women Empowering Women
	Allstate: Men Who Help
	Allstate: What is a Gal P.A.L.?

Contact:
Jennifer McGrath
The Allstate Foundation
847-402-7805
Jennifer.McGrath@allstate.com

Ginger Werner
Zeno for The Allstate Foundation
312-396-9766
Ginger.Werner@zenogroup.com

Social Responsibility: Allstate Named to S&P 500 and Global 500 Carbon Disclosure Leadership Indices

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:45:14 -0500

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate Insurance Company announced today it has been named to the Carbon Disclosure Project's (CDP) 2009 Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index, a list of the top companies demonstrating industry leading climate change disclosure practices.

The index is a key component of CDP's annual "S&P 500 Report," with high scores indicating good internal data management and understanding of climate change related issues affecting the company.

Compiled by PricewaterhouseCoopers on behalf of CDP, the 2009 Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index is intended to provide an evaluation tool for institutional investors. It comprises the top scoring 50 companies of the S&P 500 based on analysis of the responses to CDP's 2009 Questionnaire, which focused on greenhouse gas emissions, emissions reduction targets and risks and opportunities associated with climate change.

Allstate was also named in the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index for CDP's "Global 500 Report," which highlights the constituent companies within the FTSE Global 500 Index that meet the same criteria as the S&P index.

"Allstate's focus on disclosure is the right thing to do and also makes good business sense for the company," said Vicky Dinges, Assistant Vice President, Public Social Responsibility for Allstate. "This honor is something our customers, investors, employees and agents can all feel good about."

"Companies recognized in the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index are rewarded for high quality responses to CDP, which demonstrate a good understanding of how climate change is and will continue to impact their business. Companies which control their risks today, manage their emissions and seize the opportunities to produce low carbon goods and services, will be the best placed to prosper in a low carbon economy of the future," commented Paul Dickinson, Chief Executive of the Carbon Disclosure Project.

The S&P 500 Report and the Global 500 Report including names of companies featured in the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index can be found at www.cdproject.net.

The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) is an independent not-for-profit organisation holding the largest database of corporate climate change information in the world. CDP gathers data through its annual Information Requests on behalf of institutional investors, purchasing organisations and government bodies. Since its formation in 2000, CDP has become the gold standard for carbon disclosure methodology and process, providing essential climate change data to the global market place.

Investor CDP represents some 475 institutional investors, with combined assets under management in excess of $55 trillion. CDP also works with private and public sector organizations to facilitate the collection of climate change data from their supply chains, as well as with local government to drive emissions reduction and sustainable development in key cities around the world. More than 2,500 major corporations around the globe report their greenhouse gas emissions and the risks and opportunities posed by climate change through CDP.

The Carbon Disclosure Project is a Registered Charity (no. 1122330). In the United States, CDP's sponsor liaison is Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, which provides CDP with 501©3 charitable status.

Social Responsibility: The Allstate Foundation Lets Public Decide Winner of $100,000 Grant

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:54:27 -0500

Four national non-profits compete for grand prize
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The Allstate Foundation is inviting the public to cast its vote for the recipient of a $100,000 grant through the ClickToEmpower campaign on www.ClicktoEmpower.org. The organizations competing to receive the grant share The Allstate Foundation's mission of working to end domestic violence and finding new ways to economically empower survivors. Participating organizations are Charity Cars, Family Justice Center Alliance, Safe Horizon and the YWCA.

"The Allstate Foundation selected these non-profit organizations as contenders for the grants because of their strong leadership and programming in the area of domestic violence and economic empowerment," said Jennifer Kuhn, program manager, The Allstate Foundation Economics Against Abuse program. "To help generate awareness of the great work of these organizations, we are asking the public to weigh in on who will receive the $100,000 grant."

Visitors can vote as well as learn more about each of the highlighted organizations and their domestic violence programs on the www.ClicktoEmpower.org Web site. Visitors can vote once a day during the campaign (July 15, 2009 - September 13, 2009). The organization that receives the most votes will receive a $100,000 grant and the remaining three will each receive a $10,000 grant.

Charity Cars: The original 1-800-Charity Cars provides free vehicles and vehicle support services to domestic violence survivors all across America. Reliable transportation empowers victims to leave their abusers and is a major factor in the success or failure of survivors transitioning to self-sufficiency.
National Family Justice Center Alliance: The Alliance is working to provide training and technical assistance to existing and developing Family Justice Centers in the United States and around the world. These organizations serve facilities where survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, and sexual assault can come to one location to receive all necessary services.
Safe Horizon: Safe Horizon touches the lives of over 350,000 victims of violence and moves them from crisis to confidence. As the largest provider of domestic violence programs and through the operation of hotlines in New York City, Safe Horizon helps hundreds of thousands of domestic violence survivors each year by providing them with safe shelter, clothing, food, transportation, mental health counseling, physical wellness exams, guidance through the court system, security through changing door locks, ESL courses, and counseling on financial literacy, resume building and job placement. Safe Horizon also trains thousands of executives across the country about how to protect their employees from the impact of domestic violence in the workplace with its SafeWork initiative.
YWCA: Among its many programs, YWCA is the largest provider of comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence and their children nationwide, including education and prevention programs, counseling services, emergency shelters, transitional housing, court accompaniment and child care for victims, as well as court-ordered anger management classes for offenders. YWCAs also offer economic empowerment programs for women, from financial literacy seminars to job training and GED classes. YWCA was the first women's organization founded in the United States, now celebrating 150 years of service on behalf of women and girls.

