Lending a Helping Hand

Aug. 29, 2006

• Read about Iowa’s 2006 recruiting class
• Follow the renovation of Kinnick Stadium
• Kinnick: The play at Hancher
• The Schedule: 2006 and beyond
• Cruise with Kirk

The University of Iowa, Iowa State University and American Family Insurance announced today a joint effort to raise money to support breast cancer research and awareness efforts in the state of Iowa.

Each university will sell officially licensed “United for the Cure” baseball-style caps during the 2006 college football season that are pink in color and feature the official logo of the Hawkeyes or Cyclones on the front side. Pink is the color associated with philanthropic and other activities staged to generate either awareness or financial support for breast cancer research.

“The Hawkeyes are pleased to be doing what we can to help in the fight against breast cancer,” said Gary Barta, director of athletics at the University of Iowa. “All of us know of someone or have a family member who has been challenged by breast cancer and I’m confident Hawkeye fans can embrace this program as an easy opportunity to support the Hawkeyes and support those doing the research and other efforts supportive of the cause.”

“Breast cancer is taking too great of a toll on Iowa residents, and American Family is proud to join forces with the University of Iowa and Iowa State University in search of a cure,” said Chris Listau, Iowa state sales director for American Family Insurance.

“The American Cancer Society estimates more than 400 women in Iowa will die from breast cancer this year. United for the Cure is a way for fans to help bring that number down.”

The “United for a Cure” program is designed similar to the program American Family Insurance staged a year ago with the Green Bay Packers.

University of Iowa caps are available for purchase at participating American Family Insurance agents’ office across the state. They will also be available at historic Kinnick Stadium on game days and on the world wide web at Official Iowa Hawk Shop

American Family Insurance has a long tradition of community sponsorships and involvement, contributing to organizations that improve the quality of life for those in need, particularly children. In 2005, the company made charitable contributions of more than $2.5 million and continued its $13 million support for the construction of a new children’s hospital in Madison, Wis., the location of its corporate headquarters.

The company provides financial protection to customers in 18 states. It first started doing business in Iowa in 1949 and currently has 154 agents serving the needs of the people of Iowa.

American Family Insurance Group ranks 323rd on Fortune magazine’s list of top companies.