Advice from insurance professionals
There ’ s a difference between an insurance carrier and an insurance broker .
In its simplest form : the carrier provides the coverage ; the broker works independently to shop for coverages offered by various carriers to meet a client ’ s need . In the current ministry environment , it ’ s imperative to have both a knowledgeable agent / broker and an insurance carrier accustomed to working with ministries .
Gathered below are thoughts from carriers and brokers who provide competent guidance to ministries of all sizes and complexity .
Guy Russ AVP of Risk Control Church Mutual Insurance Company “ As the nation ’ s leading provider of insurance services to ministries , we work with numerous churches in navigating the risk of child sexual abuse and pioneered a specific sexual misconduct coverage to meet their unique needs . After 123 years , Church Mutual continues to be committed to providing guidance and programs to reduce this and many other risks . Having the correct insurance coverage is critically important , but of course , it ’ s far better to prevent sexual misconduct and abuse before it occurs .”
Andrew Shockey AVP of Risk Management Services Philadelphia Insurance Companies “ When an allegation arises , let your carrier know . We are there to help . Not only is it a requirement of the policy , but we can come alongside and provide critical guidance and resources at the outset . Moving quickly and correctly can be a game-changer .”
Steve Case AVP , Senior Corporate Counsel Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company “ I believe having the right insurance coverage in place for claims of sexual abuse is important , but having a risk management strategy in place is even more critical . As a national insurer specializing solely in Christian ministries , we ’ re focused on providing tools and resources to help ministries protect children and reduce other risks .”
Peter Persuitti Managing Director , Religious | Nonprofit Practices Gallagher “ Every year , Gallagher gathers ministry risk management thought leaders from around the world . “ New proactive ministries , including victim advocacy and prevention training , are proving to be more effective ways to put the vulnerable first . Gallagher is more than just a broker ; Gallagher is a valuable , informed partner as it relates to sexual abuse and many other risks . For ministries , we have been designing risk & claims management solutions , as well as risk financing solutions , for 50 + years .”
Jerry Sparks President AG Financial Insurance “ Many insurance agents focus on the property limits and general liability limits , when the # 1 reason churches end up in litigation is Sexual Misconduct with a minor , and agents provide less or no coverage limits for Sexual Misconduct . One claim can devastate a church , its reputation , and even its existence . As an insurance provider , we know what the risk of child sexual abuse looks like and can provide access to content to equip ministry leaders .”
Tony McLaughlin Vice President The National Catholic Risk Retention Group , Inc . “ At National Catholic , we are dedicated to excellence within the field of risk management . It includes partnering with leaders and their organizations to better equip them in how to protect children and the vulnerable .”
Dr . O . S . Hawkins President GuideStone Financial Resources “ The headlines regarding abuse and lack of safety in some churches cause us to grieve . At GuideStone , we are committed to helping churches and ministries recognize , prevent and respond well to sexual abuse while protecting those entrusted to their care .”
Adam Sammons Vice President Marsh & McLennan Agency ( MMA ) “ Given the shifts in the social and regulatory environments related to child sexual abuse , the risk profile of youth-serving organizations has become increasingly complex . Youth-serving organizations and their boards are being forced to wrestle with the balance of mission and risk . MMA is committed to these organizations to ensure that the brightest minds and biggest hearts continue to bring meaningful change to the communities in which we live and work .”
Heath Ritenour Chairman & CEO Insurance Office of America ( IOA ) “ As a national insurance broker that works with churches , we ’ ve seen it all . Child sex abuse insurance coverage is being restricted , excluded and eliminated by some insurance companies . At IOA , our ministry industry specialists can help you successfully manage your risk management needs . We make the complex simple .”
Brian Gleason Senior Risk Manager GuideOne Insurance “ Just one incident of sexual misconduct can destroy the trust , credibility and reputation of an organization for years . In addition to the reputational harm an incident causes , the legal costs of a lawsuit can ruin an organization financially . At GuideOne , we understand that navigating this and other risk issues can be complicated . Our goal is to provide you with tools and guidance that help keep your valuable resources focused on your mission .” churchexecutive . com STOP CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE • CHURCH EXECUTIVE 29