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). Allstate and The Allstate Foundation sponsor community initiatives to promote "safe and vital communities;" "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity;" and "economic empowerment." The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream. For additional information, visit www.ClickToEmpower.org.

About the Economics Against Abuse Program
The Allstate Foundation Economics Against Abuse program helps domestic violence survivors build their financial independence to get free and stay free from abuse. Seeing a significant gap in resources for programs designed to assist survivors with the economic challenges that they face, The Allstate Foundation took action and partnered with the National Network to End Domestic Violence to create a comprehensive program. Economics Against Abuse provides resources, funds direct services and spreads the word on how to empower those touched by domestic and economic abuse. For more information and to find out how to help, visit www.ClickToEmpower.org.

Contact :
Kyle Donash
The Allstate Foundation
(847)402-7893
kdonb@allstate.com

Social Responsibility: New National Poll Reveals Economic Abuse Defined Differently on Main Street than Wall Street

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 09:04:56 -0500

The Allstate Foundation responds with new financial curriculum for abuse survivors
This release contains: 1 Related Document

While 70 percent of Americans know people who are or have been victims of domestic violence, nearly the same percentage of Americans fail to see a connection between domestic violence and "economic abuse," according to a new national poll released by The Allstate Foundation.

Economic abuse is a tactic commonly used by abusers to control their victims' finances and prevent them from leaving a dangerous relationship. However, the survey also revealed nearly eight out of 10 Americans link economic abuse to Wall Street woes or irresponsible spending.

"Many people associate domestic violence with physical cuts and bruises, but bruises on your credit score and being cut off from access to money create lasting scars that make it hard, if not impossible, for abuse victims to recover," said Jennifer Kuhn, manager of the Economics Against Abuse Program at The Allstate Foundation. "For victims of domestic violence, economic abuse is much more personal - and dangerous."

To better educate Americans about this often overlooked aspect of domestic violence, The Allstate Foundation provides the following signs to recognize economic abuse:

Taking money, credit card or property from a partner without their permission
Racking up debt without a partner's knowledge
Purposely ruining a partner's credit score
Forbidding a partner from earning money or attending school
Being forced by a partner to hand over paychecks
Cancelling insurance or credit cards without the partner's knowledge
Harassing a partner at work to negatively impact a job

"A downturn in the economy impacts us all, but it disproportionately impacts the most vulnerable members of society, including domestic violence survivors," said Rene Renick, director of programs and operations at The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV). "Now more than ever it's important that domestic violence survivors build economic skills to overcome financial instability, a major barrier to escape and stay out of an abusive situation."

The Allstate Foundation, in partnership with NNEDV, recently developed a Financial Empowerment Curriculum to help victims achieve financial independence. The Financial Empowerment Curriculum includes financial tools and information designed to enable survivors of domestic abuse to fully understand their financial circumstances, as well as engage in short-term and long-term planning (e.g., budgeting tools, step-by-step planners, tips, etc.) to accomplish their personal goals.

"Our goal is to raise awareness about how economic empowerment can lead to a safe and financially secure future," said Kuhn. "With resources like the Financial Empowerment Curriculum, we're providing tools to domestic violence survivors and others who may need financial guidance in these tough economic times."

The user-friendly curriculum is available in a variety of formats, including hard copy, Spanish-language, DVD and downloadable versions at www.ClickToEmpower.org. Also available are e-learning modules to help people of all incomes and earning power work toward long-term economic empowerment.

Other national survey findings include:

More than three-quarters of Americans (76 percent) believe the poor economy has made it more difficult for victims of domestic violence, and two-thirds (66 percent) believe it has caused an increase in domestic violence.
44 percent say the most difficult barrier to leaving an abusive relationship is financial security.
Almost 60 percent of Americans don't see a connection between harassing a partner at work and economic abuse, even if it may cost the victim their job and ultimately limiting income.

About the National Poll
The Allstate Foundation "Crisis: Economics and Domestic Violence" poll was a nationwide telephone survey of 708 Americans conducted in May 2009 by Murphy Marketing Research. The survey sample was generated by random digit dialing and represents a margin of error of +/- 3.7 percentage points. The survey sample was designed to closely mirror the breakdown of the current U.S. population with 10 percent African-American and 10 percent Hispanic respondents. For the full survey results, please visit www.ClickToEmpower.org.

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. Allstate and The Allstate Foundation sponsor community initiatives to promote "safe and vital communities"; "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity"; and "economic empowerment." The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream.

About the Economics Against Abuse Program
The Allstate Foundation Economics Against Abuse Program helps domestic violence survivors build their financial independence to get free and stay free from abuse. Seeing a significant gap in resources for programs designed to assist survivors with the economic challenges that they face, The Allstate Foundation took action and partnered with the National Network to End Domestic Violence to create a comprehensive program. Economics Against Abuse provides resources, funds direct services and spreads the word on how to empower those touched by domestic and economic abuse. For more information and to find out how to help, visit www.ClickToEmpower.org.

Contact:
Jennifer McGrath
The Allstate Foundation
847-402-7805
Jennifer.McGrath@allstate.com

Ginger Werner
Zeno for The Allstate Foundation
312-396-9766
Ginger.Werner@zenogroup.com

Social Responsibility: Minnesota Teens Win National Teen Driving Activism Contest

Wed, 27 May 2009 13:52:56 -0500

To celebrate National Youth Traffic Safety Month, "Act Out Loud: Raising Voices for Safe Teen Driving" honors the nation's best teen-led, school-based safe driving projects
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A group of teens from Anoka High School have been named grand prize winners of the 2009 "Act Out Loud: Raising Voices for Safe Teen Driving" contest. The online teen safe driving contest sponsored by National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) and funded by The Allstate Foundation, featured 20 teams of teen activists from across the country who competed to raise awareness for teen safe driving in support of National Youth Traffic Safety Month in May. The winners were determined by the number of online votes they received on the contest Web site, www.ActOutLoud.org.

