Allstate's Give Back Day Activates Volunteers to Honor Martin Luther King, Jr.

NORTHBROOK, Ill., Jan. 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --  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.

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 (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®.

SOURCE Allstate Insurance Company