[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 152 (Wednesday, November 16, 2005)]
[Senate]
[Page S12946]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 GUIDEONE INSURANCE HONORED WITH ``PRINCIPAL 10 BEST COMPANIES'' AWARD

 Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, each year the Principal Financial 
Group shines a spotlight on companies across the United States that 
excel in providing for their employees' financial future, including a 
well-funded retirement. Selected by a blue-ribbon panel, these 
exemplary companies are honored with the Principal 10 Best Companies 
Award.
  This year, 1 of the 10 recipients of this prestigious award is 
GuideOne Insurance of West Des Moines, IA. GuideOne, which was founded 
in 1947, is one of the Nation's largest insurers of churches. It also 
insures faith-based private schools and colleges as well as not-for-
profit senior living communities.
  At a time when so many companies across the United States are cutting 
back--or completely eliminating--their employer-provided retirement 
benefits, GuideOne is charting a different course. The firm's 
executives believe that providing for their employees' financial future 
is critical to success in recruiting, retaining, and motivating an 
excellent staff.
  The 807 employees at GuideOne enjoy a generous benefit package, 
including a defined benefit pension plan; 100 percent employer-paid 
premiums for disability insurance; a 401(k) plan with 100 percent 
employer match up to 3 percent of pay; and health insurance that is 76 
percent employer-paid for employees, and 68 percent employer-paid for 
dependents. Nearly 85 percent of employees participate in the company's 
401(k) plan, which is remarkably high by national standards.
  To its great credit, the company is also concerned about the health 
of its employees. GuideOne has a robust wellness program that, among 
other things, reimburses employees $200 for fitness-related expenses.
  Mr. President, it is clear to me that GuideOne understands what too 
many companies in the United States have forgotten. GuideOne 
understands that its employees truly are its greatest asset and 
competitive strength, and that a generous benefit package is the way to 
attract and retain outstanding talent, while keeping morale and 
productivity high.
  So I congratulate GuideOne for the richly deserved honor of receiving 
the Principal 10 Best Companies Award, and I salute all the folks at 
GuideOne for setting an example of enlightened corporate stewardship. 
They are proving that it is possible to do well and do good at the same 
time. And I couldn't be more proud that this excellent company calls 
Iowa home.

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