The Anoka, MN team will receive a $10,000 grand prize for their project, "Get the 411 on Teen Driving! Stay Connected! Save Teen Lives." The Anoka team has decided to use their grand prize funds to develop a grant application process consisting of a student and adult panel, to disperse the money to other school and community groups eager and willing to educate teens about traffic safety. A team from Massapequa High School, Massapequa, NY, earned second place and $5,000 and Coral Springs Charter, Coral Springs, FL, was named the third place winner with a prize of $3,000. All prizes will fund a youth safe driving effort of the school's choice in their respective communities.

"We are extremely proud of these hard working teens and their commitment to get involved in youth safe driving efforts," said Sandy Spavone, executive director of NOYS. "Each year, more than 5,000 young people die in car crashes and about 300,000 are injured. The work of these teens and their community members combined with local enforcement and support will save lives prevent these injuries."

The Anoka High School SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) team created a Web site, www.teendriver411.com, which includes information about their campaign, their state's Graduated Driver Licensing laws and other key safety and driving facts. In addition to developing video PSAs on texting while driving and limiting the number of passengers in the car, the team challenged University of Minnesota athletes to a seat belt competition. Anoka was recognized during a "Day at the Capitol" and was supported by their local law enforcement, city council, school district, and a host of other organizations.

"Anoka High School SADD is committed to educating our peers and community about traffic safety. Our goal is to eliminate teen fatalities and injuries caused by traffic crashes." said team captain Natalie Hayford. "The community has embraced our mission by voting for us and we appreciate the support of citizens, schools, service clubs, and city governments. The communities support helped us to win this award and now it is our goal to use these funds to continue our work and support other youth programs in our community addressing youth traffic safety."

In second place, Massapequa High School's Live Long and Prosper team encouraged safe teen driving by creating video PSAs in English and Spanish, blogging, and engaging their peers and teachers throughout the school to help get the word out. Various classes developed safe driving signs, banners, posters, and a Web site which will eventually house their work. One student painted the mural "Don't be Distracted," depicting a teen girl driving while talking on her cell phone and putting on make-up. The mural is on display in Westfield Sunrise Mall in Massapequa. Another student created a paper mache sports car, with the license plate JST DRV. The team was also recognized by their congressman and the director of the county's drinking driver program.

"We have been working very hard throughout this entire competition to raise awareness about safe teen driving and how every person can do something to help," said team captain Brian Cusick. "Our first priority is to raise teen awareness about risky driving behavior. We plan to use the award funds to help us meet that goal by purchasing a drunk driving simulator that we can use in our community to educate our peers." Cusick adds, "Hopefully, it will show teenage drivers how dangerous it really is to drink and drive."

Third place winners, Coral Springs Charter SADD, focused on the importance of not drinking and driving and encouraged everyone to sign a pledge to be a "safe driver now and forever." The team developed a video highlighting their activities over the contest period including: creating an appreciation day for the Coral Springs Police and Fire Departments and the North Broward Medical Center; interviewing a local journalist and the Miami Heat DJ who encouraged teens not to drink and drive; staging a dramatization of an auto crash and what it would be like to be handcuffed and arrested; hosting a demonstration highlighting the importance of seat-belt use; and holding a "Ghost Out" where students were asked to sign a pledge to be a "safe driver now and forever."

"It took a great amount of time and hard work to make it this far and there are no words that can express the excitement we are feeling to be one of the top teams," said Coral Springs team captain Dahlia Hassanein. "Our team plans to use the award funds to develop more activities that focus on empowering our peers to make positive choices and to give back to the community that supported us on our journey."

Across the nation, the Top 20 Act Out Loud teams documented their activism projects through blog, photo and video postings and educated their peers about safe teen driving in an effort to prevent crashes and risky driving behavior during the summer driving season, which is the deadliest season for teens on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, six of the top ten deadliest days for teen drivers fall between Memorial Day and Labor Day. National Youth Traffic Safety Month activities encourage teens to conduct safe driving projects in May--during prom, graduation and the launch of the summer driving season--so that teens and communities will be positively impacted by safe driving messages.

To view the winning teams' videos and team pages, and for additional information on "Act Out Loud," please visit www.ActOutLoud.org. Also, to view the safe teen driving PSAs by NOYS and The Allstate Foundation, please visit http://www.youtube.com/user/NOYSTube. To sign the National Youth Traffic Safety Month petition, please visit http://www.petitiononline.com/NYTSM09/petition.html.

To secure an interview with a representative from The Allstate Foundation please contact Joanna Augustynski at (847) 402-5604 or jaugc@allstate.com and for a representative from NOYS or one of the winning teams, please contact Kimberly Varner at (202) 842- 3600 x254 or kvarner@hagersharp.com .

National Organizations for Youth Safety
Founded on February 8, 1994, the National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) is a coalition of approximately 40 national organizations and government agencies with one common goal, to promote safe and healthy behaviors among America's youth. Through this network, NOYS influences more than 80 million youth and adults. The mission of the NOYS coalition is to promote youth empowerment and leadership, and build partnerships that save lives, prevent injuries, and enhance safe and healthy lifestyles among all youth. NOYS created National Youth Traffic Safety Month to empower youth to develop and lead teen traffic safety projects that will positively impact their communities. For more information visit www.noys.org.

