Insurance Agent Recognized For Work With Suncoast Animal League

PALM HARBOR, FL — The Suncoast Animal League will receive a $2,000 donation thanks to the efforts of a local insurance agency.

Valentine Insurance Inc., a longtime supporter of the Suncoast Animal League, has been named a 2019 Change Agent by Safeco Insurance. With the honor comes a $2,000 award for the nonprofit, no-kill, no-time-limit animal welfare agency based in Palm Harbor.

Each year, the Safeco Insurance Change Agents program recognizes independent agents around the country who have made a difference through their volunteer efforts with local nonprofits.

For nearly six years Deborah Valentine and her husband, Michael, have partnered with Suncoast Animal League by donating their personal plane for rescue missions to save dogs, both in and out of state, who have suffered severe injuries and need immediate medical care. Valentine and her insurance team also sponsor and volunteer their time at the rescue’s annual events such as Mut Madness and Dogtoberfest.

The $2,000 award will be used for veterinarian fees to save the lives of the animals the Valentines help rescue.

Valentine was one of two winners selected nationwide for the 2019 Change Agent award. Agents submitting photos of their volunteer work and Safeco chose 10 finalists.

A Facebook album featuring the finalists was then posted on the Safeco Insurance Facebook page and the public was invited to vote. The two agents who received the most likes and comments on their photos were recognized nationally as Change Agents.

“The Change Agents program recognizes agents’ passion projects to support causes and organizations that are meaningful to them,” said Robyn Hawking, Safeco Insurance Metro Tampa Bay territory manager. “These independent agents serve as trusted advisors to help people protect what matters most while impacting their local communities.”

Valentine began her career in insurance with Ron Bradley Insurance Inc. in 1997. In 2007, she took over the agency and renamed it Valentine Insurance Inc.