Keenan Announces Multi-Level Support Initiative for California YMCA Youth & Government Program

Commitment Includes Financial Assistance for Youth Participants as well as Professional Development and Mentoring Opportunities

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Keenan & Associates

Feb 18, 2010, 06:06 ET

TORRANCE, Calif., Feb. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Keenan & Associates, the largest privately held insurance brokerage and consulting firm in California, has announced the formation of a relationship with the California YMCA Youth & Government program which was kicked off on Fri., Feb. 12, 2010, during the VIP day for this year's 62nd Youth & Government Model Legislature and Court taking place Feb. 11-15 in Sacramento.

"This initiative is an excellent opportunity for Keenan to extend its close relationships with local communities, governing bodies and schools where we can help make an impact at a high level for these kids. In fact, we have employees who have participated in these programs and can attest to their value," said Henry Loubet, Chief Strategy Officer for Keenan. "As I've met various presidents and CEOs of local YMCAs, they have mentioned that either the local superintendent of schools or city council members were members of their board. I've also had a chance to meet several of the youth from various school districts who are participating in the program and are in leadership positions. All were very impressive."

The relationship will encompass three aspects. The first is financial support from Keenan enabling YMCA youth in five areas of northern and southern California to participate in Youth & Government activities. Those areas include Santa Clara (Central Silicon Valley YMCA), Oakland (Downtown Oakland YMCA), Torrance (Torrance South Bay YMCA), Santa Ana (Santa Ana YMCA) and Riverside (Southwest Riverside YMCA). The second is an opportunity for YMCA Youth & Government participants to attend the annual Keenan Summit. The third is a set of sessions at Keenan offices where Youth & Government participants will engage in small-group and one-on-one mentoring with Keenan business professionals.

The YMCA Youth & Government program provides hands-on, educational simulation experiences designed to inspire young people to become active and concerned participants in government as citizens. Because delegates come from a wide range of backgrounds, Keenan's commitment will provide financial assistance for youth to attend these events.

Prior to the five-day Model Legislature and Court session, delegates meet locally to write bills, select governmental positions for role playing, learn legislative and judicial procedures, attend statewide training conferences and run for various elected offices. When they arrive in Sacramento, the "real" government moves aside to let the Youth & Government contingent "take over" in the halls, chambers and offices of the State Capitol, Supreme Court and Governor's Office.

The annual Keenan Summit convenes leaders in health care, school districts, cities, counties, community colleges and municipalities from throughout the state to address current trends and issues. This year's Summit events, to be held March 3 in Pasadena and March 4 in Berkeley, will focus on the implications of health care reform, risk management and public policy, emphasizing the impact these developments could have on organizations. Included in the events will be an exhibit area, where the YMCA Youth & Government program will share information with attendees. Program youth participants will have an opportunity to meet and learn from the attendees as well.

Then, later this year, Keenan will host a series of regional gatherings where YMCA Youth & Government participants will have an opportunity to meet with Keenan staff to learn about the world of business.

"Through the support of Keenan, delegates from these areas of California who could not afford the costs of these programs will now be able to joint their local delegations and gain the benefits of this often life-changing experience," said Steve Willmont, President and CEO, California YMCA Youth & Government.

For more information on the YMCA Youth & Government program, visit www.calymca.org. For information on Keenan insurance brokerage and consulting programs, visit www.keenan.com.

About Keenan

Founded in 1972, Keenan is the 14th largest insurance consulting and brokerage firm in the United States and the largest independent broker in California. Keenan is dedicated to providing superior insurance products and services to health care organizations, schools, community colleges, and municipalities for employee benefits, third-party claims administration, workers' compensation, integrated disability, risk management, and property and liability. Keenan has a network of offices located throughout California and a staff of more than 650 insurance specialists. For more information, call 800-654-8102 or 310-212-3344, email [email protected], or visit www.keenan.com.

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SOURCE Keenan & Associates