The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. The Allstate Foundation partners with non-profit organizations on community initiatives that promote "safe and vital communities," "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity" and "economic empowerment." Teen driving and empowering victims of domestic violence have been major initiatives for the Foundation since 2005. For more information visit www.ProtectTeenDrivers.com.

Contact:

Joanna Augustynski
Phone: (847) 402-5604

Social Responsibility: Teens Experience Layoffs, Reduced Hours, Job Scarcity and Forced Frugality According to New Junior Achievement/Allstate Foundation Poll

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:00:56 -0500

Teens also feeling anxious about economy and going out less often
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Fourteen percent of U.S. teens 15-17 years-old report the need to contribute financially to the family budget, one-third of all teens report less job availability, 53 percent of teens surveyed say they're choosing activities that cost less money and more than 50 percent say they talk about the economy with their friends, according a new poll released today by Junior Achievement and The Allstate Foundation.

Now in its tenth year, the Junior Achievement/Allstate Foundation Teen Personal Finance Poll is an annual, financial IQ pulse check for U.S. teens.

"The results of this poll demonstrate a strong need for increased financial literacy- teens are indicating feelings of uncertainty and anxiety about the economy and its effect on their lives", said Jack E. Kosakowski, president of Junior Achievement USA. "Possessing and using sound money management skills can help young people feel more in control of their futures. Regardless of the state of the economy, Junior Achievement programs teach students how to budget, save, invest and use credit wisely; we're proud to partner with The Allstate Foundation to increase financial literacy for future generations."

"The survey results underscore the importance of teaching young people money management skills as early in life as possible," said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president for public social responsibility at Allstate. "The Allstate Foundation's support for this kind of education could not be better timed."

Other survey results include:

One third of teens (33 percent) surveyed said there seem to be fewer jobs available.
18 percent of 15 -17 year olds polled said they have lost a job due the economy.
Nearly three-in-ten teens (29 percent) said that the economy is causing them anxiety.
More than three-quarters (77 percent) of the teens polled say that their parents are talking about the economy more than they used to.
Nearly half (49 percent) said their parents had discussed family finances with them as a result of the economy.
15 percent of teens said they have reduced extracurricular activities as a result of the economy.

Junior Achievement and The Allstate Foundation have created a financial literacy program for middle grades students, JA Economics for Success™, which teaches young people money management skills- such as budgeting and understanding the cost of credit- using hands-on, ageappropriate lessons. The program impacts 268,000 students around the world annually.

In addition to providing JA Economics for Success, Junior Achievement and The Allstate Foundation have partnered to create personal finance teaching tools that parents can use to talk to their children about the importance of learning and using sound money management skills. The twelve lessons are downloadable free of charge at http://www.ja.org/programs/programs_save_usa_materials_parents.shtml and teach age-appropriate concepts around budgeting, saving, spending and investing.

The 2009 Teens and Personal Finance poll was conducted by Opinion Research Corporation the week of February 23, 2009, and surveyed 1,000 U.S. teens ages 12-17 via telephone. Its margin of error is +/- 3.2 percent.

About Junior Achievement® (JA)
Junior Achievement is the world's largest organization dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy. Through a dedicated volunteer network, Junior Achievement provides in-school and after-school programs for students which focus on three key content areas: work readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. Today, 137 individual area operations reach more than four million students in the United States, with an additional five million students served by operations in 123 other countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.ja.org.

Contacts:

Stephanie Bell
JA Worldwide®
(719) 540-6171
sbell@ja.org

Raleigh Floyd
Allstate Media Relations
(847) 402-5600
Raleigh.floyd@allstate.com

Social Responsibility: Twenty Teams of Teen Activists Address the No. 1 Killer of Teens in National Act Out Loud Competition

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 18:50:56 -0500

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The National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) and The Allstate Foundation announced today the Top 20 teams selected to compete in the 2009 Act Out Loud: Raising Voices for Safe Teen Driving contest, a national teen-led and school-based activism competition to help spread the word about safe teen driving this May during National Youth Traffic Safety Month (NYTSM). Sixty-four teams applied for the opportunity to compete in the 2nd annual contest.

"Car crashes are the No. 1 cause of death and injuries for teens in the United States, so we are glad that youth are getting involved in safe driving efforts and spreading the word to their peers," said Sandy Spavone, executive director of NOYS. "We hope that the more teen drivers and passengers understand what it really means to drive safely, the more they will speak up and help prevent car crashes."

In December 2008, NOYS put out a call to teens across the country to submit project proposals for the contest. Judges selected the Top 20 teams based on originality, level of involvement and communication of key safe driving messages and themes. The Top 20 teams are showcased at www.ActOutLoud.org.

Each team will receive $1,000 and a video camera from The Allstate Foundation to document their progress via blog, photos and video over the next two months. The public will vote online at www.ActOutLoud.org for their favorite teams from May 11-22 to determine the top three winners.

"The Allstate Foundation is committed to harnessing the positive power of peer influence to change the way teens think and act in the car," said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president for public social responsibility at Allstate. "By empowering teens to become smart driving activists in their schools and communities, we hope to reverse the staggering statistics." Nearly 5,000 young people die in car crashes each year and about 300,000 are injured.

