BRANCHVILLE, N.J., December 10, 2021— Selective Insurance today held its 15th annual Build-A-Bike event to benefit Project Self-Sufficiency’s Season of Hope Toy Shop. The employee event culminated with a donation of 21 bikes and helmets. Selective employees assembled the bikes during the event at Selective’s headquarters in Branchville.   

“The Build-A-Bike event has become a holiday tradition at Selective, combining friendly competition with the power of giving back to our local community where we have been proudly based for 95 years,” said John Marchioni, President and CEO. “Project Self-Sufficiency enriches our community, and every year we look forward with anticipation to the Season of Hope Toy Drive to help make the holidays special for local children in need.” 

Ten teams of Selective employees were formed for this year’s Build-A-Bike competition, which takes place in Selective’s headquarters. The winner is the team that assembles one children’s bike and “test drives” it through the cafeteria in the fastest time. The event was emceed by Selective’s Chief Human Resources Officer Cyndi Bennet, and Project Self-Sufficiency Executive Director Deborah Berry-Toon gave opening remarks and thanked Selective employees for their contributions.  

“The Build-A-Bike event hosted by Selective Insurance is a highlight of the holiday season at Project Self-Sufficiency,” remarked Berry-Toon. “We get to witness the joy experienced by the employees as they build and donate these beautiful new bikes and watch that same spirit reflected in the faces of the families who receive them. We are grateful for the overwhelming support of Selective Insurance all year long, but it is particularly meaningful at this time of year.” 

Selective employees were invited to support Project Self-Sufficiency with a virtual toy drive, monetary donations and by volunteering at the Season of Hope Toy Shop to help individuals and families in Sussex and Northern Warren Counties. In 2020, over 2,000 children and teens received toys through the Season of Hope Toy Shop. 

In addition, the Selective Insurance Group Foundation (“Foundation”), provides monetary and in-kind donations to Project Self-Sufficiency throughout the year. A total of 292 bikes have been built and donated to Project Self-Sufficiency, along with bike safety gear. The Foundation also supports charities across the country that empower safe, sustainable, just, and diverse communities. 

ABOUT PROJECT SELF-SUFFICIENCY 

Project Self-Sufficiency is a community-based non-profit organization which specializes in services for low-income families in northwestern New Jersey. Programs offered at Project Self-Sufficiency include family literacy education, computer training and job placement services, assistance with parenting skills, childcare, counseling and advocacy, referrals, and help with emergency basic needs. To donate or for more information about the programs and services offered by Project Self-Sufficiency, visit www.ProjectSelfSufficiency.org or call 973-940-3500. 

ABOUT SELECTIVE INSURANCE GROUP, INC.

Selective Insurance Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SIGI) is a holding company for 10 property and casualty insurance companies rated "A+" (Superior) by AM Best. Through independent agents, the insurance companies offer standard and specialty insurance for commercial and personal risks and flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program's Write Your Own Program. Selective's unique position as both a leading insurance group and an employer of choice is recognized in a wide variety of awards and honors, including the Fortune 1000 and being named a Great Place to Work® in 2021. For more information about Selective, visit www.Selective.com. 

Media Contacts:

Jamie Beal
973-948-1234
jamie.beal@selective.com

Katelyn Leondi
973-948-9372
katelyn.leondi@selective.com