In January 2009, NOYS worked with the research company TRU to gain a fresh perspective on current young driver knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. The data revealed that teens involved in youth traffic safety efforts are more likely to speak up if their friends are driving unsafely. The survey revealed that:

65 percent of teens have asked someone to stop driving unsafely, and that number rises to 75 percent for teens involved in a youth traffic safety effort
55 percent of girls [vs. 46% of guys] have talked to friends about safe driving
Nearly 90 percent of teens have asked passengers to buckle up.

The Top 20 teams are as follows:

Anoka High School SADD, Anoka High School (Anoka, MN)
Cactus Shadows SADD Chapter, Cactus Shadows High School (Scottsdale, AZ)
Community Alliance for a Safer Tomorrow Youth, Upper Merion Area High School (King of Prussia, PA)
Coosa High TSA, Coosa High School (Rome, GA)
Coral Springs Charter SADD, Coral Springs Charter (Coral Springs, FL)
Henry Sibley SADD, Henry Sibley High School (Mendota Heights, MN)
Hillsboro SADD, Hillsboro High School (Hillsboro, ND)
Hopkins High School 'Keep the Drive' Club, Hopkins High School (Minnetonka, MN)
Lake Howell High School, Lake Howell High (Winter Park, FL)
Liberty High School YOVASO, Liberty High School (Bealeton, VA)
Live Long and Prosper, Massapequa High School (Massapequa, NY)
Midwest Central High School - IPASS - I Practice Auto Safety Skills, Midwest Central High School (Manito, IL)
Mountain Proud Teen Safety Squad, Lee County Alternate High School (Beattyville, KY)
Rock, Don't Roll, Shallowater High School (Shallowater, TX)
Saints Alive!, Vail Christian High School (Edwards, CO)
Soaring Eagles, Smyrna High School (Smyrna, DE)
Students Against Destructive Decisions, Madison Central High School (Madison, MS)
The Informants, Scecina Memorial High School (Indianapolis, IN)
Three Forks FCCLA, Three Forks High School (Three Forks, MT)
VHS Student Council, Valley High School (Las Vegas, NV)

From the Top 20 teams, The Allstate Foundation will award up to $10,000 to the three teams with the most votes, which will be announced during NYTSM on May 27th. The prize will go to the team's local organization to assist them in continuing their youth traffic safety efforts.

Additional team and program information can be found at www.ActOutLoud.org. To secure an interview with a representative from NOYS, The Allstate Foundation, or one of the Top 20 teams, please contact Christy Bennett at (202) 842-3600 x242 or cbennett@hagersharp.com.

###

National Organizations for Youth Safety
Founded on February 8, 1994, the National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) is a coalition of approximately 40 national organizations and government agencies with one common goal, to promote safe and healthy behaviors among America's youth. Through this network, NOYS influences more than 80 million youth and adults. The mission of NOYS is to promote youth empowerment and leadership, and build partnerships that save lives, prevent injuries, and enhance safe and healthy lifestyles among all youth. NOYS created National Youth Traffic Safety Month to empower youth to develop and led teen traffic safety projects that will positively impact their communities.

Social Responsibility: Good Hands Go To Work Serving Communities Across America To Honor Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 18:36:00 -0600

Allstate Joins The King Center and Other Non-Profits to Mobilize Thousands of Volunteers in Atlanta and Across the Nation to Serve on King Day of Service and Beyond
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Today, Allstate Insurance Company is designating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as Allstate Beyond February Give Back Day, to be observed in Atlanta and 18 other cities across the country.

As a company-wide, national day of service, Beyond February Give Back Day promotes the ideals and vision of Dr. King in his hometown and nationally by inspiring people to donate their time to worthy causes in their own communities today and throughout the year.

Today, Allstate and The King Center in Atlanta will host a volunteer rally after the annual ecumenical service honoring Dr. King at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Allstate and King family representatives will encourage the thousands of people assembled to put their good hands to good use year round.

In addition to hundreds of participants volunteering in Atlanta community projects, more than 1,000 Allstate-organized volunteers will fan out across the country, rehabbing homes, feeding the homeless and signing up organ donors in cities ranging from Tampa, Florida to Denver, Colorado.

Allstate is inviting all consumers to visit BeyondFebruary.com to find out how to find volunteer opportunities in their zip codes. The Web site highlights Allstate's commitment to the African-American community and links to VolunteerMatch, an online search engine that promotes volunteerism and civic engagement by matching volunteers with charitable organizations and non-profits.

Highlights of Beyond February since its inception in October 2007 have included sponsorships of the Tom Joyner Family Reunion, the American Black Film Festival, State of the Black Union, the Gospel Superfest, and more.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through approximately 14,900 exclusive Allstate agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass® and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers. Customers can also access information about Allstate Financial Group products and services at myallstatefinancial.com.

Contact:

Raleigh Floyd
Allstate (847)
402-5600

Social Responsibility: Financial Empowerment Grants Aid Survivors of Domestic Violence

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 20:35:47 -0600

The Allstate Foundation Domestic Violence Program Awards $552,000
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The Allstate Foundation recently awarded $552,000 in economic empowerment grants to domestic violence coalitions in nine states. The funds will help to ease the financial burden of domestic violence survivors who are often the hardest hit by economic downturns.

The grants will be used to support a variety of local programs focused on developing strategies to move survivors toward financial independence. The grantees' work will center on Individual Development Accounts (IDA), micro-enterprise, financial literacy, and job readiness activities.

"The Allstate Foundation is committed to empowering survivors of domestic violence, by providing them with the tools and resources that enable them to achieve economic independence," said Michele Coleman Mayes, Allstate Senior Vice President and General Counsel. "Our goal is to work with advocates through statewide and local initiatives, helping them to work with survivors to build financial skills, which are critical during these financially turbulent times. Through our Economic Empowerment grants, we continue to help survivors work toward safe and economically secure futures."

In partnership with the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) Fund, The Allstate Foundation Economic Empowerment for Domestic Violence Survivors Program provides knowledge and skills - particularly those related to financial security and economic empowerment - to support survivors of domestic violence. The grants are just one of the elements of The Allstate Foundation Program, which has provided more than $4,500,000 in funding to national and state domestic violence organizations since its launch in 2005.

"Women with financial skills have an increased chance of getting away from an abusive situation and sustaining themselves and their families on a long-term basis," according to Sue Else, President of NNEDV. "The Allstate Foundation is integral in assisting women to achieve financial independence - it provides critical resources and financial support to create innovative programs that directly help survivors face the tough economic challenges of beginning a new life, free from violence."

Domestic violence survivors often face significant financial obstacles stemming from their abuse. These problems are heightened in times of economic downturn, making it increasingly more difficult to escape an abusive relationship. Many survivors have been prohibited from entering the workforce or from pursuing higher education and job training activities, or must repair credit damage caused by their abuser. Through initiatives like the Education and Job Training Assistance Fund, which provides microgrants to survivors helping them to achieve their educational and professional goals, and the financial empowerment curriculum that is being implemented in programs across the country, The Allstate Foundation is filling a gap in domestic violence funding and resource provision.

The nine new grants were awarded to the following state domestic violence coalitions, to enhance already existing economic empowerment programs or build new ones throughout their respective states:

Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $55,000
Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence awarded $52,000
Kentucky Domestic Violence Association awarded $100,000
Michigan Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence awarded $80,000
New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $50,000
New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $60,000
Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence awarded $50,000
Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $55,000
Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence awarded $50,000

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. Allstate and The Allstate Foundation sponsor community initiatives to promote "safe and vital communities"; "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity"; and "economic empowerment." The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America's families achieve their American dream. For additional information, visit www.clicktoempower.org.

About the National Network to End Domestic Violence Fund
The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) Fund is a 501 ©(3) taxexempt social change organization representing state domestic violence coalitions. The NNEDV Fund is dedicated to creating a social, political, and economic environment in which violence against women no longer exists. The NNEDV Fund accomplishes these goals through capacity building for coalitions, public education, training, and technical assistance to maintain and develop the professional expertise of advocates. The NNEDV Fund strives to strengthen advocates as organizers and activists in the tradition of social change movements. For more information about the NNEDV Fund, visit www.nnedv.org.

Contact:

Raleigh Floyd
(847) 402-5600

Social Responsibility: Kate Voegele Rewards Top Holiday Carolers at Competition to Promote Smart Teen Driving

Sat, 06 Dec 2008 19:00:56 -0600

"Holiday Holla" Contest Finalists "Shout Out" About Smart Driving to Help Save Teen Lives
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Car crashes are the No. 1 killer of teens taking more than 5,000 lives a year, and the holiday season is a deadly time for teen drivers. But that hasn't stopped a group of teens from spreading good cheer and smart driving messages. Through one of the first contests of its kind called "Holiday Holla," Dillon Craig,18, Jeremy Glick,17, and Sam Feil,17, from Visalia, Calif., won $10,000 from The Allstate Foundation, and were recognized for their creativity in being smart driving advocates. Craig, Glick and Feil performed, along with four other teams, their version of the holiday carol Jingle Bells with smart driving lyrics in front of recording artist Kate Voegele, widely known for her guest starring role on "One Tree Hill," and hundreds of holiday shoppers at the Mall of America, in Bloomington, Minn., on Dec. 6. The teens' song, "Watch the Road," discusses the dangers of speeding, drinking while driving, talking on cell phones and not wearing a seatbelt.

"It was cool to perform in front of so many people with an important message, but more than anything, we want our friends and family to be safe whenever they're on the road, especially during the holidays," said Sam Feil, one of the grand prize winners. "The fact that our team just won $10,000, and may have helped save some lives at the same time is pretty amazing."

With the goal of saving lives during a deadly time of year for teen drivers, The Allstate Foundation - through its national teen-to-teen smart driving movement, Keep the Drive - challenged teens from across the country to rewrite and perform (or "holla") holiday carols with new, catchy lyrics about smart driving. From among the many entries, teens voted on their favorites and the top five most popular performers were selected to belt it out at the finalist event during which a panel of teen and celebrity judges selected the grand prize winner.

Car crashes are the No. 1 killer of teens," said Voegele. "That's a scary fact, but it's something young drivers have the power to change. It's great for me to have this forum to reach out to teen drivers to promote smart driving in a fun way, especially during the holidays. Hopefully teens will start to think twice before doing something dangerous, like text messaging while driving."

The Holiday Holla event culminated with Voegele presenting the teens with the $10,000 grand prize followed by a performance of four of her songs made famous by "One Tree Hill."

Tomaso DeNoia, 17, Kim Kasten, 17, and Brooke Davenport, 18, of Tom's River, N.J. took second place with a prize of $5,000. Emily Twohig, 14, Sara Sweeney, 14, and Alexa Erickson, 14, from Woodbury, Minn. won $3,000 for third place.

Allstate Insurance agent Jason Frankot from Cottage Grove, Minn., helped kick off the event by welcoming the crowd on behalf of The Allstate Foundation and introducing Voegele.

"The Allstate Foundation's teen driving program is about empowering teens to become smart driving activists in their communities," said Frankot. "It is our hope that the Holiday Holla contest helps positively impact the driving choices of teens across the country this holiday season."

According to a national survey of teens conducted by The Allstate Foundation, more than half (53 percent) of teens say their friends are the most effective influence in getting them to drive more safely. The Holiday Holla contest leveraged the power of the peer-to-peer approach to spread smart driving messages in an unconventional way among teens.

Driving Tips for Teens

Keep your eyes on the road. According to a national survey of teens conducted by The Allstate Foundation, 56 percent of teens talk on their cell phones while driving, and 13 percent read or write text messages. Distracted driving is a major cause of crashes. Make it a goal to celebrate 2009 with your friends instead of the mortician.
Slow down. The survey also found nearly 90 percent of teens admit to speeding. Speeding is one of the main causes for teen car crashes. Be a rebel and drive the speed limit this holiday season.
"Holla" at your friends. Half of teens from the survey said they wouldn't speak up if a friend were driving recklessly. Would you speak up if your life were in danger? If not, make a New Year's resolution to grow a backbone.
Use your buckle. Roughly two-thirds of teens who die in car wrecks are not buckled up, reports the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This season, give your friends the gift of life and tell them to buckle up!

Tips for Parents on How to "Holla" about Smart Driving in the New Year

Practice what you preach. Be a positive role model when you're behind the wheel. Your teen is more likely to be a calm driver, put down the phone and MP3 player, wear a seat belt and follow the rules of the road if they see you do the same.
Don't rush the training process. Just because teens have permits or licenses doesn't mean they're ready for every driving condition. The roads are especially dangerous during bad weather. By easing into the training process, you'll ensure your teen will be ready for most situations.
Empower your teen. Being a passenger in another teen's car can put your teen at risk. Make sure your teen knows it's okay to say something if he or she is uncomfortable while riding with a friend, and help your teen to practice what to say in these situations.
Understand your state's laws. Every state has Graduated Driver Licensing to help new drivers get their initial on-the-road driving experience under lower-risk conditions, protecting them while they are learning. Familiarize yourself and your teen with these requirements, and establish your own rules for when, where, how and with whom your teen may drive.

For more information on Holiday Holla and to view the finalists' videos, visit www.HolidayHolla.com. To learn more about the survey, and for state-by-state teen driving statistics, visit http://www.publicaster.com/info/allstate/teendriving/01/ for a press kit. Additional information on teen driving, including tips for parents on positively impacting their teen drivers, is available at www.ProtectTeenDrivers.com.

About Keep the Drive

Keep the Drive is a national teen-to-teen smart driving movement funded by The Allstate Foundation. It educates teens about the issue, impacts the way they think and act in the car and empowers them to become smart driving activists in their schools and communities and online. For more information, visit www.KeeptheDrive.com.

About The Allstate Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. The Allstate Foundation partners with non-profit organizations on community initiatives that promote "safe and vital communities," "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity" and "economic empowerment." Teen driving and empowering victims of domestic violence have been major initiatives for the Foundation since 2005.

Contacts:

Joanna Augustynski
847.402.5604
jaugc@allstate.com

Social Responsibility: Allstate Invites America to Put Its "Good Hands®" to Use on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Beyond February

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 20:04:00 -0600

Allstate Partners with The King Center and Other Non-Profits to Mobilize Volunteers in Atlanta and Across the Nation to Serve on January 19, 2009 and Beyond
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Allstate Insurance Company announced it is designating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2009 as Allstate Beyond February Give Back Day, to be observed in Atlanta and cities across the country on January 19, 2009.

As part of the company's commitment to the African-American community and continued commitment to volunteerism, this special initiative will further the ideals and vision of Dr. King in his hometown and nationally by inspiring people to donate their time to worthy causes in their own communities on January 19th and throughout the entire year.

"Beyond February Give Back Day reinforces the importance of giving back to your community in the spirit of my father and everything he fought for," said Bernice King, Dr. King's youngest daughter. "But an even greater tribute to my father's legacy is evidenced by the people who demonstrate the passion and the commitment to serve their communities throughout the year, not just on MLK Day or during Black History Month."

To kick off Allstate Beyond February Give Back Day, Allstate has partnered with The King Center in Atlanta to host a volunteer rally after the annual ecumenical service honoring Dr. King at Ebenezer Baptist Church on the morning of January 19. During the event, Allstate and King family representatives will encourage the thousands of people in attendance to put their good hands to good use by visiting BeyondFebruary.com to learn about volunteer opportunities they can sign up for in their communities.

During the rally, up to 1,000 volunteers, organized locally by Allstate, will spread out across Atlanta to donate their time and efforts to a variety of charities and non-profit organizations, including the 100 Black Men of America, 100 Black Women of America, the Ryan Cameron Foundation, the Atlanta ToolBank, and several public schools, in honor of Dr. King.

Allstate is encouraging all consumers to visit BeyondFebruary.com to find out how to find volunteer opportunities in their zip codes on Beyond February Give Back Day (January 19, 2009). This interactive Web site highlights Allstate's commitment to the African-American
community and links to VolunteerMatch, an online search engine that promotes volunteerism and civic engagement by matching volunteers with charitable organizations and non-profits.

Because Allstate believes in supporting the African-American community well beyond just the month of February, Beyond February was established in 2007 as an ongoing initiative that creates, supports and sponsors programs that empower and enrich African-American
communities across the United States. The program is highlighted by the interactive Web site, which, in addition to providing access to information on volunteer opportunities for Beyond February Give Back Day, also highlights the various programs and events Allstate supports throughout the year via an artistic and visual mural.

"At Allstate, we want to make it easy for people to put their good hands to work for the betterment of the community," said Anise Wiley-Little, assistant vice president and chief diversity officer for Allstate. "Beyond February and Allstate Beyond February Give Back Day will empower people to embrace volunteerism while providing them with the resources to carry on the spirit of Dr. King throughout the year."

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through approximately 14,700 exclusive Allstate agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass® and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers. Customers can also access information about Allstate Financial Group products and services at myallstatefinancial.com.

Social Responsibility: Teens "Holla" About Smart Driving with Kate Voegele

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 01:28:56 -0500

Second annual "Holiday Holla" online caroling contest invites teens to help save lives with chance to win $10,000
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Instead of "Deck the Halls," teens this holiday season may be singing "Deck the Streets." Keep the Drive - a teen-to-teen smart driving movement funded by The Allstate Foundation - invites teens from across the country to participate in "Holiday Holla," an online caroling contest. By challenging teens to rewrite and perform (or "holla") traditional holiday carols with new, catchy lyrics about smart driving, the contest empowers teens to help address the No. 1 killer of teens - car crashes.

The top five teams will perform in front of recording artist Kate Voegele, widely known for her guest star role on One Tree Hill, and thousands of people at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn., on Dec. 6, 2008, for the chance to win $10,000.

"The holidays are deadly for teen drivers, which is hard to talk about during such a happy time of the year," said Voegele, who will help select this year's winners. "Through music, humor and the Internet, 'Holiday Holla' gives teens the chance to take on this difficult issue in a fun way."

The 2007 grand-prize winners, Danny Luebke and Carl Turner of Minneapolis, Minn., won the adoration of the crowd and celebrity judge, Taylor Swift, with their song "Make a Difference," an upbeat acoustic version of the holiday carol "Good King Wenceslaus." Go to
www.KeeptheDrive.com for last year's finalist videos.

"Holiday Holla" Contest Details
To enter, teens create their own video carols using smart driving lyrics and well-known, public domain holiday songs such as "Deck the Halls," "Oh Chanuka, Oh Chanuka," "Jingle Bells" and other classics listed on www.KeeptheDrive.com. Teens must videotape themselves performing their songs and submit their videos to www.KeeptheDrive.com from Oct. 1 through Nov. 2, Teens can enter as individuals or in teams of up to three teens.

On Nov. 7, fifteen semi-finalists will be announced. Each semi-finalist team will receive a $1,000 award from The Allstate Foundation. The public will help select the top five finalist videos through online voting from Nov. 7 through Nov. 21 at www.KeeptheDrive.com. Members from the five teams whose videos get the most votes will win an expenses-paid trip to the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota. On Saturday, Dec. 6, the finalists will perform their songs onstage for a panel of judges, including Kate Voegele. Voegele will award the grandprize, second place and third place winners with $10,000, $5,000 and $3,000, respectively.

Tips for Teens
In the U.S., car crashes cause far more teen deaths each year than drugs, violence or suicide. According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, more than 5,000 teens die each year in car crashes-and 300,000 teens are injured. The Allstate Foundation has simple tips to keep teens safer this holiday season:

Put the phone down. According to a national survey of teens conducted by The Allstate Foundation, while driving, 56 percent of teens talk on their cell phones and 13 percent read or write text messages. Driving with distractions is a major cause of crashes.
Slow down. Speeding is one of the main causes of teen crashes. Ninety percent of teens admit to speeding, according to the survey.
Speak up! Half of teens from the survey said they wouldn't speak up if a friend was driving recklessly.
Use your buckle. Roughly two-thirds of teens who die in car wrecks are not buckled up, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Some suggestions for parents include being a good role model and practicing what you preach. Brush up on state laws. Every state has Graduated Driver Licensing to help new drivers get practice driving under lower-risk conditions. Get to know these laws, and establish your own rules for when, where, how and with whom your teen may drive.

For detailed rules on "Holiday Holla," go to www.KeeptheDrive.com.

Editor's Note: If you're interested in any of the following interview opportunities and/or content, please Joanna Augustynski at jaugc@allstate.com or 847-402-5604.

Interview with Voegele to discuss her role in the contest/event, the importance of the teen driving issue and how teens can get involved
An advance interview of teens who are leading the Keep the Drive movement to discuss the issue, what they're doing in their communities as activists and their point of view regarding the "Holiday Holla" contest
Opportunity to come to the event, interview the finalists and Voegele and capture your own photos
Pictures from the finalist event with Voegele and teen performers
The top five finalist videos and the winning video for your Web site
Information on teen driving (statistics on teen car crashes, activism projects, etc.)

About Keep the Drive
Keep the Drive is a national teen-led smart driving movement funded by The Allstate Foundation. It educates teens about the issue, impacts the way they think and act in the car and empowers them to become smart driving activists in their schools and communities and online. For more information, visit www.KeeptheDrive.com..

About The Allstate Foundation
Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. The Allstate Foundation partners with non-profit organizations on community initiatives that promote "safe and vital communities," "tolerance, inclusion, and diversity" and "economic empowerment." Teen driving and empowering victims of domestic violence have been major initiatives for the Foundation since 2005. For more information, visit www.ProtectTeenDrivers.com.

Contacts:
Joanna Augustynski
847.402.5604 (w)
jaugc@allstate.com